Photo by cottonbro studio:
If you are going to ask anyone about office furniture and design, it would be an established commercial fitout contractor, a company that creates unique working environments for their clients. We did just that and here is a list of top tips we received.
- Set a budget – If you don’t set a limit to the amount you are prepared to invest, you will likely end up spending far more than you should. The first thing a fitout contractor wants to know is the budget, so do sit down and consider how much you are prepared to put into the office revamp.
- Standing desks work – Using a standing desk enables you to be mobile and fully adjustable height caters for everyone. The online supplier of office furniture has a diverse selection of styles, with single side and double standing desks that come with an optional black background screen.
- Involve the office staff – It makes total sense to invite your office workers to discuss furniture and every other aspect of the layout and design. This promotes ownership and your team have their own ideas as to what makes for a perfect working environment.
- Think ergonomics – Office chairs are constantly evolving and the latest versions are ergonomic by design, meaning your people can sit for long periods and not feel drained.
- Functionality – Place workstations in such a way to minimise distance between those who collaborate; place printers in central locations and keep cables to a minimum (hooray hooray). If you digitalise everything, you won’t need those bulky filing cabinets; a few mouse clicks and an employee has the doc they need on their screen.
- Ventilation – It is important to generate airflow, which can be done by installing a few extractor fans that are reversible. Fresh air keeps you alert and on-point, especially in the hot summer months.
- Create a 3D model – There is computer software that enables you to create a 3D model of your office design, which really lets you experience the ambience and check that things are in the right place.
- Switch to headsets – If your office staff wear the latest versions of headsets, they can freely communicate on the fly, which saves time and allows free movement while engaging with someone. VoIP technology has replaced the regular telephone service and if you have a few wireless routers, your staff are free to move around when on the phone.
- Compare prices using Google – From desks and office chairs to wall art, Google is your best buddy and can source the best brands at the lowest prices.
- LED lighting – You should replace all regular lightbulbs with LED units, which use less energy; the online lighting retailer has you covered for both general and task lighting.
Once you have worked out your budget, you can start to plan your layout and create the right ambience that inspires and motivates your team to achieve your goals.