In the heart of the COVID-19 pandemic, as architects worldwide pivoted to remote work, a unique study emerged from the Instituto de Ciencias de la Construcción Eduardo Torroja, led by Teresa Cuerdo-Vilches. This research, published in ‘Anales de Edificación’ (Annals of Construction), delves into the experiences of young Mexican architects and architects during lockdown, revealing intriguing insights into how gender influences perceptions of the remote workspace.
The study, which involved 16 young architects and 14 young architects, employed a novel method called visual-emotional analysis. This approach combines the evaluation of images with the emotional sentiments expressed in written testimonies, providing a rich, multi-dimensional perspective on the architects’ experiences. “We wanted to understand not just what they were doing, but how they were feeling about it,” Cuerdo-Vilches explains. “The visual-emotional analysis allowed us to capture both the tangible and intangible aspects of their remote workspaces.”
One of the most striking findings was the difference in how men and women described their workspaces. Women tended to provide more detailed descriptions, focusing on specific characteristics such as lighting and space distribution. “The lighting in my workspace is crucial,” one participant noted. “It has to be just right for me to feel comfortable and focused.” In contrast, men often emphasized functionality and comfort, with fewer details about the specific elements of their workspaces.
This gendered difference in perception has significant implications for the future of remote work in the architecture sector. As companies continue to adopt flexible work arrangements, understanding these nuances can help in designing more inclusive and productive remote work environments. For example, companies could invest in ergonomic furniture and adjustable lighting solutions to cater to the diverse needs of their employees.
Moreover, the findings suggest that the architecture industry could benefit from a more nuanced approach to workspace design, one that takes into account the emotional and psychological aspects of the work environment. This could lead to the development of new design standards and guidelines that prioritize the well-being of employees, ultimately enhancing productivity and job satisfaction.
The study also highlights the importance of emotional well-being in the remote work setting. As Cuerdo-Vilches points out, “The emotional aspect of the workspace is just as important as the physical aspect. Companies need to recognize this and provide support for their employees’ emotional well-being.”
The research, published in the ‘Annals of Construction’, underscores the need for a more holistic approach to remote work. By understanding the emotional and gendered dimensions of the workspace, companies can create more effective and inclusive remote work environments. This, in turn, could lead to better job satisfaction, increased productivity, and a more resilient workforce in the face of future challenges.