How to Get the Most Out of Your Office Space

The office is where the majority of a company’s success happens. Colleagues brainstorm and collaborate, making the workspace an important part of productivity. But when the size of the office seems inadequate, it’s important to get the most out of it.

When planning the office layout, do so well in advance of moving in. This step saves the company time and money and simplifies the task of choosing office furniture and other essentials for the new office space. The layout should ideally meet the demands of how the team operates.

1. Foster Collaboration and Privacy

If office employees frequently collaborate, brainstorm, or meet with clients, then the layout should encourage these important work activities. Prioritize comfort. Cushiony couches and ergonomic chairs put staff members at ease, allowing them to focus on contributing to the discussions.

Not every office worker performs well in a team environment. Private and semi-private rooms are beneficial for staff members who are unable to focus in large groups. When planning the office, incorporate areas that feature both shared spaces as well as private areas.

Building privacy pods, for instance, is an opportunity for managers to get the most out of their office space. These dedicated personal spaces can be used for activities other than work, such as making phone calls or reading. The pods give employees private time while being at the office.

Take into account the unique needs of the office staff when attempting to maximize the office space. Give the employees different options for where they’d like to work. Keeping all members of the team happy helps them stay engaged and productive throughout the workday.

2. Use Functional, Movable Furniture

Furniture and its layout should also encourage ongoing brainstorming sessions. The furniture must be plentiful so that all office staff are accommodated. Arrange the couches in a circle to foster the idea of equal exchange and give everyone the ability to easily view their collaborators.

The aesthetic appeal of office furniture can create the desired mood for any type of company, whether it is one that is traditional or fun. However, the functionality of office desks and chairs is equally vital. Movable furniture offers office managers flexibility, while enhancing the office space.

Today’s employees require flexibility. Long gone are the days when fixed furniture overwhelmed the office. Nowadays, flexible furniture, such as ergonomic chairs, better meet the needs of employees, who can move the furniture around as needed. Plus, movable furniture adds extra space to the office.

3. Maximize Storage

An organized workspace is achieved through shelving and storage units. In fact, each office employee should be provided with a personal storage unit. Pedestals, for instance, can be tucked underneath the desk, thereby saving valuable office space. Mobile pedestals are not only useful but can be relocated.

Shelves installed above each desk give office staff easy access to everyday supplies. Dry-erase boards can be hung to communicate important messages. Wall-mounted shelves keep reference books and fun office knickknacks, like photos, within easy reach while not taking up floor space.

Personal storage systems help keep desks neat and uncluttered. An efficient space promotes organization in employees as they work. Desk drawers can be utilized to store pens and highlighters if the staff frequently use paper; similarly, hanging wall pockets keeps supplies within reach.

When optimizing storage spaces within the office, keep in mind their visual appeal. Some office storage options are large and bulky, and others are small and slim. Choose storage systems that complement the office layout, while also meeting the needs of the team.

4. Light Up the Office

Lighting and ventilation are essential when large numbers of employees share a work space. Both features are important to enhancing employee productivity, even going so far as to reduce the number of staff illnesses. A healthier work environment can be achieved by installing LED lighting.

While artificial lighting helps staff members work comfortably, natural lighting is equally beneficial. Employees enjoy having an outside view; so, when possible, choose an office space with windows on both sides. Natural lighting and adequate vents improve productivity without consuming space.

5. Choose Simple Designs

Bold colors, fun patterns, and outlandish artwork can distract even the most dedicated employees. Rather than cause stress and frustration to staff members trying to focus in small groups or independently, choose a neutral design to enhance the office space.

A neutral design features a limited number of colors and patterns and minimizes distractions. After all, it’s difficult to tune out the ostentatious art on the walls when trying to focus on work tasks. A minimalistic aesthetic in the office keeps office staff calm while working and boosts productivity.

Making the most of an office space can be done, even when the office is limited in size. But if you are planning to move your company to a bigger facility or considering downsizing to a smaller one, you’ll need the expertise of the commercial movers at Chicago Office Movers.

Our moving service has a long history of excellence. We’ve moved renowned customers, like Northwestern University and Alcatel Lucent, and we provide the same level of superior customer service to every single customer who schedules a corporate move with us.

The unionized moving crews at Chicago Office Movers are top-notch—trained, licensed, and background-checked—to ensure your peace of mind. We pack and unpack all office goods carefully, whether they are heavy office furniture, delicate artwork, sensitive electronics, IT systems, or fragile equipment.

We load all office items onto our climate-controlled trucks, featuring lift gates and air-ride suspensions, that fully protect your goods. Our customers receive tracking information to monitor the progress of the office relocation. Short- and long-term storage options are also available.

While Chicago Office Movers provides high-quality customer care, our trusted office moving services remain affordable. We proudly help Chicagoland businesses of all sizes relocate with success. Check out our multiple five-star ratings and give us a call today for a free estimate.

Call us at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO) for a free estimate regarding our office moving services.