Recent research in organisation science and knowledge management has increasingly focused on spatial support for knowledge-intensive forms of work. New typologies like coworking spaces, fablabs and open maker spaces indicate that breakthrough ideas may appear in spaces which facilitate creativity and innovation through design features. However, there are no rigorous studies nor methodological frameworks that bring together aspects of spatial design with organisational output. – Addressing this demand, the paper presents the methodology for the living lab experiment with the so-called Innovation Shed (iSheds) – a number of small work spaces that were purposefully implemented on TU Dresden campus to probe the influence of spatial environment on knowledge work performance in the field of scientific research. Referring to research in work psychology and environmental psychology, the article discusses the theoretical background for the ongoing experiment and introduces the factors of ‘sense of belonging’ and ‘personal control’ as key influences on worker´s performance, satisfaction, and commitment. Hypothesis is that factors can be directly related and influenced by architectural and environmental qualities – thus opening up a methodical path how to impact knowledge work through appropriately designed work environments.