Inspiration Office: Improving focus in the workplace

How long can you really focus?

Our ability to sustain attention has declined significantly in recent years – by more than 30% over the past two decades, with the average person now able to maintain focus for just 47 seconds. While casual conversations once ranked as the most disruptive workplace noise, today’s open-plan offices and back-to-back virtual meetings have introduced even greater challenges.

D. Graham Burnett, founder of the Institute for Sustained Attention, describes this phenomenon as the “fracking of our brains.” Constant notifications, background chatter, ringtones, and wearable tech compete relentlessly for our attention. 

According to global research by Steelcase, a leader in office furniture solutions, nearly two-thirds of employees report that workplace noise interferes with their ability to concentrate. Even remote work is no guarantee of focus, as household responsibilities, family members, and pets can all contribute to distractions.

This decline in attention carries real consequences. Not only does it impact performance, but it also affects overall well-being. One key factor is the “switch cost” – the mental effort required to reorient oneself after an interruption. Each shift in focus slows down productivity and increases cognitive load.

There are, however, strategies for regaining control, says Steelcase, noting that organisations are beginning to recognise the importance of designing for attention. Some have introduced meeting-free days or quiet hours, while others use AI tools to help employees by blocking off time for focused work and silencing unnecessary alerts. 

The physical environment plays a critical role. Visual and auditory stimuli can be overwhelming, so features such as partitions, acoustic treatments, and even plants can help reduce distractions. Providing individuals with the ability to personalise and control their space fosters a sense of territorial privacy and psychological safety, both of which are essential for maintaining focus.

Designing spaces that support attention involves more than aesthetics. It requires thoughtful consideration of how people use the space, what they need to accomplish, and how you want them to feel while they’re there. Acoustic characteristics, layout variety, and environmental control all contribute to creating a workplace where individuals can truly thrive.

Steelcase offers a range of smart solutions for more productive workspaces, including space division products, workstations, and more.

Steelcase is locally available from Inspiration Office, South Africa’s leading office furniture supplier and bespoke workplace solutions specialist. Founded in 2005, the company operates in Johannesburg and Cape Town, offering a remarkable selection of award-winning smart furniture and accessories from top international brands like Steelcase, Orangebox, and PolyVision – perfect for streamlining your office and workday.

Contact: Inspiration office

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