New research by Corgan and the University of Arkansas provides neuroscience-based evidence that design strategies can measurably influence attention and cognitive performance.

The research used EEG technology, behavioral observation, and participant feedback to assess the impact of various environmental conditions on individuals with inattentive-type ADHD.

The findings are also applicable to the effect of office design on all workers, researchers say.

Key findings include:

• Lighting shapes cognitive performance. Participants reported feeling calmer, less stressed, and more focused under dimmer, indirect lighting, while bright, direct lighting increased distraction and eye strain.
• Balancing visibility and enclosure supports long-term focus. Participants whose backs faced activity reported 67% greater feelings of insecurity, despite reporting higher concentration. In contrast, open office layouts that provided visual boundaries without complete isolation produced the lowest measured cognitive load.
• Movement in moderation supports focus. Testing of sit-stand desks, footrests, and yoga ball seating found that brief posture changes supported comfort and attention, while continuous or exaggerated movement reduced comfort and perceived focus.
• Sensory balance enhances attention. Environmental interventions including lighting, acoustic hoods, and scent showed that attention is influenced by the overall sensory experience rather than a single factor.  

“Collectively, the findings underscore that attention is best supported through balanced, adaptable settings that allow people to regulate stimulation, effort, and recovery across tasks and time,” researchers say.