In the heart of Egypt, a groundbreaking study is shedding light on how the design of office buildings can significantly impact employee well-being and productivity. Led by Khadija Shakra from the Department of Architectural Construction Technology at Beni Suef University, this research is the first of its kind to delve deeply into the post-occupancy evaluation (POE) of engineering offices in Egypt. Published in the Journal of Engineering Sciences (مجلة العلوم الهندسية), the study is set to reshape how we think about workplace design and its commercial implications.
Shakra’s research focuses on two key office buildings, meticulously examining how various design elements influence occupant experiences and work outcomes. “The impact of interior design on employee well-being and productivity in Egyptian engineering offices has been largely overlooked,” Shakra explains. “Our study aims to bridge this gap by providing actionable insights that can optimize office environments.”
The study employs a comprehensive POE methodology, gathering data through surveys, interviews, and thorough walkthrough evaluations. Preliminary findings reveal that architectural design plays a pivotal role in visual relief and spatial comfort. Natural light and proper ventilation emerge as critical factors in enhancing occupants’ well-being and productivity. “The importance of thoughtful interior design cannot be overstated,” Shakra emphasizes. “It fosters conducive work environments that can significantly boost employee performance.”
For the energy sector, these findings hold substantial commercial potential. By optimizing indoor environmental quality, companies can reduce energy consumption and improve occupant satisfaction, leading to a more productive workforce. “This research advocates for further POE studies to refine workplace design practices specific to the Egyptian context,” Shakra notes. “The insights gained can drive innovation in building design and energy efficiency.”
As the world increasingly focuses on sustainable and human-centric design, Shakra’s research offers a timely and valuable contribution. By highlighting the role of POE in improving office building environments, this study paves the way for future developments in workplace design, benefiting both employees and businesses alike. The findings not only underscore the importance of natural light and ventilation but also emphasize the need for ongoing research to tailor design practices to specific regional contexts.