Each day, the average person with an office job spends seven to 10 hours at work. Many of the designers overlook the basics when optimising an office space. We tend to get excited and find ourselves rushing to get inspirations on social media platforms, but if you stick to some basic principles, you can easily create a fully functional, and sustainable office space that is also aesthetically pleasing. Adriano Davidoni, general manager of Design Spaces, Al Naboodah Group Enterprises, tells us how:
- Create flexible office layouts Use furniture pieces and components that can be mixed, stacked, and moved around easily. This will help in rearranging the office depending on the task required. Also, don’t forget to create an archive room, this is necessary to include in the organisational chart.
- Let more light in Consider having light coming to all office areas even where there are no visible windows available. Smart glass partitions for meeting rooms are an option to help let the light in while keeping the privacy for each office.
- Use soundproof materials Working in open workspaces can be overwhelming when too much noise occurs. Using acoustic sound panels between desks, on the ceiling, and replacing hardwood with carpet for the flooring can help reduce the noise for employees, helping them to concentrate better on the task at hand.
- Traffic flow The key to a successful office design is in knowing the organisational chart of the company. This will help you decide the size and amount of space the end user needs. Draft a diagram to guide you on the relationship between each department to encourage a smoother traffic flow.
- Sustainability The designer should educate the endusers on how to maximise the office space design and fit-out, in order for it to function sustainably for the long run. Encourage the use of latest technology in terms of IT, office automation, light fixtures, and appliances that are energy efficient.