Furnishing a new office can be incredibly exciting, but it can also become very stressful if you don’t know where to start. Typically, you are faced with many decisions – from choosing furniture and a color scheme to setting up equipment. In this post, I will discuss how to approach furnishing a new office, what you need to know, and when to seek advice from a professional.
- Before you start furnishing your office, it’s important to identify your needs and goals. If you don’t set goals and identify your needs, you can end up spending more than you intended, and your office may not meet your expectations. Ask yourself: What do you need to include in the space to make you or your team productive? What types of furniture and equipment will you need? Also, consider the color scheme and lighting of the space. Colors can affect the mood and productivity, so it’s important to choose the right colors that match your style and needs.
- The second important thing you need to know is your budget. How much are you willing to spend on furnishing your office? What is most important for your team? Where can you save money without compromising on quality?
- The next step is to determine the layout and functionality of your office that will meet your needs and facilitate the work of your employees. Not enough storage space, too much clutter and confusion can reduce work efficiency. Don’t go overboard with too much decoration.
- Determine the style. It should reflect your brand and culture. For example, if you have a company that deals with artwork, you can choose a more creative environment. The style of the office can include colors, textures, lighting, furniture, and artwork. It’s important that the style matches the goals of your company and will serve as motivation for your employees.
- Use the space wisely. It’s important to make use of every corner of the office. Utilize the space on the walls and use furniture that has multiple functions. If your office has a limited surface area, consider using folding tables or chairs that can be stored.
When do you need the advice of a professional? A professional can help you improve the functionality and aesthetics of your space, which will be tailored to your needs. This can save you time, money, and stress. Professionals also have a broader view of the issues and access to resources that you may not have found yourself. These resources may include products, materials, the latest technology, or even contractors. When furnishing offices, it’s best to work with a professional if:
- you need custom-made furniture;
- assistance in choosing a color scheme, furniture, materials, decoration, and other elements that will be in line with the style of your space and your needs;
- the best solutions that may not have occurred to you;
- changes to the building structure;
- you are dealing with the renovation of a historical building.
In the end, the decision whether to hire an interior designer or furnish the office yourself depends on your needs, knowledge, and budget. However, you should know that furnishing an office is a dynamic process and that your need for space will change over time.