Just like fashion, office designs change all the time, especially in the past few years. In the olden days, creativity wasn’t given much thought and strict office rules mandating that employees work in their own cubicles made them uncomfortable.

But would you agree that if an employee is spending 8 hours a day, 5 days a week in this office space, they should feel not only comfortable, but motivated, energetic, and relaxed?

By simply making a few adjustments or choosing a modern office space, you may notice some changes in the atmosphere. People will want to work in a fun environment, they will bring more ideas to the table, and they will probably even be more productive.

So if you’re looking to move to an office that offers more design or to change up the current space, here are some office design trends that can make all the difference when it comes to keeping employees happy in the work place.

1. Flexible Spaces

The key to having a flexible space is that it doesn’t restrict furniture from being moved. It allows desks to be adjusted, meeting areas to be easily accessible, and still offer space for employees and customers to move around. Simply working in a different space can make a big difference in productivity and creativity. This can be accomplished by having an open layout or by having movable walls so that the room can be changed into whatever shape is needed at the moment.

For example, if employees need to concentrate on a particular task or their work requires them to have their sound on, they can easily relocate to a meeting room so they won’t interrupt others. Allowing them to work in different spaces can also give them some stimulation while motivating them to become more efficient.

2. Collaborative Furniture

More companies are now realizing that having furniture in collaborative working spaces is important – and a growing trend in the workspace today. As meetings and shared spaces are a vital part of doing business, having furniture that supports these tasks will not only add to the modern design trend but increase productivity.

It’s easy to find collaborative furniture – being that it’s in. There are also various types, including acoustic pods where small meetings can be held conveniently, large meeting desks with outlets so nobody will have to worry about going in with a full battery beforehand, and freestanding media units that allow employees to project their work on a screen, adjustable tables, task lighting, and a lot more.

3. Technology Innovation

If companies haven’t taken advantage of integrating technology into their strategies and daily tasks, they’re falling behind. But why not make it convenient for everyone by mounting a TV to a wall in the meeting room or setting up screen projectors? Keep in mind that technology is constantly being updated, so it’s important to have the right equipment needed in order to work efficiently.

One growing trend for many companies is the use of laptops instead of desktops, so employees can work remotely. Now that work can be taken with them, it’s important for office spaces to be adjusted as well. There should be power around the office that is easily accessible, video conferencing equipment, presentation screens, data ports, smartboards, wireless charging stations, and open seating that allows employees to easily move around without feeling like they’re invading others’ spaces.

Bluetooth technology is becoming increasingly popular in offices due to its convenience and ease of use. With Bluetooth technology, employees can use their mobile devices seamlessly while they're working at their desk or throughout the office without having to worry about cables getting tangled or having limited range between devices like they would if they were connected via USB cables or Wi-Fi network signals. This type of wireless connectivity helps eliminate clutter that can often occur when there are too many cables lying around.

Install acoustic panels on walls where employees spend most of their time (e.g., conference rooms or workstations). Acoustic panels can help reduce noise distractions by absorbing sound waves instead of reflecting them back into an open space. This will help decrease distractions for workers who are trying to concentrate on specific tasks at hand.

4. Natural Designs

Known as a biophilic design, this growing natural design trend focuses on a stress-free environment. Biophilic design is a type of interior design that incorporates natural elements into the built environment. It can be used to reduce stress and improve health, productivity, and well-being. Hence it’s popularity, more and more office designers are integrating this design into their presentations and recommendations for clients.

Popular characteristics of this new trend include large windows that allow natural light to shine in, large, potted plants, organic color, and materials and patterns with natural colors like brown and green. Use plants and water features to bring nature indoors. Plants can reduce stress and improve concentration. They also add color and texture to your office space. Studies have actually shown that this has helped employees to feel more relaxed, focused, and energetic.

