Staying cool in the heat

With warmer weather featuring heavily across the UK this summer, our attention at MM HQ has turned to one very important question: how do we stay cool in the office without compromising on good design?

For us, staying cool is about much more than simply turning up the air conditioning. When designing workplace environments, there are plenty of ways to create a cooler, more comfortable space while still keeping aesthetics and wellbeing firmly in mind.

BRING IN BIOPHILIC DESIGN

Biophilia in the workplace

Plants can provide shade, support heat absorption and introduce a natural sense of coolness to a workspace.

THINK ABOUT AIRFLOW

Dyson fan

Gingko desk fan

Good ventilation and considered air movement can make a significant difference to comfort, particularly during warmer periods.

CONSIDER YOUR COLOUR PALETTE

Cool summer palettes

Cooler, lighter tones can help create a visual sense of calm and freshness, contributing to a more comfortable-feeling environment.

CHOOSE BREATHABLE FURNITURE

Mesh task chairs

Mesh task chairs and breathable materials can help improve air circulation and comfort for those spending long hours at their desks.

KEEP HYDRATION CLOSE AT HAND

Ice-cold water taps

A well-positioned, accessible supply of cool drinking water is a simple but essential consideration for any summer workplace.

MAKE THE MOST OF SOLAR CONTROL

Automated solar blinds

Innovative solar fabrics, blinds and window treatments can help manage solar gain and glare while adding another layer of design to the space.

As designers, we’re always thinking about the relationship between aesthetic environment and human comfort. And when temperatures rise, thoughtful workplace design can play a surprisingly important role in helping people feel cooler, calmer and more comfortable.
So, as we embrace the warmer weather, perhaps the question isn’t just how do we keep cool? But how can good design help us keep our cool?