What impact do flexible workspaces have on employee well-being?

The need for flexibility in the workplace is now an inescapable reality in the professional sphere. Workspaces are designed to offer a wide choice of possibilities, and meet the needs of collaboration, concentration and exchange. In 2024, however, the use of these spaces is being reinforced by the question of employee well-being, in a context where the challenges relating to the mental health of young people and workers is key. Santé Mentale France has also launched a petition to make mental health the great national cause of 2025. A number of findings are emerging in the world of work, and the question of wellbeing, while based on many criteria, does indeed encompass the issue of flexible working. Ready to discover how these changes can not only shake up our work habits, but also offer a welcome boost to our physical well-being? Enter the world of flexible spaces and all they have to offer!

A changing perception of flexible spaces

In recent years, flexible workspaces have become a major trend in the professional world. So much so that IWG, in one of its latest studies, revealed that 44% of French companies had already reduced the surface area of their traditional offices by a quarter in favor of flexible workspaces.

These environments, characterized by the absence of fixed desks and the ability for employees to choose where and how to work each day, have thus been adopted by many companies around the world.

"Companies that proactively adopt flexible workspace designs are seeing significant improvements not only in productivity, but also in dynamism and innovation. "Tanguy Polet, CEO of Swiss Life France, told Maddyness last February.

But beyond their impact on productivity and collaboration, these spaces also have a significant effect on employees' physical well-being. Architect Franklin Azzi explains that "to achieve this, we need to rethink the layout of workspaces and employee reception areas, if we are to best reconcile individual and collective performance, and ultimately, their well-being.

What is a flexible workspace?

A flexible workspace is an environment designed to adapt to employees' needs and preferences. It offers a variety of options for working comfortably and efficiently, with modular spaces, relaxation areas and collaborative spaces. Employees can choose the place where they feel most comfortable to accomplish their tasks.

>>> Discover flexible workspaces in France

Postural diversity and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders

When it comes to well-being and wellness, companies today are on the hunt for sedentary l ifestyles, and admit they want to play a role in prevention.

One of the main advantages of flexible workspaces is the diversity of postures they encourage. In a traditional office, employees are often confined to a single position for long hours, which can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as back and neck pain. In contrast, flexible spaces offer a variety of seating and workstations - standing desks, ergonomic chairs, relaxation zones with poufs or sofas - enabling employees to change posture regularly. These frequent changes can reduce the strain on muscles and joints, minimizing the risk of RSI.

Encouraging physical activity in flexible workspaces

And just because it's Olympic year doesn't mean we're telling you so! Flexible workspaces also encourage physical activity. Many companies incorporate facilities such as gyms or outdoor areas designed for walking and exercise. The absence of a dedicated office also encourages employees to move around more often in search of a new place to set up, whether for an informal meeting or simply to vary their working environment. These additional movements, however minor they may seem, help to increase the level of daily physical activity, thereby improving cardiovascular health and reducing the risks associated with excessive sedentariness.

Reducing stress and improving mental health

Well-being is closely linked to mental health. The 14th Malakoff Humanis barometer on " employee health and quality of life at work in 2023 "also clearly illustrates the fact that for 70% of employees, i.e. a very large majority, poor mental health is detrimental to their work, and notes that 44% of women and 32% of men reported poor mental health. A staggering finding!

Flexible workspaces are often designed to be more visually pleasing and stimulating, with bright colors, plants and artwork. These elements can help reduce stress and create a more relaxed environment. Furthermore, flexibility enables employees to work in conditions that suit them better, whether in a quiet corner to concentrate, or in an open space to encourage social interaction. A reduction in stress has direct positive effects on physical health, notably by lowering blood pressure and boosting the immune system.

All in all, flexible workspaces offer numerous advantages for the physical well-being of employees. By promoting a variety of postures, encouraging physical activity and reducing stress, these environments help to create healthier, more comfortable working conditions. As more and more companies adopt these layouts, it is essential to continue evaluating and optimizing these spaces to maximize their positive impact on employee health and well-being.