Office space with a signature scent - how are flexible offices using fragrances to make a first impression and boost productivity?

When we think of great office design our first thought is usually the aesthetics of a building, but what about stimulating other senses?

First impressions count when choosing an office and that’s why co-working spaces and flexible offices are following in the footsteps of the retail and hospitality worlds by creating their own signature scent.

Fragrance in the office however can count for much more than first impressions. With productivity a priority for most businesses in the UK, features such as natural light, better air quality through the inclusion of plants, standing desks and meeting areas, open plan spaces, breakout areas and health and leisure facilities, have become standard across new offices. We are now seeing this being taken one step further with scent being used to create a more pleasant and productive working environment.

Smell is the strongest of our senses and can be a key influencer in our mood and productivity levels. It is therefore no surprise that employers, landlords and providers have recognised this and are looking to utilise scent in a bid to create a more productive workplace. In the flexible and serviced office arena in particular, we have also seen some providers such as Uncommon, The Ministry, Fora and Convene creating a signature scent as part of their overall brand recognition.

The emotive nature of smell and the subsequent impact that it can have means that it is vital that these providers choose a scent that emits a neutral tone that everyone will like and can identify with. Fragrances such as lavender, citrus and jasmine, which are reported to have properties that can relax, uplift and reduce stress, are often a popular choice.  For some, using different fragrances in different parts of the building, for example in the reception area and across the actual office space, has also proved successful.

Using a scent for branding and crafting an enjoyable atmosphere has already been a popular and successful trend across the retail, hotel and heath & fitness industries. It can create a sense of recognition, belonging and consistency as well as positively (or indeed negatively) affecting efficiency levels. In a sector where the end user is the key priority, it is inevitable that serviced and flexible offices have also begun to focus on smell as a means to boost brand identity and productivity across their centres and is a trend we expect to continue as the overall occupier experience remains pivotal.