A well-designed office environment can make a big difference whether you are refurnishing an old office or setting up a brand new one. Office furniture can be an integral part of creating an attractive and productive working environment. It is essential to have a floor plan that facilitates communication and collaboration, as well as identifying private zones for clients and delegating secluded private rooms for meetings. The process, however, is not as simple as buying office furniture. There are several considerations that inexperienced buyers may overlook—small mistakes that can cost money.
1. Size Matters
Many new buyers make the mistake of eyeballing their floor plan. That benching unit is fine, and you can easily fit those items in your breakout space; however, are you certain that workbench won’t impede traffic? Or that you can adequately space those tables without blocking nearby doorways? In addition, you’ll need to know how long the hallways and stairwells are so you can deliver your pieces efficiently, as well as how furniture will affect lighting, air circulation, and electrical and data locations.
It makes all the difference between an efficient, sleek workspace and one that is hastily thrown together and constantly redesigned.
2. Growth and Quantity
As your company grows, so too will your office space requirements. Failing to properly plan for this growth can result in costly mistakes. In order to effectively anticipate the needs of a growing workforce, it is important to have flexible workspaces and a versatile floor plan that can accommodate a 5% to 10% growth. This means that the office layout should be able to easily adapt to changing needs, without requiring significant redesigning or reconstruction.
3. Colour Mismatching
When it comes to designing an office space, choosing the right colours for your furniture is crucial. While it may seem like a good idea to match your grey chair with your grey desk, it’s important to pay attention to the specific shades of grey you’re working with. If one is more of a charcoal colour and the other has a greenish tint, the mismatched colours can make your office look outdated and poorly designed. As the great Picasso once said, “Colours, like features, follow the changes of the emotions.” So, take the time to carefully choose your furniture colours and make sure they complement each other for a cohesive and professional look.
4. Cheap Purchases
Undertaking an office furnishing project is a major task, and cutting costs by opting for budget options is a risky move. Lower quality pieces can wear out or get damaged quickly, causing communication difficulties, discomfort for employees, and a negative impression on visitors. Investing in custom, high-quality furniture is the smart choice for your business, as it leads to increased productivity, better talent recruitment and retention, and improved branding. Don’t compromise on the quality of your office furniture and invest in the best for your business’s success.
5. Adaptable Environments
If you desire to maintain a well-functioning workplace, it is crucial to be attentive to the needs of your employees. It would be unwise to persist with an office layout that no longer works for them, as it could potentially hinder their productivity and overall satisfaction. Therefore, it is imperative to remain open to change and willing to adapt to suit the needs of your team members in a flexible and mobile workspace. By doing so, you can ensure a happy and productive working environment for all.
In conclusion, it is crucial to not underestimate the importance of proper planning when it comes to designing your office space. By taking the time to carefully consider various factors, such as furniture placement and future growth potential, you can create an environment that is both functional and conducive to productivity.
