Tips on how to Design your Office on a Budget
All offices should be the perfect combination of function and image. Enterprise spaces need to reflect the confidence, expertise and goals of the people who work within its walls and their role the community.
Still, businesses exist to generate profit. If a capital expense does not generate profit, or save the company time or money so it can generate more profit, it is just an expense. As a result, all offices have to be decorated and furnished on a budget.
That said, part of effective budgeting comes not from knowing how to save money, but from how to spend it.
Fashionistas have long warned us never to try to save money on something that supports you throughout the day, like your shoes for instance. For your wardrobe, compromising on quality footwear may save you money upfront, but can leave you with lasting problems down the road. It can be as minor as aching feet, or as serious as lower back problems. The office design equivalent of good shoes are well-fitting workstations and appropriate lighting systems that offers value. It doesn’t always cost more, so find a reputable company to work with and get the information you need to make the best decision for your workspace and budget. Invest now, for long-term gain in employee happiness, comfort, and productivity.
Office Design Budget Priorities: Office Furniture, Lighting & Employee Comfort
Tip #1: Spend on Workstations that fit
Your employees need workstations built, or adjustable, to their own dimensions regardless of their height, weight, or available range of motion. Ignoring the physical needs of your employees can result in more sick days, lower productivity and lower morale due to general discomfort and the fatigue that results. Extra research and investment in workstation customization can result in better health and wellness in the work place and that leads to both higher productivity and higher profits.
Save up to 50% on Remanufactured Workstations compared to New
Tip #2: Spend on Lighting systems that are flexible and adjustable
Have you ever tried to work with glare on your desktop or tried to read in light that is too dim? Lighting systems that can be easily adjusted according to variations in the season or time of day can prevent problems caused by both glare and dimness. Like ergonomic workstations, flexible lighting puts ease in the hands of employees who can then focus on profit-generating activity.
For more information about how ergonomic workstations and lighting affect workplace safety, review the Workstation Layout and Lighting report put out by Service Ontario [1].
Tip #3: Spend when Sophistication Counts
New York Interior Designer Tip for Designing your Office on a Budget
“I spent money where I thought it would improve the sophistication,” New York designer Brad Sherman recently told the New York Times [2] when describing his work for a cash-strapped start up. From Sherman’s perspective, re-using any and all materials that can be reused, combined with vintage finds and soft-lighting, provide a stylish and cool look on a budget that will attract top talent.
Tip #4: Invest in Comfort for Your Employees
Sherman goes on to say, “If your workplace is as comfortable and welcoming as your home, the thinking goes, you never have to leave.”
Budgets in office design are important. Spend money well with a focus on the foundations of well-fitted workstations and flexible lighting systems. Our team specializes in helping you find the right office furniture for your budget and space. Contact us today for a free consultation.