Bringing in natural light through windows or skylights can help increase productivity by reducing stress and improving moods. Natural light also helps reduce eye strain from staring at computer screens all day long. This type of lighting is best when it comes from above, since it allows people to see better while they’re working on tasks that require fine motor skills like writing or typing. If you aren’t able to add windows or skylights to your office space, consider adding large mirrors to reflect light into other areas of the room where there may not be enough natural light coming through windows or skylights alone.

5. Comfortable Work Spaces

If employees are not comfortable in their working space, it’s not likely that they will want to come to work. In other words, if they sit in cheap desk chairs or are confined to cubicles all day, they won’t be nearly as successful as they would be if a little more investment was made towards the workspace. When taking the time and energy to create a modern looking, comfortable space for employees, you may notice higher employee satisfaction, lower turnaround rates, and higher productivity.

Some aspects of comfortable working spaces include open seating areas, such as couches where employees can work on their laptops. Some companies are even in ping pong tables, video games, and areas where employees can take power naps to stay energetic.

One of the easiest ways to improve the comfort level of your employees is by providing ergonomic chairs. Ergonomic chairs have been designed specifically with comfort in mind and provide support for both back and neck. This can help prevent muscle discomfort and injury while at work. Ergonomic chairs also include features such as arm support and adjustable backrests, which can help keep an employee’s head at eye level while working at a desk or computer station.

Carpeting and flooring can also help improve employee comfort levels. Carpeting provides extra cushion for those who may be standing for long periods of time during their work day. For example, carpeting could be installed under desks where employees are standing most often or have been standing for prolonged periods of time throughout the day (e.g., retail sales associates). Carpeting can also be installed in break rooms or other areas where employees may spend a lot of time on their feet.

Moving to a New Office?

Whether you’re looking to move for business reasons or simply want a new, innovative working environment, you will want to work with a professional moving company that can handle the process for you. Especially with new furniture or fragile belongings, it’s important that they arrive to your new space in the same condition as before they left. So it’s important to find movers that are experienced, trained, and licensed so you can focus on the benefits of your new office space.

The professionals at Chicago Office Movers not only have over 35 years of experience in the commercial moving industry, but are fully equipped to plan, organize, pack, relocate, and install all of your furniture and equipment at your new location. We ensure to handle all parts of the moving process so you and your employees can stay focused on work with little interruption.

If you are undergoing any office renovations, Chicago Office Movers will proudly relocate and store your furniture during the remodeling process. This will allow you to get that modern office look and not have to worry about your furniture in the process.

Free Estimate

For more information or a free estimate on our office moving services, contact Chicago Office Movers at 312-244-2246 or fill out a contact form. We look forward to working with you soon!

Everyone has to move sometime or another, but seasoned moving customers are well aware that not all moves run smoothly. Professional movers can speed up the moving process, but choosing the right company is also important. If you don't do the research beforehand, a bad moving company can make your moving process even more of a headache. Just as each moving company will differ in their services and prices, it’s extremely important to know what to expect on moving day. So you’ll want to do your homework and research as many vendors as possible.

When researching, keep an eye open for scams and rogue movers, as they will never have your best interest in mind. Once you have a list of movers, here are 11 things to consider when looking for a moving company:

1. Get a Complete Estimate

Any estimator that does a quick walk-through of the building will not catch all of the details when giving you the quote. When calculating, they should ask questions about what exactly you will be bringing with you to your new location. Just be prepared to answer the questions regarding which items will not be going on the truck and will need to be decommissioned:

• Donated
• Thrown away
• Sold
• Left behind to new owners
• Given away
• Transported yourself

Chicago Office Movers can help you with decommissioning items to local non profit organizations.

2. Choose a Company with One Name

You might be surprised to find that a number of companies operate under various names to avoid being assessed by the Better Business Bureau and other online review platforms. Make sure the company has an address that is local and information about their licensing and insurance.

Check for any other name the company “does business as” in addition to their state and federal license numbers. Also make sure to check their online reviews, reviewing any complaints and compliments about them.

3. Never Pay a Large Deposit

While some can’t be avoided, reputable moving companies will not require a large deposit before moving. The service – at least the majority - should be paid at the end of the move. Otherwise they may disappear with your belongings and you have a lawsuit on your hands. When you do pay, use a credit card to protect against possible fraud.

