Ethonomics: Designing for the principles of the modern workplace.

So much of what we do everyday for our clients, whether we realized it or not,  follows the principles of "ethonomics".  Helping our clients design an effective workspace is a multi-layered process that interconnects to their health and emotional well being. 

Teknion's new upStage product line was designed using the priciples of Ethonomics.

To read the entire article by Teknion, click here.

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".....We are beginning to see a cultural shift—a new awareness of how deeply human and environmental health are connected. If we begin with a discussion of the lifestyle choices we make as individuals, we must consider three key features of the cultural landscape that influence our behaviors, our health and that of the natural world. These are technology,food and the urban environment.

Technology 

In terms of human health, we see that technology (i.e.,communications technology and in particular, mobile, high-tech gadgets), has engineered physical activity out of daily life. The result is a sedentary population with a high incidence of obesity and diseases related to lack of exercise.

Food

While healthy and affordable food is readily available to most people in North America, many forego a healthy diet and daily consume high-calorie processed foods that contribute to disease. At the same time, research reveals a significant trend toward selecting organic, locally produced ingredients and prepared foods—a shift that can have a positive effect on human health and the natural environment....."

".....The office is a place for creativity and collaboration, requiring spaces that support fluid and spontaneous interactions—but also quiet spaces that minimize noise and the potential for disruption when thinking, analyzing, writing and reading. People need a place to withdraw from the flow of activity and also want to control noise, especially related to what others can hear them say and what they hear other people say.

Creating workspaces that are inviting, comfortable and uplifting depends upon a skillful combination of materials, textures, patterns and colors. It is essential to choose materials that do not contain toxins or emit VOCs. Designers also choose materials for their sound-absorbing value, pleasing tactile qualities and the visual richness of color, pattern and texture. Beyond aesthetics, varied sensory stimulation can engage and energize people at work."