When your startup business has grown, and you’re about to embark on the next stage of innovation and evolution, you will need business premises to match. Your office environment needs to show your employees, clients, and suppliers what you stand for as a business. It should be a place that motivates your team to perform at their best in comfortable and safe surroundings. You might be surprised how much of an impact the design of your office can have on your business’ productivity. To ensure you make the most of your corporate office, here are 10 design tips to keep in mind from the beginning.
1. Prioritize flexibility
Ensure that your employees have plenty of flexibility in terms of their workspaces. They may require isolated quiet areas for complex tasks as well as group meeting areas that facilitate collaboration.
2. Include a social hub
Communication and social connections are important, not only for morale but also in terms of strengthening the bond between team members to enhance collaboration and productivity. For this reason, it’s essential to include a kitchen and a break out space, such as a lounge area where people can take a break from work and their screen and enjoy a social lunch away from their desks.
3. Make workstations well-equipped
Your employees will be far more productive and less likely to develop health problems if their workstations are equipped with ergonomic chairs, adjustable desks (sitting-standing desks), and the most advanced computer technology you can afford.
4. Consider installing audiovisual (AV) equipment
If your business could benefit from AV equipment such as intercoms, public address (PA), teleconferencing, digital signage, video walls, and more, contact a leading supplier such as CSAV Systems. Whether you need an AV solution for meeting rooms, training rooms, board rooms, exhibition space, or lobbies, they will be able to work with you to find the best equipment for your requirements.
5. Maximize natural light
Natural light has many health benefits and can actually improve the mood and productivity of the workforce. Try to include large windows, skylights, and lighting which is designed to imitate sunlight.
6. Focus on your reception as your first impression
The reception or lobby area is the first part of your offices that clients and suppliers will see, so it’s crucial that you make a great first impression. It should be professional yet welcoming.
7. Keep décor on-brand
Your office should represent your brand from the colors you choose for the walls to the furniture and finishing touches and accessories. Consider how to weave branding into your office design and ensure you do so.
8. Plan your office layout carefully
You need to ensure that your employees have enough space to work safely and comfortably. While there are no laws about how much space each employee should have (as there is in Europe), you do need to pay attention to laws around health and safety, such as fire regulations and disability access.
9. Embrace nature
Studies have shown that offices that have natural elements such as plants and flowers have higher rates of productivity, a more balanced mood and are more creative.
10. Clear the clutter
A clean and tidy work environment will not only help your employees to stay focused, work more efficiently and reduce their stress levels but is also important from a health and safety point of view.
