The planning of office space can be every bit as challenging as it is exciting. You could be adding to your existing space, moving to a larger space as your company expands, you could even be starting a new business and be looking to create a space that suits your needs.
There are a few things to keep in mind.
Challenges typically arise when there is no proper planning. Although details such as furniture, partitioning, lighting, air-conditioning, plumbing and all the various other trades are critical, the very first step in planning your new office space is to start with a solid foundation in place. We recommend a designer is brought in from the beginning.
Assess Your Needs
You will need to think long term. With the advent of COVID-19, your health and safety needs may need to be reconsidered, which will include social distancing and sanitation. A needs assessment and space planning will both be a requirement to determine exactly what you need from your available office space. Plan around those needs in a way that will maximise the available space. Do not just think about what you need for the next year or two; consider how you will be able to grow within the space. Forward-thinking may save you a lot of money and hassle down the road.
Consider your work environment.
Every company has its own idea of an ideal office, which may not always be the best. Be open to new ideas and trends. Consideration for our environment will help your green credentials. Many companies these days prefer a larger open-plan work area for employees, with separate offices or sectioned off work areas for management. You will need to remember there are other important areas within the space. Kitchens, bathrooms, employee pause spaces, meeting areas, and reception need to be considered. This trend may not work for you, however, it is important to create the perfect working environment for you and your team. Natural light, ventilation, tones, textures, and the use of materials are critical these days to improve productivity and general wellbeing.
Invest in professional help.
A designer or architect will be essential for the right results. There are many factors to consider when planning an office. Trying to do everything yourself on top of running a business is a big task. Designers and architects have studied long and hard to do what they do. It is not often that the layman will do a better job than the professionals will. Sometimes it is only after you lose money that you realize that sometimes cutting corners can cost big.
View this .pdf to get more insight into planning your office space.
Please contact the team at Burnetts to assist you with a new install, a modification to your existing environment or general maintenance. Burnetts a True Turnkey Solution.