One-Third of Workers Struggle to Focus in the Office - but Experts Warn Home Working isn't the Answer

More than one in three workers say their workplace design does not allow them to focus effectively, according to new research, but experts are warning that abandoning the office altogether may not be the solution.

The survey of 503 Gen Z office workers, conducted by YouGov on behalf of Diamond Interiors, found that 34% do not feel their workplace design allows them to focus effectively, while 66% believe it does. See the Diamond Interiors Gen-Z Workplace Report here.

The findings come as a recent study published in Science suggested that remote working could contribute to increased loneliness and poorer mental health, particularly among employees who live alone.

While many workers continue to value the flexibility of working from home, workplace experts say employers should focus on creating office environments that support both concentration and collaboration rather than viewing remote work as the only answer.

Rebecca Waller, Head Of Design at Diamond Interiors, said:

"There's often a tendency to frame the conversation as office versus home working, but the reality is much more nuanced than that.

"Our research shows that a significant number of employees struggle to focus in their current workplace environment. However, simply moving everyone out of the office doesn't necessarily solve the problem, particularly when other research is highlighting the potential impact remote working can have on social connection and wellbeing.

"The most effective workplaces are those that recognize people work in different ways throughout the day. Employees need spaces where they can concentrate without distractions, but they also need opportunities to collaborate, learn from colleagues and build relationships."

Rebecca explained that many office environments were originally designed around maximizing desk space rather than supporting different working styles.

She said: "Open-plan offices can be fantastic for collaboration, but they can also create challenges when employees need to focus on complex tasks. Constant noise, interruptions and a lack of privacy can make concentration difficult.

"That's why we're seeing more businesses introduce quiet zones, private booths, breakout spaces and dedicated collaboration areas. The goal isn't to force everyone into one way of working, but to create environments that support a variety of tasks and preferences."

Rebecca added that workplace design can play an important role in supporting employee wellbeing as organizations continue to refine their hybrid working policies.

She said: "Many employees tell us they feel more productive at home because they have greater control over their environment. Employers should be asking how they can bring some of those benefits into the workplace rather than expecting people to simply adapt.

"The future of work is unlikely to be fully remote or fully office-based for most organizations. Instead, businesses that create workplaces people genuinely want to spend time in are likely to see the greatest benefits for both productivity and employee wellbeing."

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Diamond Interiors is a leading provider of commercial workspace solutions. We work with businesses of all shapes and sizes who are looking to refurbish their existing office, or move to new premises.