Office design for small business spaces

Whether you are looking to remodel existing small premises or to create a home office design, there are many issues you need to take into account in office design.

As a space for working, practicality should be your key consideration, says Sarah Carrie from Mark Two Construction and Development.

"A well-organised, tidy and clean space is far more conducive to productivity than chaos and clutter," Sarah advises.

For a home office, also consider whether other members of the family may need to use the space for homework or hobbies and ensure that the room is equipped to meet varying needs.

Cabinetry

Whether you opt for built-in cabinetry or a mix of standalone pieces is a matter of personal taste, not to mention budget. However, custom-made cabinetry can help maximise the space available and add a streamlined feel to your office design. 

Long desks - perhaps running the length of one wall - provide a flexible working space and plenty of storage underneath. In a smaller room, L-shaped or curved desks fit more neatly into a tight corner, while also providing an efficient work area.

Smart storage solutions

Storage is an essential part of any office design, keeping your work surface free of clutter. If using built-in cabinetry, it's wise to include cupboards or drawers as well as bookshelves, so you can store bulky electronic equipment out of sight.

For a more flexible approach, try freestanding drawers you can move around, storage cubes, wide shelves within easy reach of your desk and a range of storage boxes to keep the clutter under control.

Choosing colour 

Neutral colour schemes lend a feeling of calm and order to an office design. Stick to one colour or introduce just one other hue. Bright 'playtime' colours such as red or vivid blue can be overstimulating.

Office lighting

Natural light is best, but make sure you position any computers at a 45º angle to the window to cut down on screen glare. Adjustable blinds are often a better option than curtains, as they allow you to control the amount of natural light entering the room.

Ventilation

It's important that any office is well ventilated - not just for your mental wellbeing but also for your health. Lack of airflow around electronic equipment can also lead to overheating problems and the risk of damage.

Hide messy cables

If you have lots of electronic equipment, you may find yourself constantly battling unsightly cable clutter. Plan holes for cables in work surfaces to eliminate lengths of untidy wiring. Positioning all your equipment in one area of the room will help minimise clutter too.

For more advice on creating the perfect office design, contact a local building contractor today.