If you have been charged with designing an office block, you have a large project ahead of you. An office block needs to provide employees with a safe, comfortable environment that encourages them to be productive. It needs to be laid out effectively, and it needs to be aesthetically pleasing so that staff feel relaxed and motivated at work. It also needs to be planned effectively ensuring that all essential areas are catered for. Keep reading for some tips on how to go about this.
Location
First, you need to decide on a location for your office block. Most are built in towns and cities, so take the time to research the location and make sure that it is near enough amenities. Is it easy for staff members to commute to the office? Is it within reach of local restaurants or coffee shops? If you are relocating from another office, you also need to ensure that the new location is convenient for your current staff members and clients. The better located your office block is, the more chance you have of attracting staff and clients to your business.
Important Areas
Next, you’ll want to consider the different types of areas that you need to include in your design. Offices are a clear must-have, but you may also require conference rooms, meeting rooms, a reception area, and a foyer. Don’t forget to also include toilets in your design, as well as a room for staff members to relax whilst on their break. You also need to consider food options – will vending machines and a microwave be suitable, or would a canteen be a better option?
Productivity
Of course, you want your staff to be productive when at work, so it’s vital to consider productivity when designing an office block. You’ll want to create an environment that is light and opening, and gives staff access to good ventilation. Ensure that your office space has plenty of windows to let air and natural light in, and consider installing temperature controls so that your staff can decide upon a temperature that is comfortable for them. If you are located in a particularly noisy urban area, you will also want to consider implementing some form of noise control to prevent your staff from getting distracted.
Security
It’s important for every office block to remain as secure as possible, so you need to consider what type of security options you are going to implement. Commercial door hardware from Ives Hinges is a good start, but you will also want to consider having some security locks placed on your windows as well. On top of this, you’ll want to install a good CCTV system, and possibly even a secure entry system so that no unauthorized personnel is permitted access.
Feel free to be flexible in the design of your office block as it is likely that things will not go exactly to plan. However, by following the tips outlined above, you should at least have the most important considerations taken care of.
Kidal Delonix is a contributor to Mr. Hoffman's blog. The views and opinions are entirely his/her own and may not reflect Mr Hoffman's views.
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