Do unconventional workspaces promote creativity?
It is widely assumed that unconventionally-designed offices stimulate creativity. But that isn’t always the case – sometimes they may even impede innovation.
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GOOGLE and Facebook are famous for their unique workspaces, with design features including open floorplans, themed breakout pods and meeting rooms, playgrounds, games rooms and even sleeping pods. But the tech giants are not the only companies to have ditched traditional desks and cubicles for unusual workspaces.
The unconventional office trend is rising, driven by the belief that alternative working areas stimulate creativity. Such workspaces are also thought to attract certain employees, especially those who are inherently more creative. But can these alternative spaces inspire creative thinking, or do they just attract divergent thinkers?
While research has shown that distractions facilitate creative problem solving and mood states influence creativity, there is no empirical evidence on the direct effect of unconventional workspaces on creativity.
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