How user experience design principles can transform office environments and create spaces people actually want to use
In a recent episode of the Flex for Thought series, part of the JLL Perspectives podcast, host Tashi Dorjee, Head of Flex at JLL, spoke with Charbel Zeaiter, Founder of Faster Zebra about applying user experience principles to physical office spaces. Their conversation revealed key insights for workplace professionals looking to create more engaging, purposeful environments.
Observe before designing
The most powerful approach to workspace design begins with careful observation. "The more powerful thing is to be in the space and observe for a while," notes Zeaiter. referencing a 1960s architect who would delay landscaping newly built properties to study where people naturally walked - turning these paths into permanent features.
Prototype and test
Rather than committing to permanent designs, the conversation highlighted the value of quick prototyping and testing. "What's the cheapest, quickest thing you could do to test whether the idea works?". This approach allows building owners to gather real user feedback before making substantial investments.
Treat spaces as "events"
One of the most compelling insights was reconceptualising office spaces as event venues that serve different purposes at different times:
- Deep work zones for focused productivity
- Collaborative areas for meetings and discussions
- Creative spaces with whiteboards and tools for ideation
- Media rooms for content creation
- Remove friction
The key to encouraging creativity and productivity is removing barriers. As Dorjee suggests, "If you take away the friction, I think ideas and creativity flows." This might mean creating purpose-built spaces that are ready to use without extensive setup.
Consider tech-free zones
With people spending an average of 7.5 hours daily on smartphones, the podcast revealed an emerging trend: deliberate disconnection. "People are going to actively look for spaces where they can disconnect from their devices," predicts Zeaiter - something workplace designers should consider incorporating.
Listen to the full conversation on the JLL Perspectives podcast to explore how applying UX principles can transform your workspace into a more human-centered, productive environment.