Why space planning is important in office design
The trend of makeovers fits everything from personal appearance to kitchens to your old car. Corporate and home offices also respond well to a new look and in fact, strategic office space planning has a big impact on inspiring employees with an upbeat environment in which they can contribute their best talents toward long-term company success. First impressions are also critical components in establishing rewarding client relationships when they see your office for the first time.
What is office space planning?
Office space planning is an element of interior design that specifically focuses on intentionally organized space layouts most conducive to collaboration and productivity throughout the workday. Communication between employees, quality work, and comfort are important end goals.
Why is space planning important?
Offices are most often made up of one or several large spaces where many people gather day in and day out. To that end, adequate planning and organization is critical to ensure the company dynamic and efficiency remain intact during evolving business growth. It requires being part oracle and anticipating your company’s future space needs balanced with those of today, while incorporating employee wish lists for an idyllic and productive work environment.
Bring on the image and hold the panic
A well-planned and presented office space exudes personality and charisma, like Steve McQueen striding into a room. A client visiting your office for a big seminar or product launch will be duly impressed with a smartly designed space filled with uber-productive staff and that could contribute to landing the year’s best contract.
Proactive organization is also of course a reliable deterrent to those last-minute panics when it comes time to adding employees, revamping entire departments, or establishing designated meeting spaces.
Strategic seating
Location and type of seating is another important planning element. Daily tasks and activity of employees should be considered to ensure seamless workflow. For example, if a particular group works together most days, it would be prudent to arrange their seating in close proximity. Employees charged with frequent document management should be located close to printers, scanners, and other peripherals.
Ancillary facilities should also be considered, including restrooms, drinking fountains, and cafeteria or lounge area.
Blend the org chart
While companies’ internal structures vary, most house senior staff in separate offices, perhaps along outlying walls or upper levels, while other employees work in partitioned spaces or cubicles. Smart space planning takes this into consideration while simultaneously preparing for potential addition to increased employee numbers in the future.