The Basics of Office Space Design

Office Design is Both Science and Art

Designing a practical office environment that encourages productivity and sends a positive message to guests doesn’t have to be a painful process. You also don’t need to hire an interior designer or spend tons of money to create a beautiful place. Following are some helpful elements outlining the basics of office space design that you can use as you consider your next office project/change.

According to British American Business, “A carefully considered workspace design leads to a less stressful and more productive office.” So, what are the elements of a good office design, exactly? Read on to learn about the basics of office space design from the experts at 4myoffice.com.

Assess the Space and Identify Your Needs

Before planning your office design, measure how much space you have to work with and determine the best way to use it. When deciding how to best use available spaces, ask for employee feedback. Since your staff spends most of their time in their offices, they may be able to provide valuable feedback about how each space could be improved to boost productivity.

Incorporate Both Private and Open Spaces

Private workspaces are important when employees need room to think freely without distraction. On the other hand, open spaces are equally important because they encourage worker collaboration. Open spaces can also decrease feelings of isolation and help bring the office together.

Choose Comfortable Office Furniture

There is no denying that sitting on uncomfortable furniture for hours on end can be incredibly distracting for your employees. Your staff will perform much better if you outfit your office with comfortable, well-made office furniture. Look for options like ergonomic seating that provides lumbar support, reception desks that create a good first impression to guests, and height-adjustable desks and tables that allow employees to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day.

Reduce Distracting Noises with Sound Masking

With more and more offices opting for an open office space design, the pressure to maintain privacy and productivity has only increased. A little background noise may not distract employees, but your workers should be able to talk on the phone without hearing too many distracting noises in the background.

Investing in sound masking technology is an ideal way to reduce distracting noises to create a more focused and productive working environment. Sound masking reduces background noises by emitting soft, subtle sounds through the use of strategically installed speakers.

Add Plenty of Natural Lighting

Workers exposed to plenty of natural light are more likely to work full schedules while being happier in the workplace. UCLA states that being in natural light can increase happiness and improve moods. A lack of natural lighting in your office spaces could cause your employees to feel stressed and sluggish, resulting in poor performance.

Incorporate natural lighting by placing desks within close proximity to windows. Ensure you organize the desks so the sun won’t be directly in anyone’s eyes. If your budget allows, consider adding more windows or skylights, too.

Bring the Outdoors Inside

Create a relaxing environment in your workplace by bringing the outdoors inside. You can achieve a greater sense of well-being for your employees by adding touches of nature in key areas of your office, such as living plants, an indoor water feature, and natural materials and colors. If you decide to bring in plants, watch out for heavy pollinators that could set off allergies.

Make the Space Completely Yours

While most of your office may be painted with neutral colors, add pops of colors here and there to encourage creativity. Add little knick-knacks that convey what your business and brand are all about. Choose inspirational artwork that conveys messages about what your company is passionate about. The basics of good office space design involve finding ways to make each space uniquely yours.

Add Plenty of Storage

When it comes to running a successful business, organization is key. In particular, closed storage can keep most of your clutter behind closed doors and out of sight. When everything has its own place, keeping the space clean and tidy is much easier.

Schedule Professional Facility Services Now

From concept to completion, 4myoffice.com has specialized in professional facility services for over 20 years. We’ve helped thousands of Southern California businesses purchase and install new furniture, implement office improvements, relocate, and much more. Contact us today for more information! Our friendly staff is standing by to answer questions.