Designing an office could be a daunting task. It’s not just about aesthetics but about influencing productivity by caring for your employees’ needs. Hence, the office interiors must be structured in a way that reflects your work ethic, objectives and goals. So taking care of minute details like colours, private space, lighting, storage requirements, acoustics and other things becomes inevitable.
However, most organisations overlook these aspects and make some common mistakes while designing their workspaces. But, when you collaborate with a trustworthy office interior designer, you won’t have to worry about these problems.
Nevertheless, you should be aware of the issue beforehand to have a smooth and effective office designing experience. So, here are the eleven pitfalls to avoid while designing your workspace.
1. Ignoring Employees Need Which is an Integral Aspect of Any Setup
One of the crucial loopholes in designing office interiors is neglecting the needs of employees. The office interiors must be designed to consider the needs of employees, who spend a significant portion of their time in the office. Hence, failing to address their needs can hamper the company’s overall growth. Organisations should conduct surveys and gather input to understand employees’ preferences.
2. Not Planning the Space Efficiently as per the Needs of the Organisation
Effective space planning is critical to avoid chaotic and uncomfortable workspaces. Crowded workspace areas can lead to distractions, making it difficult for people to concentrate. While on the other hand, sparse arrangements can make employees feel isolated. Hence, it is important to create a balanced layout that allows the staff to collaborate efficiently and provides a quiet space to work.
3. Ignoring the Necessity of Ergonomic Furniture to Facilitate Productivity
For all the people hunching over their laptops for countless hours, ergonomic furniture has become the need of the hour. As the regular desk and chair might not give enough support to the body, gradually resulting in health issues like back pain and other back problems. Hence, investing in a quality ergonomic setup will help to overcome this issue. A comfortable workspace contributes towards increased productivity.
4. Not having Appropriate Natural Lighting Coming Inside the Work Space
Light plays a pivotal role in the office interiors. Researchers suggest that natural light tends to revamp mood, lessen eye strain and improve potency. Therefore, open layouts and glass windows should be considered to maximise natural light. If your area lacks natural light, then incorporate lighting solutions that mimic daylight. Many offices with inadequate natural light choose fluorescent light that might be harsh.
5. Not Including Break Areas Leading to a Demotivated Workforce
Break areas are another essential part of the office interiors. They are pivotal in boosting productivity by helping employees unwind and recharge. This also helps to foster a positive work environment by giving a mental break from continuous work. Therefore, not including dedicated space for relaxation and socialising can lead to burnout and decreased morale.
6. Not Considering Storage Needs Resulting in Clutter
Insufficient storage in an office can create a lot of disorganisation in the company. And also impacts both the company’s aesthetics and its employees’ productivity. Therefore, planning for adequate storage like cabinets, lockers, mobile storage, and shelves can be a great addition to your office interiors. This will help to declutter the space while maintaining a tidy workplace.
7. Ignoring the Colours which Affect the Mood and Productivity
The colours of the surroundings are equally important in uplifting the mood. A good colour scheme can instantly enhance mood and contribute to work efficiency. So opting for a good colour combination that can please the minds and create a calm working environment.
8. Not Giving Enough Importance to Acoustics
Noise in a workplace can impact the employee’s focus on work. Failing to address this issue can create an unacceptable atmosphere for a healthy workspace. Thus, companies must consider incorporating sound-absorbing materials like acoustics panels, ceiling tiles, and carpets to reduce the noise. This will create a more peaceful workstation where people can focus on their work.
9. Ignoring Technology Integration within the Office Space
Technology plays a crucial role in doubling the efficacy of the workplace. A poorly designed office that fails to integrate the technology can hinder the work strategies. So, establishing a tech-friendly workspace will not only cut short the time but will also make employees happy. Installing the latest technology in the office will act as a ladder to growth.
10. Not Establishing a Dedicated Space for Greenery
Natural elements are always refreshing, be it natural light or plants! Office designs that fail to incorporate greenery often turn out to be boring and uninspiring. Thus, opting for a biophilic design(including nature) at the workplace can create an interesting twist to your place. Adding plants with natural light and outdoor views will help employees rejuvenate.
11. Cluttering the Space too much with Complicated Technologies
Although integrating technology is important, overdoing it can also complicate things. Always make sure that you avoid cluttering your workstation with complex technologies. These things can be tedious and overwhelming for the employees. That is why it is also better to invest in simple, reliable and straightforward technologies that are user-friendly.
Recipe for Designing an Employee-Friendly Office
Transforming a boring place like an office into a happening space demands lots of planning and thoughtful considerations. Prioritising employee’s needs, planning the space efficiently, installing ergonomic furniture, and providing a luminous set-up along with break areas and sufficient storage can be a game changer for your organisation.
Furthermore, taking care of things like good acoustics, proper technology integration and setting up a naturalistic environment will elevate productivity. Therefore, investing in an office interior designer who structures a positive company culture that fosters employees will undoubtedly lead to the company’s success.