4. Create an Inventory

When walking through your home, the estimator will take an inventory of all your items and furniture to determine the bulk weight of the home. They should also be thorough and check all storage areas, including drawers, desks, lobbies, bookcases, and filing cabinets.

A significant factor of the moving cost will be the overall weight of your belongings as well as the amount of space it will take up on the truck. When presented with the estimate, look it over carefully and make sure you understand everything on it.

5. Look at Reviews

More and more potential customers are trusting online reviews as if they were recommendations from their friends and family. A reputable moving company will have an overall high rating, provided that they have served their customers well.

When researching these reviews, you will find that few to none will have a perfect score. This is OK. Some customers just can’t be satisfied. But it will be up to you to decide which company to hire based on what others have said.

6. Be Aware of Extra Fees

Keep in mind that many moving companies – even those that are reputable – will add on additional fees for specific cases. Things like going up and down more than one flight of stairs, narrow streets, truck transfers, and moving to or from 2-story homes are all likely to result in additional fees. However, this should be noted in the initial estimate, so you won’t come across any surprises when you get the final bill.

You can also call the company ahead of time if you are unsure of whether or not something will incur an additional fee. Just keep in mind that all movers are different; therefore, while one company may include going up multiple staircases in the service, it may be counted as extra in another.

7. Be Aware of the Packing Process

Keep in mind that if you decide to pack your items yourself, the mover is not responsible for any damage to them. But if the mover does packing and things are broken in the process, they should be covered under the mover’s insurance policy.

Before hiring the company, ask about their packing experience and the materials they use to protect items. This will be helpful to know when they pack up your inventory, machinery, or special equipment.

8. Know Your Moving Contract

While some companies vary, there are generally 3 different kinds of moving contracts:

• Binding Estimate. This includes a guaranteed price for the move that includes all additional fees and requested services. If you want to add on additional services after the contract is made, these fees need to be paid within 30 days after the move.
• Non-Binding to Exceed Estimate. This prevents the company from charging for overages to the original quote they provided. The estimate given is the maximum you will need to pay for the services provided.
• Non-Binding Estimate. This means the mover cannot charge any more than 10% above the original estimate. Just know that the overage must be paid within 30 days of the move.

9. Report Any and All Problems

It’s understandable that not all damage to your items will be noticed right after the move. But you are given 9 months to report any damage or other problem to the moving company, as well as to file an insurance claim. So if you open any box a year later and find something shattered, it’s too late.

On moving day, open as many boxes as you can after they arrived at the new location and be thorough when checking for damage. All problems should be listed in details on the mover’s copy of the final bill, and make sure to check it for any changes before signing it.

After making your claim, the mover has 30 days to acknowledge it and 120 days to deny or accept charges for it.

10. Never Sign a Blank Moving Contract

Rogue moving companies may present you with a blank moving contract before adding services and charges to it. Never sign it. Everything – and absolutely everything – must be listed in detail, including extra fees, pickup, and delivery dates.

Always read your contract carefully, checking that all of your items are listed, before signing. If a computer wasn’t listed on the inventory form before the driver pulls out of your garage or parking lot, you shouldn’t expect it to be in the box. You also won’t be able to file an insurance claim for it because it wasn’t listed on the contract.

11. Choose Insurance and Protection Plan

Reputable moving companies will offer a number of insurance plans you can add on to protect your belongings. This way the moving company will assume liability for the value of your belongings moved. Be sure to take a detailed estimate of the overall value of your items before choosing the insurance coverage.

Choose a Reliable Moving Company

While some moving companies can offer better solutions for customers than others, it’s crucial to find a reputable moving company that keeps your best interests in mind. From start to finish, the service should be professional, friendly, and financially accurate. Remember to always stay on the lookout for red flags such as asking you to sign blank contracts, missing items from the inventory, and “rough” estimates.

