In the world of business, change is the only constant. When it comes to relocating your office, proper workplace layout design is crucial for a smooth transition.
At Austate Removals we understand the importance of creating an office environment that fosters increased productivity and employee contentment and well-being. In this article, we'll provide you with valuable tips on how to optimise the layout and design of your new office space with the help of office removalists.
To ensure a seamless transition for your team one of the most useful tools to assist you in having a detailed plan of what needs to happen during the moving period is incorporated into our office move checklist.
The type or style of workspace you are moving to is vital to your planning strategy. The common types of office workplaces are:
- Open plan
- Team-based
- Activity-based
- Co-worker based
- Traditional
- Integrated with processing
1. Plan your space for efficiency
One of the most important considerations before the redesign occurs is budgetary, as this is the linchpin of whether to go ahead or not. Before the move, consult all managers or team members who can provide insights into the most efficient use of your new space.
Take into consideration:
- the number of employees
- departmental needs
- the nature of the work involved
- office or premises size
- future growth projections
A well-thought-out floor plan can enhance workflow, efficiency and collaboration. It is self-evident that the advice of an office or workplace design consultant would be another worthwhile investment at the earliest stages.
2. Prioritise natural light
Natural light can very positively and significantly impact the productivity and well-being of your employees. Position workstations and common areas to maximise access to natural light sources.
This not only reduces energy consumption but also creates a far more pleasant working environment. This factor can also be relevant to refreshment areas where employees take a break adding to the pleasant ambience of the workplace.
3. Ergonomic office furniture
Invest in ergonomic office furniture that promotes comfort and supports employees' health. Ergonomic chairs, height-adjustable desks, and proper monitor positioning can help reduce fatigue and enhance productivity. Attention should also be given to ergonomic factors for employees who aren’t necessarily in front of a monitor throughout the workday.
4. Open vs. private spaces
Consider the balance between open and private workspaces. While open layouts encourage collaboration and foster team spirit, some tasks require privacy, quiet or a distraction-free atmosphere.
Work with office designers or your team to create a versatile office design that accommodates both needs. Don’t neglect the need for adequate storage space and accessibility to all areas for staff and customers.
5. Refreshment areas and zones
Dedicate spaces for informal meetings, brainstorming sessions, and relaxation. These areas can boost creativity and provide employees with a change of scenery when needed. This might even include facilities like a gymnasium or exercise spaces for employees and managerial staff or just quiet areas for a sense of renewal or vitality.
6. Technology integration
Collaboration between your IT department, office removalists and interior design consultants ensures seamless technology integration. Strategically plan the placement of power outlets, data ports, and Wi-Fi access points to support modern office needs. Depending on the nature of your business it is worthwhile to take into account facilities for other business functions and machinery that might not rely solely on computer input. One important consideration can be the opportunity during the new setup to update equipment that might be otherwise outdated.
7. Greenery and biophilic design
Incorporate indoor plants and elements of biophilic design to connect your employees with nature. Greenery can improve air quality and overall well-being while adding a touch of tranquillity to the workspace.
Research shows that increased oxygen levels generated by natural greenery contribute significantly to the mental well-being and focus of employees to such an extent as to be distinctly measurable.
Living plants also filter out harmful toxins and enhance air quality contributing to employees reducing the risk of respiratory issues and improving employee health overall. Take advantage of vertical space where a vertical garden or vine trellis can be incorporated.
8. Colour psychology
Consider the psychological impact of colours when choosing your office's colour scheme. Different hues can evoke different emotions and affect employee moods.
Consult with interior designers for a palette that aligns with your company's culture, brand and objectives but taking into account the effect on employee productivity and sense of workplace satisfaction which feeds directly into business productivity.
9. Acoustic solutions
Office noise can be a significant distraction. Implement acoustic solutions like sound-absorbing panels, carpets, and partitions to create a quieter and more focused work environment. White noise, music or sound effects can add to the pleasant ambience of the workplace and help with concentration where appropriate.
10. Employee input and feedback
Involve your employees in the design process. Their input and feedback are invaluable in creating a workspace that meets their needs and preferences. Very often they are the ones who have the best handle on what works for the tasks they have to undertake. They often have great ideas about what they desire for refreshment areas as well.
Additionally, consulting your employees about these issues gives them a feeling of personal investment in the new space and thus ownership over their part of the business. Regular reviews conducted with the collaboration of employees about the most efficient utilisation of areas is a worthwhile activity too.
11. Security considerations
Depending on the need for security in your type of business it is a good idea to take into account the difficulties associated with enabling those people authorised to do so to enter work areas to the exclusion of others. This might mean a coded lock system or other means so that only certain areas remain open to all staff.
In Summary
A well-designed office space not only improves productivity but also enhances the well-being of your employees. Collaborating with experienced office removalists, and office and workplace designers can help you achieve an optimal workplace layout design.
At Austate we're here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to ensure a seamless office relocation experience that transforms your new space into a hub of productivity and employee contentment.
Happy Moving!
