Renovating your office space is about a lot more than just a few paint swatches. Deciding to make a change in décor is really about deciding to make a positive change in the office environment, one that will be beneficial to you, your employees and your clients.
Whether your budget is large or small, it is crucial to think about your options before you get started. How, for example, can you maximize the office space to motivate employees to perform at their best and increase their output? Are their ways to accomplish this that are eco-friendly and energy-efficient?
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Experiment With Lighting
Proper lighting can transform a space for your employees. Well-lit workspaces boost mood and production. Natural light is far better than artificial, so incorporate it wherever possible. Replacing and upgrading your windows can be one of the most eco-friendly options for increasing light sources in the office.
Consider an Open Concept
Cubicles not only inhibit employees from feeling they are part of a team, they can also make an employee feel emotionally, mentally and physically stuck. Try taking down the cubicles and creating a space that is clean, refreshed and open. In the wide-open space, employees will feel accountable for their work production but will also be more approachable to their co-workers, which is one of the reasons Jim Belosic, founder of ShortStack, is maintaining this style of workspace for his company.
Use Color
How many offices have you walked into that have a monochromatic color scheme of white? Rather than have any potential clients or new hires view your space as dull and unwelcoming, invest in a paint job with colors that speak to the personality of the work you do. For technology-driven businesses, this may mean using a modern array of bright colors and patterns. For a health and wellness center, this may include colors that invoke feelings of reassurance and have calming properties, like blues and greens.
Swap Out the Furniture
Comfort, alongside style, should be a key factor when selecting furniture for your office. Consider how chairs provide – or don’t provide – adequate support for your staff and clients. Look for pieces that will be long-lasting, and avoid ones that are only desirable because of the price. Consider getting the input of your staff to ensure that they will be happy with the choices you make.
Cut Long-Term Costs With Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Everything from light bulbs to curtains to heating and cooling options can be upgraded to be more energy-efficient. A dramatic way of reducing your heating and cooling costs would be to install a cool metal roof, which is designed to be both eco-friendly and energy-efficient. Other ideas include taking a look at your insulation and investing in energy-efficient heating and cooling options. Increasing your energy efficiency is well-worth the initial investment in the long-run.
Whether or not you are looking to go through small upgrades or a major overhaul on your office space, it’s important to recognize the needs of your staff and clients. The choices you make in renovating your workspace should provide both with a feeling of confidence in your business.
JaneFox says
These are some great ideas for office renovation–especially using color. It’s amazing the difference a good coat of paint can make in a space. Using the right colors can definitely help you attract and retain more customers, but I also believe it can help boost employee morale. Which would you rather work in–a starkly white office, or a brighter, more invigorating office? Painting is a great option, in addition to the others you list.
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