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By: Monika Devi.
Student, Department of Architecture and Planning, Amity School of Planning and Architecture, Amity University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
Modern I.T. professionals often work long, irregular hours, seated for extended periods while managing deadlines, virtual meetings, and continuous digital interruptions. As homes increasingly function as hybrid workplaces, most residential interiors remain ill-equipped for this dual role, characterized by compact layouts, standardized furniture, inadequate lighting, and a lack of spaces for psychological detachment. This research advocates for adaptive and human-centered interior environments that promote physical comfort, mental well-being, and flexible daily routines. Adopting a mixed-method approach, the study integrates surveys and semi-structured interviews with I.T. professionals, in-depth case studies of compact urban apartments, spatial mapping of activity patterns, and iterative design prototyping. The research investigates how design interventions—such as modular and ergonomic furniture systems, optimized daylighting strategies, improved acoustic conditions, incorporation of indoor greenery, and the use of intuitive smart controls—can enhance productivity while reducing stress and fatigue. The study foregrounds lived experiences, highlighting diverse user scenarios: a developer struggling to find a distraction-free workspace, an engineer whose bedroom transforms into a night-shift office, and a working parent balancing professional responsibilities with domestic demands. These narratives inform design responses that prioritize adaptability, zoning, and multi-functionality without compromising comfort or identity. The findings suggest that even within spatial constraints, thoughtful design strategies can significantly improve the quality of work-life integration. By reimagining residential interiors as dynamic, responsive environments, this research contributes to the broader discourse on post-pandemic living and the future of workspaces. It emphasizes the need for interiors that not only accommodate professional tasks but also restore balance, support well-being, and enhance overall user experience.
Keywords: Adaptive living spaces, hybrid work environments, occupational stress, human-centered design, biophilic interiors
Citation:
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