Work with Chicago Office Movers

If you live in the Chicago metropolitan area and are looking to move your business, check out our professionals at Chicago Office Movers. Our union movers are dedicated to professionalism while keeping your best interests in mind. We understand that many items and furniture within a business are fragile as well as the information that must be kept confidential. As we conduct hundreds of moves every year, we know the best ways to make the process as smooth as possible.

In addition to our services, each of our movers is background-checked, trained, certified, and experienced to provide you with the peace of mind you need during the transition. Our staff will also be able to handle all aspects of the moving process for you, including move management, packing, furniture assembly, decommissioning, and more.

Our union movers will work with you every step of the way. This includes providing additional information like answers to frequently asked questions, a Commercial Moving Timetable Checklist, what to expect from the process, and more.

Contact Us

For more information regarding our commercial moving services or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (312) 244-2246.

Bringing style to a cubicle is a DIY task. No hard and fast rules come into play when uplifting the mood of an office cubicle. The best part of designing the interior of a cubicle is that your personality takes center stage. Add a splash of color, throw in a few accessories, and end up with a comfortable, lively work space into which you can retreat for the entire workday.

1. Embellish a Cubicle Wall

You are surrounded by three walls when working inside a cubicle. As a first tip, these panels deserve the most attention. Decorating the walls is super easy, especially given the cushion-like texture of standard cubicle walls. Tack up calendars, favorite photos, and framed art in a cinch.

Feeling dramatic? Take the cubicle wall panels to new heights. Cover the entire expanse of the panels with colored fabric or wallpaper, like shimmery aqua blue for a tropical feel, bright yellow to evoke the cheeriest of temperaments or even camouflage for the occasions when you feel like hiding out.

When you fancy a new look, the existing wallpaper or fabric can be easily switched up. The temporary nature of hanging wallpaper onto cubicle panels makes altering the ambiance of your cubicle simple and quick. Change out the panel décor as often as you fancy!

2. Perk Up the Floor

The dull carpeting of the cubicle floor is no match for the vividness of a spectacular floor rug. Add a hefty dose of personality to your office cubicle by laying an eye-catching rug along the floor. If you kick off your shoes during the daily grind, the soft rug will keep your feet cozy.

3. Add Plants for Vibrancy

Nature may not thrive in the well-contained atmosphere of an office. But you don’t need trees to experience nature from nine to five. Several plants flourish in the bright, white lights and cool temperatures of an office environment. Just remember to water the plants so they stay hydrated.

Known for growing in limited natural light, the fern is an ideal plant for cubicles. If your cubicle features a window, set an Aloe Vera plant along the windowsill. The trellises of the English Ivy plant accentuate the desks of any cubicle. Little time for care? Bamboo plants are low-maintenance.

4. Add Some Light to Influence the Ambiance

Lamps come in all sorts of sizes and designs, from liquor bottle lamps to rustic design lamps to comical vintage lamps. Unique floor lamps, custom table lamps, bookend lamps and hanging lamps add massive flair. A mandala lamp shade, for instance, is a perfect conversation starter with colleagues.

Bring a lamp into your cubicle and plug it in for warm, subtle lighting. The golden light of a lamp boosts an officer worker’s mood and streams a cozy ambiance throughout the cubicle atmosphere. Say goodbye to harsh office ceiling lights with the placement of a desirable, functional lamp.

5. Add Little Furniture

While hauling in a sofa will not pass in a cubicle space, bringing in shelving might. Cubicle panels are ideal places to install shelving or vertical bins. Shelves can be painted to your preferred color. Supplemental shelves add a personal touch while serving the functional purpose of refining organization.

Office workers may also bring in their own chair to add vibrancy to the cubicle. Consider a brightly colored ergonomic chair to increase physical comfort, an upholstered chair that matches your preferred cubicle color scheme or a chair that features a no-nonsense, contemporary design.

6. Make it Your Own

Adding items that are personal to you like pictures, drawings and handcrafts are some of the best ways to really personalize your workspace. This can also improve productivity as you feel more comfortable being surrounded by memories that are unique to you.

