This study examined the relationship between workplace aesthetics and the effectiveness of public healthcare institutions in Rivers State, Nigeria. The research was driven by the growing recognition that the physical and sensory qualities of the work environment significantly shape employee performance, satisfaction, and overall organizational productivity—particularly in the public healthcare sector, where operational efficiency and service delivery are critical. Guided by the Person–Environment Fit Theory and the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) Model, the study conceptualized workplace aesthetics through two dimensions: ergonomic design (furniture, layout, tools, and equipment) and indoor environmental quality (lighting, temperature, ventilation, and acoustics). Employee effectiveness was examined using task efficiency and job satisfaction as performance indicators, while organizational culture was introduced as a moderating variable.

The study adopted a cross-sectional research design with a quantitative approach, collecting primary data through a structured, closed-ended questionnaire administered to healthcare professionals—including doctors, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and community health officers—across 58 public health centers in Port Harcourt, Obio/Akpor, and Ikwerre Local Government Areas. Using Taro Yamane’s formula, a sample size of 186 respondents was determined. Data analysis was conducted using Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS software to test the hypothesized relationships.

The findings revealed that both ergonomic design and indoor environmental quality had significant positive relationships with task efficiency and job satisfaction. The results underscored that a well-designed, comfortable, and visually appealing healthcare environment enhances employees’ psychological well-being, reduces fatigue, and improves performance outcomes. Furthermore, organizational culture was found to significantly moderate the relationship between workplace aesthetics and employee effectiveness, indicating that supportive and flexible cultures amplify the benefits of aesthetically optimized workspaces.

The study contributes theoretically by expanding the literature on organizational behavior and workplace design within the healthcare context, a sector previously underexplored in aesthetics-related research. Practically, it provides valuable insights for healthcare administrators, policymakers, and human resource practitioners on the importance of incorporating ergonomic and environmental design considerations into facility planning, maintenance, and management strategies. The study concludes that enhancing workplace aesthetics not only promotes employee satisfaction and efficiency but also strengthens institutional effectiveness and service quality across public healthcare organizations in Rivers State.

Keywords: Workplace aesthetics, Effectiveness, Public Health Care, Ergonomic design.