Office Space Planning Tips for a Comfortable and Efficient Work Environment

At Office Gallery, we create a productive yet comfortable and visually pleasing layout for our clients’ work areas using furniture, ergonomic tools, and technology. Read on for valuable office space planning tips from our experienced designers.

Tip #1: Choose the right furniture

Investing in the right furniture can help maximize space and provide greater comfort for employees. Ergonomic chairs, adjustable desks, and modular storage units allow you to create a configuration that works best for your staff.

Multi-purpose pieces like sofas, ottomans, and collaboration tables also make more efficient use of your space. Additionally, consider adjustable chairs and tables that can be modified to fit a wide range of workers with different builds and postures.

Materials, colors, and textures are just as important as functionality, as aesthetics affect the employees' overall mood and the work environment's ambiance. A pleasing space also leaves a great impression on customers. 

Tip #2: Install proper lighting

Without good lighting, workers can experience eyestrain caused by exposure to dim light or glare from an above-average brightness. Moreover, poor lighting can also make a workspace dreary and uninviting, leading to a less motivating environment. 

Install overhead lighting to provide general illumination, while task lights or wall sconces can introduce softer accent lighting. Natural light should also be a consideration; adding windows or skylights will bring in natural sunlight and make the office more inviting.

Tip #3: Position devices and equipment strategically

Positioning technology and equipment in the right spots can help you maximize office space. 

For instance, you should have a designated area for printers and copiers that's easily accessible to everyone. Desks should be positioned in a way that allows team members to talk with each other easily and collaborate on projects seamlessly. Computers should be placed on desks in comfortable positions to address ergonomic needs like visibility, reach, and posture.

Considering cord lengths and accessibility to power outlets also helps save time during setup and configuration. Thoughtful office space planning is essential for creating productive spaces that allow workers to perform better.‍

Tip #4: Create a space for collaboration

Companies must strive to create workspaces that promote an open, collaborative environment. A good office layout should utilize comfortable furniture and plenty of common areas where employees can meet to brainstorm ideas and problem-solve.

Open floor plans are often preferred as they make work areas more accessible while allowing personal bubbles to be created when needed. By creating dedicated and meaningful spaces tailored to collaboration, teams will reach desired results faster.

Tip #5: Dedicate a space for relaxation

Creating an office space for relaxation is essential for remaining productive and healthy. Studies have shown that regular breaks can increase creativity and reduce stress levels while sitting in a new environment can give us renewed energy.

This space should have comfortable seating, bright colors, and interesting visual elements—ideally, something that provides mental escapism and soothes the senses. Employees will benefit from having a space to clear their minds and use as a physical buffer between work and home, enabling them to leave their stress at the office.

Tip #6: Design with variety in mind

Think of the office in terms of zones—meeting areas, breakout spaces, and quiet areas for personal work and conversation. Creating different workspaces within the existing area allows for tailored usage and encourages employees to move throughout the day. Variety boosts productivity and creativity.

Tip #7: Add character and personality

Breathe some life into your office by adding decorations with discretion. Less is more; a single bright artwork, an accent rug, or well-placed plants can make all the difference in sprucing dull spaces. Decorations should not overwhelm the work atmosphere, but instead be carefully chosen to reflect the office's purpose, tone, and aesthetic preferences.

Let’s Start Planning Your Office Space

At Office Gallery, we take the guesswork out of office space planning. We can help with design, layout, furniture selection, and more. Our team provides bespoke solutions that incorporate ergonomics, workflows, sustainability, and aesthetics into office design.

We hope our office space planning tips gave insight into what we do. Contact us to book a consultation.