A positive work environment is a key factor in productivity and organizational success. Whether you’re a solopreneur working out of your home office, or you have an actual space in a building, making the most of the area can improve your business and help you thrive.
How do you get more from the property that you already own? Ideas are discussed to enhance the ambience, layout and atmosphere of your space. You’ll also want to keep the space in good working order, fixing any issues that crop up as you go along. Be sure to keep the space functional.
What can you do to improve your office environment?
The National Office Report shows that the office vacancy rate is still around 15%, despite more new businesses opening in recent years. You might have to do with what little space you have in order not to be displaced by the lack of spaces available.
You can make your environment more welcoming and productive, regardless of its limitations. We have compiled our favourite tips to transform your office into a homey environment that you and your team will love.
1. Modify the color scheme
The psychological effects of colors have a significant impact on individuals. Color can be used to promote calm, excitement, or even neutrals. Talk to a designer about which colors might be best for your office.
It is important to consider the colors of your brand and the way they match your business’ personality. Paint and decor is easily changed if something isn’t working for you.
2. You can make small spaces appear larger
You may need a tiny space, or you want to be able to work in your own home. You might need to have meetings with clients, and your garage can be used for multiple purposes. It is possible to make small spaces appear larger by using certain arrangements.
To draw attention to a space and create a feeling of greater size, you can place an accent wall at the back. Contrast colors are best, like a dark green with pale walls. Consider any accents that could draw attention. Your flooring could make your space appear larger or smaller.
3. Comfort over Style
You might be tempted to buy those bright orange armchairs for meeting spaces, but if they are like sitting on the edge of a rock, they won’t be conducive to productive conversations. You should instead look for furniture pieces that people can comfortably sit on and converse for extended periods of time.
For desks, chairs and other ergonomic design needs, you should also consider ergonomic designers. Your employees–even if the only one is you right now–will likely spend long hours at various tasks. It is important that they feel at ease and don’t cause any back pains.
4. Get the right lighting
A good lighting system can make a huge difference in your workplace. Although natural light is best, it’s always advisable to have overhead lights in places where there isn’t enough. Nobody wants to be in a dark and gloomy place.
If customers come to your office for meetings, you don’t want them to feel as though they’re walking into a dungeon. Canned lights can be used to add illumination to a building if it is yours.
Lamps that mimic natural sunlight might also be worth considering. It can improve your employees’ moods and keep everyone more productive.
5. Quality Air Quality
Your health and that of your employees can be affected by poor air quality. There are some things that you can do for your air quality to make it better. If you have staff who have asthma or other breathing issues, they’ll benefit as well.
Some experts believe office plants can improve air quality–some others say no. Even if they don’t make a huge difference, the oxygen plants put off and the carbon they absorb can’t hurt.
You can open your windows to let in fresh air from the outside. You can also add an air purifier to your home. Make sure you change the filters often and remove any debris and dead skin cells.
6. De-clutter Your Space
It can be difficult for people to focus in a cluttered environment. Look around at all the “stuff” in your office. If there is anything you haven’t used in the last month, either store it or donate it. The space will look larger if you get rid of clutter.
To get stuff off the floor, you can look into organizational systems. You can store items up in cabinets to create a clean look for everyone.
7. You can add some personality
Consider the personality of your brand. Do you love to have fun? To decorate your space, you might add quotes or posters. Maybe your company has a performance-based, more serious approach. Use motivational words throughout.
For example, some brands have a reputation for being young and may use bold colors or accent pieces to scream the youth generation. You can add what you like to your decor and gradually increase its overall size.
Retire and Take a Look Back
Once you’ve completed the steps for creating an attractive office space, it is time to take a look around. What is not working in your office? Are there other things you can do to make the experience even more enjoyable? Ask your staff about their needs and preferences. It is common for the best-managed spaces to adapt and change with changing trends.
Eleanor edits Designerly Magazine. Eleanor worked as a creative director at prominent digital marketing agencies before she became her own boss. With her husband, Bear, she lives in Philadelphia.
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