
The Science Bit
We know that creativity is something that happens in the brain; many psychologists and neuroscientists have identified cognitive mechanisms and processes that are active during the creative process. However, many people still believe that creativity is a ?gift?. There are many studies that suggest that subtle cues in our physical environment significantly influence creative output.“Psychologist, Kurt Lewin in 1943 proposed that behaviour is ‘a function of both the person and the physical environment they are in.'”Creating a physical environment that puts people at ease and makes them feel relaxed and safe, will get the creative juices properly flowing. Here are some factors that can help you boost creativity in your workplace:
1. Familiar surroundings/territory

“The same goes for new or potential employees, think about the common areas of your office, do you want candidates to feel intimidated or exposed waiting for an interview sitting next to current employees who are getting on with their work?”Think about the kinds of people that will be entering your office, whether that’s full-time employees, freelancers, clients or candidates, you want to give them great first ? and lasting impressions of your office environment. Ensure it’s a place that looks and feels physically comfortable when people feel comfortable, and enjoy the aesthetics of a space, they will produce better work. Creating a welcoming, nice looking, and non-intimidating office environment will make the space feel more comfortable, and therefore more familiar for those who enter it.
2. Light
According to the Journal of Environmental Psychology, natural light fosters superior creativity as it encourages a feeling of freedom.“Natural light contains what is called ?blue light?. It boosts the immune system, increases dopamine levels and lowers cortisol levels.”This means that being in a naturally lit room with make you feel less anxious, happier and more productive.
3. Noise

“Ambient noise gets our creative juices flowing unlike silence, and doesn?t put us off like high levels of noise.”The theory is that when we struggle just enough to process things as we normally would, we resort to more creative approaches.
4. Temperature
A study at Cornell University in 2004 found that a stable temperature level actively encouraged better levels of concentration. The study concluded that a constant temperature of 20 degrees Celsius keeps people 44% more focussed on the task in hand than the usual optimal room temperature of 25 degrees Celsius.5. Colour

Going forward?
We, humans, are sensitive creatures. We are greatly influenced by what we see around us. With all the sensory and psychological factors at play when people enter a physical space, especially an office, why not make yours as pleasant as possible to ensure you have happy, creative and productive employees? Shelly Greenway is Partner and Strategist at The Strategy Distillery – a strategic brand innovation consultancy.Share this story