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July 16, 2018

Four key office design considerations in 2018

A lot of time and thought goes on behind the scenes to create the perfect office design, from the inclusion of light to the use of sound absorbing furniture – there’s a whole host of aspects that need to be taken into consideration before the plan of action can commence.
In this post, we’re going to focus on four significant factors that are crucial in the creation of a productive and efficient office space. Here, take a look at the elements that should be focused on in order to trigger the imaginations of each and every office worker.


Functionality
It’s all well and good having a modern office design, but if it’s impossible to use, then what’s the point? None of us have time to be spending 10 minutes trying to find the remote control that opens the filing cabinet.
This is where the importance of functionality comes in. Often, whether the environment is actually fit for its intended purpose is disregarded, and more focus is put on whether it looks impressive. The phrase ‘form follows function’ comes to mind as the efficiency of the workplace should come before aesthetics in office design considerations in 2018. Even the simplest of things such as clear walkways, enough desk space and access to the kitchen/toilets are imperative in achieving a stress-free, dynamic working atmosphere.


Light
The importance of light in an office is two-fold. A bright space ensures a more productive workforce, breathing more life into the room and creating an environment where ideas and innovation can grow and thrive.
Light is also a huge determining factor for workplace wellbeing. A study published in the Journal of Sleep and Sleep Disorders Research discovered that exposure to natural light in an office space impacts employees’ quality of life. Dark offices with little to no natural lighting can encourage despondency, a lack of motivation and a loss of drive.
So, if you’re after a positive, driven and healthy office, natural light should be a key office design consideration in 2018.


Sound absorption
Sound levels play a key role in the success of an office. Different teams require different levels of noise, and this should be taken into account when designing an office.
Take for example a social media agency. This type of industry will have requirements that sit at opposite sides of the professional spectrum – open spaces will be required to ensure collaboration and free-thinking whilst meeting rooms will require a much quieter atmosphere, blocking out the noise from the main office space.
Sound absorption can be achieved via noise friendly flooring, sound-absorbing furniture including wall partitions, couches and filing cabinets – all of which can lessen the acoustics of an office space – and even plants which have proven effective in reducing noise levels in an open office setting.


Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the science of one’s efficiency in their workplace and the analysis of what could be altered or improved to increase this efficiency. The study explores whether workers are performing to their full potential and reaching maximum levels of productivity in regard to the equipment provided to them.
From the office chair to the height of the worker’s eye level, there are so many factors that need to be addressed when designing a workplace that is individually suited for each and every employee in order to establish adequate working conditions. Whilst this is of huge importance in office design considerations in 2018, many companies give the subject very little thought, which can often result in long term health problems regarding the back and neck.
Focusing a significant amount of attention on office ergonomics also boosts morale as workers often feel valued and cared for when their comfort and safety is being taken into account. It is critical that employees feel as though their employer has their best interests at heart in order to maintain a healthy working relationship.


And that’s it!
There are hundreds of considerations to give weight to in office design, but these are the key four!
If you’re currently developing a new commercial site that’s in need of a fit-out and design specialist, get in touch with us at Workspace Design & Build and we’ll be able to help you out.
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