A forest floor for the office

03.03.2010

We walk all over it, cover it in dirt, mistreat and ignore it. Usually, the only time we notice it is when it has become unsightly – the humble floor. And yet, it has so many important functions: its surface has a major influence on indoor climate, acoustics, aesthetics and, not least, our individual experience of walking on it. Now, at the international furnishing show ‘imm Cologne’, a new carpeting material was introduced that provides a completely new walking and standing experience. Developed by Bayer MaterialScience on a polyurethane foam basis in combination with a special textile material, this visco-elastic carpet feels just like walking on soft moss. Aptly named PURE MOSS, the carpet is marketed by kymo GmbH in Karlsruhe.
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Ever since Frank Schirrmacher, publisher of the FAZ, released his book Payback, there’s been intense debate in Germany about the effects of the Internet and the consequences of the digital revolution. While Schirrmacher’s arguments, in typically German fashion, tend towards scare-mongering and cultural pessimism – we are all becoming subjugated by Google and its ilk! – other leading thinkers see the potential for a brighter future.
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Tiredness in the office is not a popular topic. Office workers are generally expected to be fully awake and in top form at all times. Yet, tasks are becoming increasingly complex, workloads are mounting and, especially during a recession, staff shortages as a result of cost saving measures are common. It is not surprising then that many workers are stressed and tired. But it is not something you talk about. Feeling tired and exhausted does not fit with the values of a highly performance-oriented society. Falling asleep at work is frowned upon. Constant mental alertness and focused attention is the expected norm. However, in order to cope with the increasing demands at work, people need sufficient sleep – and not just at home. A short afternoon nap – now often referred to as a “power nap” – refreshes and energises, enhancing performance and productivity.
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König + Neurath is one of the best architectural consultants
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Our everyday lives are dominated by sitting. We sit down at the breakfast table, we sit at our desk in the office, we sit in meetings and on planes, we sit in waiting rooms and in the car, and when we get home in the evening we sit down in front of the TV. At the same time we live in a highly mobile society and are constantly on the move, in virtual as well as in real space – but most of the time in a seated position. It does seem ironic that we are moving around the world so much, and yet our bodies suffer because of our lack of physical movement. The effects on our health are alarming: heart disease, high blood pressure and obesity all contribute to shortening life expectancy.
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