Workplace Makers

March 25, 2024

Why round rooms are the next thing in clever workplace design - Dr. Oliver Baumann

<p>What&apos;s the connection between space and memory? Dr. Oliver Baumann has spent some time studying the intricate relationship between space and psychology, including memory.<br/>Doing so led him to an interest in the effect of space on creativity, wellbeing and productivity. <br/>In research<a href='https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28340'> just published</a>, a clear link has been established between the shape of a workspace and the creativity that people can experience there. Round rooms make people more creative. <br/>Utilising innovative methods like virtual reality (VR), he and his colleague systematically investigated how the shape of spaces influences subjective well-being, creative output, and physiological arousal. His findings reveal that rounded environments have the potential to foster collaboration and stimulate innovative thinking.<br/>Practical applications of Dr. Baumann&apos;s insights extend to modern office settings, where round rooms serve as dedicated hubs for problem-solving and creative endeavours. <br/>If you&apos;re a leader in an organisation striving to optimise your workspace, this conversation with Dr. Oliver Baumann promises to be both enlightening and transformative.<br/>- Nina<br/><br/><b>Key moments</b></p><p><b>00:00:48 -</b> Dr. Baumann discusses his transition from studying brain functions to investigating the effects of the built and natural environment on mood, behavior, and cognition.</p><p><b>00:01:53</b> - The evolutionary roots of spatial memory and its importance for survival</p><p><b>00:03:53 -</b> Interior design goes beyond decoration, aiming to enhance well-being, minimise stress, and optimise productivity</p><p><b>00:05:55 -</b> Dr. Baumann introduces his research on the impact of round rooms on creativity and the significant improvements observed in subjective well-being, creative output, and physiological arousal.</p><p><b>00:07:27</b> - Potential reasons for the positive effects of round rooms</p><p><b>00:10:01</b> - Practical applications of round room insights in modern offices, enhancing both individual and collaborative work processes.</p><p><b>00:14:29</b> - Examples of organisations implementing round rooms for creative thinking</p><p><b>00:15:41 -</b> Potential limitations of round rooms, emphasising the importance of autonomy and functionality in space design</p><p><b>00:17:03 -</b> The universal preference for round shapes</p><p><b>00:18:02 -</b> Modern construction techniques and data-driven approaches can make round rooms more feasible and efficient.</p><p><b>00:19:48 -</b> The importance of designing spaces that prioritize human comfort and well-being</p><p><b>00:22:39 -</b> The significance of nature and organic shapes in creating human-centered spaces</p><p><b>00:23:00 -</b> Some of Dr. Baumann&apos;s favourite food.<br/><br/><b>Resources and contact details<br/><br/></b><a href='https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28340'>Published article</a> [open access] - &quot;The impact of room shape on affective states, heartrate, and creative output&quot;, K. Strachan-Regan and O. Baumann, 17 March 2024</p><p>Dr Oliver Baumann at <a href='https://bond.edu.au/profile/oliver-baumann'>Bond University</a></p><p>Find more episodes here: <a href='https://theworkspaceconnection.com/podcast'>https://theworkspaceconnection.com/podcast</a> <br/><br/>Workplace Makers is hosted and produced by Nina Fountain and team. To contact us about the podcast, email podcast@theworkspaceconnection.com <br/><br/>Connect with Nina on <a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninafountain/'>LinkedIn</a><br/><br/>Nina is the Founder and Workplace Strategist at The Workspace Connection. Follow the link to book a free consultation call &gt;&gt; <a href='https://www.theworkspaceconnection.com/information-call%20'>https://www.theworkspaceconnection.com/information-call </a></p>