The influence of physical office environments on physiological stress: A PRISMA systematic scoping review

Previous research suggests a potential link between physical office environments and psychological stress, but the relationship with physiological stress biomarkers remains underexplored. This systematic scoping review, conducted using PRISMA guidelines, analysed 33 studies across four databases to examine how physical office design influences physiological stress responses. Physical office design was categorized into explicit design elements, such as biophilic features and workstation layouts; and tacit, atmospheric qualities, such as relaxed and natural environments. The included studies assessed physiological stress through a range of biomarkers spanning multiple biological systems, including autonomic measures (e.g., heart rate variability, electrodermal activity), endocrine markers (e.g., cortisol, salivary alpha-amylase), immune parameters (e.g., cytokine levels, immunoglobulin concentrations), and neurological indicators (e.g., brain activity measured through EEG or fNIRS). This review highlights: (1) inconsistent evidence and variability in paper quality, (2) a narrow focus on a limited range of workplace design characteristics, (3) a lack of consistency and replicability in outcome measures, (4) methodological complexity stemming from the novel and interdisciplinary nature of stress physiology and workplace design, (5) limited evaluation of tacit workplace design characteristics, and (6) minimal consideration of the potentially mediating influence of sensory perception across different sensory modalities on physiological stress effects. Initial evidence highlights that specific aspects of workstation design may influence physiological stress responses; however, these findings are constrained by methodological inconsistencies, thereby hindering generalizability. Advancing knowledge in this field is critical for designing workplaces that effectively manage physiological stress, promote well-being, and support holistic employee health. • Systematic review of 33 studies on office design and physiological stress • Flowers and natural views consistently reduce physiological stress biomarkers • Tacit and sensory design features are critically underexplored in current research • Interpreting physiological stress in office workplace research demands transdisciplinary methods to address measurement complexity and inform robust, ecologically valid study designs • Findings reveal methodological limitations and highlight need for standardised protocols to replicate and clarify influence of office environment on physiological stress