The atmosphere of an office directly affects productivity, employee well-being, and clients' first impressions. And the sense of smell is the most overlooked element in workspace design.
Data on smell and productivity
• 57% of people believe that office buildings with bad odors create a negative perception.
• Studies from Northumbria University showed that the scent of lemon improves concentration by 54%.
• Lavender reduces the frequency of errors in repetitive tasks.
• Peppermint increases alertness and mental energy.
• Rosemary improves memory and cognitive performance.
The most frequent odor problems in offices
Kitchen and coffee area
The break area with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee machines is the main source of odors in an office. Smells of heated food accumulate and spread throughout the workspace.
Restrooms
As in any public space, office restrooms are the most critical point. And they are frequently used by clients and candidates during visits—with the impact that has on the company's perception.
Meeting rooms
Meeting rooms without adequate ventilation accumulate the smell of people, coffee, and paper. In a sales meeting or a job interview, entering a meeting room that smells stuffy subconsciously creates a negative perception of the interlocutor.
The olfactory strategy for offices
The goal in an office is twofold: to create a pleasant atmosphere that improves well-being and productivity, and to manage critical odor points. The most effective strategy combines stimulating aromas in work areas—citrus, mint—with neutralizers in problematic areas—kitchen, restrooms—and inviting aromas in meeting rooms and reception areas.
At BENDIS, we design and install the complete system for your office. Free device. Installation in 15 minutes per zone. From €39.99/month VAT included.
