For every entrepreneur, starting a new business is exciting. But, before you sign your new office lease, or clear out a space in your home, consider what your new office may need.
Whether you are leasing new office space, moving offices or redesigning your home office, here are eleven things to keep mind before you purchase office furniture and fixtures:
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Budget
The first, most important factor is your office design budget. How much you are willing to spend on office furniture? This figure will determine the kind, quality and quantity of office fixtures. With a budget in mind, look for the best deals and highest quality furniture that limited resources can buy.
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Space
How large or small your office space is will determine the kind of furniture you buy as well. If you have only a few employees and a small space you can purchase larger co-working tables. But more employees in a small office require more tables. So, ensure they aren’t too small or uncomfortable.
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Lighting
Every office space requires an ample amount of lighting irrespective of how many windows are available. Though, having more windows could decrease your electricity bill during the day, but lighting must be strong and placed in places where it benefits employees the most.
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Comfort
When buying office furniture, the comfort of employees must be considered. If your team is not comfortable in cubicles or desks, they will get agitated, which will undoubtedly impact productivity, performance and workplace morale.
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Cleanliness
Hygiene is important in any workplace. So, don’t forget to account for the type of material your furniture is designed from; something that shows stains and that isn’t easy to clean may not be the best choice in an environment where cleanliness is a priority.
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Aesthetic
Selecting office furniture that has a consistency of color, design or look across the entire office makes it look united. If the furniture color or style is different for every individual then an office can look like one big jigsaw puzzle and give off a messyvibe. It may also assert ideas of favoritism among employees. A consistent furniture scheme creates calmness and synergy.
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Office Desks
While selecting office desks, keep in mind that employees will be spending most of their time working from it. Therefore, office desks must be functional, and large enough that an employee can write and work work from their desktop computer (if required). Most importantly, an office desk should allow team members to do their jobs in the most optimal way possible. For instance, ensure adequate leg space underneath for employees to stretch, occasionally.
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Office Chairs
Chairs are one of the most important factors to consider when designing an office space. Most employees sit in their chairs for eight to nine hours daily. So, naturally, office chairs must be extremely comfortable and adjustable, but not too comfortable to encourage a mid-day nap. Also, buying office chairs with wheels is a better option as it allows employees quicker movement and accessibility. Keeping these factors in mind when buying office furniture ensures that the culture and productivity of your small business is maximized; equipping employees for high performance in a positive work environment.
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Workspace Storage
Creating an individual workspace storage area for every employee to keep files, data and project information is extremely important. This will help employees stay organized and benefit from easy access and improved workflow.
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Electronics
The office furniture you select should be ‘electronics friendly’ — offering just enough space for hardware and easy management of wires for key things such as a computer, phone, etc. Keeping these factors in mind when buying office furniture ensures that the culture and productivity of your small business is maximized; equipping employees for high performance in a positive work environment.
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Cubicle Dividers
If you choose to outfit your new office with cubicles, utilizing cubicle dividers should be considered for both privacy and workplace productivity. It is the best, and most cost-effective way to give every individual a mini-office within an office and still be able to communicate easily.
Keeping these factors in mind when buying office furniture ensures that the culture and productivity of your small business is maximized; equipping employees for high performance in a positive work environment.
