I’m setting up an office, what do I need?
Whether you’re setting up an office at home or in a commercial premises, getting the right design and equipment to begin with can help save any unnecessary costs. Making sure your workspace is comfortable, stylish, and functional for your team creates an environment that’s both collaborative and productive.
Here, we share the must-haves to create the most efficient workspace for your needs, whether you’re designing for a small office or a larger team.
1 – Go minimalist
When it comes to modern office furniture, keeping designs sleek and stylish helps to create a calm and less stressful environment for employees. Simple desks, chairs, and storage units not only make a workspace easier to clean, but also help avoid clutter (messy space – messy mind!).
When it comes to colour, a neutral palette works well, adding pops of colour with bright accessories or plants (which also improve air quality) for an on-brand and on-trend aesthetic.
2 – Ensure furniture is adjustable
Adjustable workstations help improve productivity and prevent injuries. For example, height-adjustable desks provide the ability to switch between sitting and standing
positions, improving mental and physical health. And never underestimate the power of an adjustable chair. Getting to a showroom where you can physically try them out helps – ensuring you’re comfortable and able to perform daily tasks without suffering from aches and pains.
3 – Create multi-purpose zones
Make the most of limited space by creating areas that can be used for different tasks. For example, you might want a meeting area and a breakout space, but don’t have room for both. You could choose modular furniture that can be easily rearranged depending on what you need to use the space for at any time, or stackable/folding tables and chairs. If you’re unsure where to start maximising the space you have available, we can help bring your vision to life, or plan and design your office space for you.
4 – Make the most of lighting
Wherever possible, utilise natural light to improve the overall atmosphere of a space. This will also reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, helping you save on energy bills in the long run. Try to position desks near windows, making sure blinds are also available on sunnier days.
Overhead LED lighting works well and is energy efficient. If you’re in a large office, make sure lights can be isolated so that employees can choose to have them on or off in their area. This also helps with the bills. You may also wish to incorporate task lighting with adjustable desk lamps, providing focused and stylish lighting for individual workstations.
5 – Utilise walls and shelving
Magnetic boards, whiteboards, or even blackboard paint on walls are all functional and inspiring for creative meetings, or even just as visual reminders around the office. Top tip: they can also be used to make sure you get the brew run right!
Keep working areas clutter-free by having hooks on walls for coats and bags, or even better, install slimline lockers for extra security.
Wall-mounted shelves are handy solutions for storing a range of office gear, but can look messy if used for files or documents that pile up. Instead, save them for display space for products, mood boards, or catalogues instead.
6 – Get smart with storage
There are plenty of sneaky storage spaces you can utilise to maintain a minimalist aesthetic in your office. Under-desk units or drawers can keep essential items within reach without clutter. They’re also usually lockable so useful for valuable or personal items.
Away from the desk area, modular or stackable storage can be rearranged to suit your needs and fit the space. You can also use block storage units, which can double up as dividers to section areas off. They can also be used as additional shelving for a homely finishing touch.
7 – Watch out for wires
A good cable management system keeps wires out of the way. This isn’t just tidier, creating a more zen-like space, but more importantly helps prevent trips and falls in the workplace.
8 – Soften sounds
Particularly effective in open-plan offices or spaces with high ceilings, installing sound-absorbing solutions such as acoustic panels or rugs can reduce noise levels and create a more productive environment.
Getting purposeful with your office space planning can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run, while creating an environment you (and your team) love to spend time in. We know planning and designing a space, on top of your day-to-day tasks, can be confusing and stressful. That’s why we specialise in designing, planning, and supplying everything you need for your new office.
Get in touch and let us take the extra work off your hands.