Whether it’s because you’re moving office or undertaking a refurbishment, how you go about an office fitout can have a big impact on workplace productivity, employee engagement and also brand perceptions.
Fitting out an office can also be a stressful time. There’s a lot to think about including whether the new office will adapt as the business grows and evolves, the type of furniture and technology to invest in, making sure the fitout results in an efficient and prosperous workspace, accounting for downtime and making the most of your budget.
Here are seven things to think about when planning an office fitout:
1. Fit for purpose
Ask, what is the purpose of the space? Start with the practical consideration of designing a workspace that is equipped to support, or enhance its intended purpose. Brainstorm both the practical needs and big picture vision, specific to the relevant tasks or activities i.e. sales, admin, finance, a call centre, or breakout space. Also, consider the image you are projecting to clients, as well as the comfort and wellbeing of your employees.
2. Budget
Determine your available budget. Whether you are temporary or permanent occupants of the space or site in question will influence the design and structural scope of your project and your budget.
3. Agile workstations
More and more organisations are embracing flexible workstations, for instance, hot-desks, static workstations, and sit-to-stand and height adjustable desks. The relevance or benefit to your workspace will depend on whether your employees are full-time or part-time, mobile representatives, sitting for long periods, or a combination of both. Consider your current situation and the longer-term vision for the workspace concerned.
4. Breakout or creative spaces
Decide whether you need (or even have space for) breakout or creative space where employees can creatively collaborate away from their desks, or socialise to recharge during the work day.
5. Available space
What are the opportunities and limitations of the space concerned? Consider storage, workstations and other resources, such as printers and photocopiers.
6. Safety
Ensure any new fit out and office adheres to Workplace OHS regulations. Considerations include, fire hydrants, location of amenities, first aid, suitable lighting, ease of movement between desks and emergency exits.
7. Noise
Good acoustic design will reduce unwanted sound and minimise employee frustration. This is particularly important for open plan offices. Consider using design elements like acoustic screening, carpeting in desk areas, providing additional quiet spaces for focused work as well as breakout spaces for collaborative work.
Planning an office fitout might sound like a daunting prospect, but when done successfully it can result in not only a visually appealing office, but one that is conductive to productive work, happier employees and a pleasant, safe environment.
Belinda Lyone, General Manager, COS Working Spaces
