How to Design an Office
It’s time for an office redesign. Your old office needs an upgrade if you want to keep yourself and your employees productive. But how are you going to start?
Most people don’t know how to design an office in a way that maximizes employee productivity and happiness. The old-fashioned cubicle office won’t cut it anymore when so many companies are getting innovative with their designs.
We’re here to talk about a few office ideas that can take your office from drab to fab. Read on to learn more.
Create Distinct Spaces
It makes sense that a boring office structure isn’t inspiring your employees to stay productive. How would you feel looking at the walls of a cubicle every day? There’s no way to collaborate with others or flex your own creativity in that type of environment.
Rather than trying to solve the problem by removing cubicles and creating an open-concept floor plan, we recommend creating several types of workspaces for your employees to use as they please.
Create small work “pods” where employees can gather to collaborate on projects. Remember that collaboration doesn’t always happen between people in the same department, so adding the flexibility of seating pods allows different people to work together.
You should also create solitary spaces for employees who need quiet time to finish their work. Set these spaces far away from the pods so the employees can focus.
Adding as many distinct spaces as possible allows you to cater to more workstyles.
Lighting Matters
Lighting is a part of any good office design. When you’re designing an office with employee happiness and productivity in mind, consider how well-lit it’s going to be (and what that lighting is going to look like).
Research suggests that natural light keeps people happier and more productive. If you have access to large windows in your office, make sure that you don’t block them with thick curtains or furniture.
Use light colors and mirrors to bounce that light around. Bonus: this will also save you money on your power bill.
For when the sun isn’t at its brightest, avoid fluorescent lighting. It can give some people headaches. Instead, use softer LED lighting.
Don’t Omit Decor
Yes, offices should prioritize function over style, but that doesn’t mean that they should be devoid of decorations.
Start with functional items by ordering a custom sign or some nameplates for your office and employees. From there, consider buying some prints or commissioning artwork that fits your ideal aesthetic.
Let employees add decorations to their own spaces. Consider bringing in some plants for even more employee happiness and productivity.
You’re going to spend a lot of time in this office. Why not make it look as nice as possible?
That’s How to Design an Office the Right Way
With a bit of trial-and-error, you’ll be well on your way to figuring out how to design an office that works well for both you and your employees.
Remember: diversify your work areas, don’t omit decorations, and let some might light into the room. Your employees will love your new office design.
For more helpful business articles, check out our other posts.
