Ever walked into an office and felt instantly energised and focused? Or the opposite—drained and distracted before you’ve even sat down? The design of your office has a huge impact on how you feel and perform each day. This is the core idea and principle behind Feng Shui—it’s a practice focused on creating balance and energy flow to build an environment that supports focus, collaboration, and overall well-being.
As hybrid work and flexible setups become the new norm in Australia, more businesses are seeing how thoughtful office design can make a real difference. A workspace that feels open and energised doesn't just boost productivity; it also improves morale and creativity.
Coworking spaces, in particular, benefit from these principles. By weaving in elements like natural light, greenery, and clear flow between areas, a shared office for teams and individuals can feel less like a temporary spot and more like a place where great work happens.
Core principles of office Feng Shui
While Feng Shui is an ancient practice, its principles are surprisingly practical for any modern office. Here are the core ideas to keep in mind:
1. The commanding position
This principle is about positioning yourself to reduce subconscious stress. Ideally, your desk should face the entrance of the room (without being directly in line with it), so you can see who is coming and going. This promotes a sense of security and control, allowing your mind to focus more deeply on tasks.
2. The concept of clutter
In Feng Shui, clutter represents postponed decisions and stagnant energy. A messy desk or a crowded room can block the flow of positive energy, leading to mental fog and increased stress. The principle is that a clear space promotes clear thinking.
3. The principle of balance with natural elements
The idea is about achieving balance, often expressed through the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. The goal is simply to create a varied and harmonious environment. A simple way to do this is by incorporating natural touches that represent these elements. For example:
- Wood: A small plant, wooden desk accessories, or the desk itself.
- Fire: Warm, ambient lighting from a desk lamp.
- Earth: Stone or ceramic items like a mug, a coaster, or a small pottery piece.
- Metal: Sleek metal desk organisers, a lamp, or photo frames.
- Water: A small, quiet desktop fountain or even an image of a calming water scene.
4. Light and airflow
Natural light and fresh air are essential for good energy. Bright, airy spaces lift your mood, while stuffy, poorly lit rooms can be draining. Positioning your desk near a window or adding indoor plants can instantly improve the feel of a space.
5. Flow and movement
Energy, like people, needs to move freely through spaces. The principle of flow focuses on ensuring that pathways are open and easy to navigate. Cramped layouts or blocked doorways can create a subconscious feeling of frustration and being "stuck."
Practical tips for applying Feng Shui in the office
You don’t need a complete overhaul to benefit from these principles. Here are some simple, practical tips you can apply in your workspace today:
- Position your desk strategically: If you can, arrange your desk so you have a clear view of the door. If you’re facing a wall, a simple hack is to place a small, decorative mirror on your desk to expand your view and see who might be approaching from behind.
- Keep your work area uncluttered: Dedicate five minutes at the end of each day to clear your desk and organise papers. Use simple tools like drawer organisers, vertical file holders, and cable managers to keep surfaces tidy and maintain a sense of calm.
- Bring in some greenery: Adding a low-maintenance plant like a Snake Plant, Zanzibar Gem, or Peace Lily is one of the easiest ways to improve your office’s energy. Plants purify the air and add a calming, natural element to your desk.
- Maximise your lighting: Open the blinds every morning to let in as much natural daylight as possible. If your area is dark, supplement the overhead lights with a personal desk lamp that has a warm, adjustable light to reduce eye strain and create a cosier atmosphere.
- Ensure easy movement: Check that the walkways around your desk are clear and that doors can open fully. Even on a small scale, try to create defined zones on your desk for your computer, writing space, and personal items to create a sense of order and flow.
How The Work Project provides the ideal work environment
At The Work Project Australia, many of these feng shui principles are already built into the design of our coworking spaces and private office spaces in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Every detail is thoughtfully considered to create environments where people feel energised, focused, and inspired.
- Ergonomic and strategic layouts: Workstations are arranged to encourage flow, comfort, and productivity.
- Abundant natural light: Our spaces are designed with open layouts and large windows to maximise natural light and air circulation.
- Premium finishes and greenery: From modern furnishings to curated indoor plants, the interiors bring warmth and balance to the workday.
- Dedicated zones: Whether you need a quiet corner for deep work, a collaborative area for brainstorming, or stylish meeting rooms, our spaces support every work mode.
- A welcoming atmosphere: More than just desks, our coworking environments encourage connection and creativity—key aspects of positive energy at work.
Enjoy a productive work sanctuary with The Work Project
A stylish and spacious office lounge featuring comfortable armchairs, a red telephone booth for private calls, and large windows with a city view.
Office feng shui is about creating a space that feels good to work in and helps people perform at their best. Whether it’s a simple desk reorganisation, adding a few plants, or finding a workspace designed with these principles in mind, the difference is tangible.
For businesses, freelancers, and professionals in Australia, a well-balanced office layout can be the foundation for success. And if you’re looking for a space that already blends design, functionality, and positive energy, The Work Project Australia offers premium coworking and private office solutions at prime locations that make it easy to thrive. Book an office tour today!
