Office environments that inspire employees and clients alike are, it seems, few and far between these days. The majority of us work in dull and depressing places; these environments consist of blue carpet tiles with yellow fluorescent lighting and our days are spent hiding behind computer screens with the blinds down trying to shut out any natural light that might just manage to creep in.

As our working habits change and become more flexible so should the environments that we work in. Too many offices are uninspiring and soulless in their presentation. Through clever design, staff productivity and motivation can be increased which in turn would improve their efficiency and that of the business.

The problem, it seems, is that employers struggle to see the benefit of investing in their work place environments because they do not see any tangible return. By making such an investment you are not only investing in a physical space but also in the people that you employ - people need to be inspired and take pride in what they are involved with.

Your offices are also a reflection of your company, how you wish to be perceived to the outside world and by your clients. They are a physical representation of your brand and your values that have the power to engage clients and enthuse them.

Obviously there is an economic viewpoint and any office move or refurbishment can take significant resources and finance. But why not restructure and reorganise to use the space more resourcefully in order to become more productive?

By developing a strong 3D architectural language and through an intelligent use of space and furniture elements cost savings can be made, company efficiency increased and morale improved. Add to this the fact that your clients will be reassured that you are cost savvy and progressive then it's surely worth considering.

PW have successfully designed and implemented workplace environments for BlackBerry, The Engine Group, Cartoon Network, Mazda and Yahoo!