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Interior Design Tips for Your Office Space

All companies want to maximise the productivity and work output of their employees. Providing an office space that is conducive to effective work practices is an important factor that shapes the way that employees feel and the way that they perform at work – the office environment has a profound effect on concentration, mood and healthy functioning. Businesses that do more than throw a few desks and chairs in a room and carefully consider the environment that is created for their employees, commonly reap rewards and enjoy the appreciation and improved work performance of their employees.   The office space is commonly thought to include office furniture such as desks and office chairs, but there are a number of other factors to consider when designing your office space.  

Colours and Décor Themes:  

Although you may have some fantastically creative and original ideas as to colours and combinations of colours that could be used, it is vital to consider the type of work that will be carried out in the office space. For example, graphic designers and visual artists may thrive in an environment that extensively uses a bright and modern array of colours, whereas this could be distracting and inappropriate for those who perform more analytical, administrative and clerical roles.   Having said this, your desire for a modern, contemporary office space does not have to be quashed completely. It is often effective to use a mural or other artwork to enliven a space. Alternatively, the trend of using exposed or stripped back surfaces is incredibly popular at present. Avoiding bright colours and art pieces displayed ‘just because something is needed’, brick walls and concrete floors help to create a more authentic, raw and warehouse type look in some offices. The relaxed interior design is often thought to help employees feel relaxed and comfortable in the space.  

Lighting:  

When deciding on the lighting to be used in your office space, consider not only the mood that you want to create but also the type of work that is done. Some types of work require light to flood the entire room, while others (such as architecture or some types of design) benefit from concentrated light at individual desks.   Be aware that different types of lighting can affect mood and productivity. While fluorescent lights may be economical to run and throw light across the entire office, they often do little to create a mood that is mild and comfortable. Evaluate the different types of lighting available and the types that will best suit your business and accommodate your employees.  

Space:  

The way that office furniture is arranged should look good, but should also be carefully thought out to best meet the functionality requirements of the space. It can often make a world of sense to arrange office furniture in neat rows, but in certain offices and fields this can create a feeling of regimentation and restriction. It may even deaden creativity.   Sometimes, using a more open and arrangement of office furniture can create a sense of openness, comfort and harmony.  

Relationships:  

A number of businesses (including some Government departments) support the notion that large open planned offices are best arranged without high partitions, cubicle walls and separate offices. Having fewer and lower barriers between staff (including staff at different professional levels) can assist employees to develop social relationships and positive working relationships so that collaboration and cooperation increase.   Also, it is advisable to have an informal area that is intended for employees to socialise and wind down a little. Such an area can house comfortable lounges and perhaps a fridge, tables and chairs and even a pool table or some other recreational activity. Providing such an area is a clear symbol of your business valuing its employees and taking steps to cater for their comfort, wellbeing and productivity.  

Reduce clutter:  

Ensure that adequate and appropriate shelves and storage (such as cabinets and even a compactus) are in place so that clutter and the bits and pieces that seem to inevitably collect in offices can be hidden away. It is good for very few people to work in a space that is riddled with mess and unnecessary items.  

Workspaces tailored for individuals:  

To ensure that your workers are comfortable, happy and productive, workspaces should be adapted to fit their needs. This means that office chairs, desks and other items should be altered to suit the individual’s height, weight and other needs.   No matter what sort of office space you want to create, it is vital that it reflects its users and their needs. Businesses today are increasingly recognising that providing a stimulating, pleasant and appealing office space for their employees leads to improved morale, mood and productivity. An improvement in relationships among staff members is also a positive by-product that is quite often seen. With advantages such as these, many businesses are well advised to consider the above tips and how they may impact their staff and work areas.