In addition to adding pictures of family and friends, you can also add pictures of your favorite things, such as an animal, plant, flower, car, etc. This is your own space so you can personalize it according to your preference!

7. Incorporate Some Quotes

Adding some inspiring quotes can go a long way and even give you some motivation for those Mondays where you just don't want to be at work! We're also not talking about "Live Laugh Love", but something from celebrities or world figures like Walt Disney, Tony Robbins, Abraham Lincoln or Albert Einstein.

You can certainly achieve a lot if you adopt their strategies and views on life as they certainly did something in life to be successful! So why not surround yourself with your favorite quotes. Below are some of our favorites:

• "The best way to predict the future is to create it" - Abraham Lincoln
• "The best way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing." -Walt Disney
• "The pessimist sees difficult in every opportunity. The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficult." -Winston Churchill
• "Don't let yesterday take up too much of today" -Will Rogers

8. Keep It Organized

No cubicle or office will look good with a ton of decorations and no organization. With a few file organizers, mini desk shelves, pen holders and room to put your papers, you can keep things neat and organized. Outer order contributes to inner calm! Here are some more tips on office desk organization.

Some of these organization accessories can also be personalized. So if you want to paint or draw on them, or even add some stickers, go crazy! The sky's the limit.

9. Make it Seasonal

Of course you can never forget the holidays! what better way to decorate the office space than to incorporate some holiday pizzazz! Whether it be streamers and little party favors for the new year, a little Christmas tree or menora for December, or some colorful leaves in the fall, there are a ton of trinkets available on Amazon to scroll through.

Some people go as far as setting up a whole fireplace right beside their desk, complete with garland, plants and a holiday picture above. That's definitely going above an beyond!

Others have completely gift wrap their entire desk and everything on it! There's also those that set up an entire Christmas village, complete with little lights and cotton padding for snow.

Bonus tip: Think ahead of how these accessories will fit on your desk before purchasing. Many customers make the mistake of buying a ton of items and not having enough space to place them all. That's how things become cluttered.

10. Give It a Theme

Many cubicles have a whole theme incorporated into their working space. Some are straight blue, purple and pink while others will have a full football field mouse pad that covers their full desk space. Other ideas to consider are Disney, holidays, flowers, retro, beach, nature and patterns.

Just be sure that the theme is appropriate and doesn't contain anything offensive or too personal to make others uncomfortable as they will still be walking by.

11. Add Accessories for Gusto

Unless you have a tendency toward minimalist design, go all out with accessories. Even standard office supplies, like deep blue paperclips, markers and bright green pushpins, can be decoratively housed inside mason jars to simultaneously serve as office supplies and brilliant cubicle décor.

Play with washi tape. The variety of designs makes decorating with the tape fun and unique. Stick the colorfully designed tape around the edges of file cabinets or around table-top jars. The ornamental tape provides beautiful accents to any materials or objects upon which it is adhered.

Have fun with paint. Large rocks may be painted in metallic colors, like silver or gold, and strategically placed next to books. The rocks serve a dual purpose—as decoration and as bookends. Add metallic sheens to the tops of the mason jars or trays that house office supplies.

Toys are not just for kids. Mini action figures, stuffed animals, and building blocks line some cubicle shelves for a brilliant effect. A themed approach works best. Customize your work space with a sci-fi theme or an animated one. Avoid the mess of clutter or items considered inappropriate for work.

When your office cubicle is dull and dreary, take decorating your workspace into your own hands. The options for infusing your cubicle with humor, vibrancy or scintillating color are endless! Once you take to reinvigorating your space—just once or every few weeks—your colleagues are sure to ask who is your new office cubicle designer.

Moving Cubicle Decorations

Whether your office cubicle décor features attractive pastels or bold hues, you’ll require the services of a dependable mover, like Chicago Office Movers, during an office renovation or remodeling project. As Chicagoland’s premier office mover, Chicago Office Movers handles moving office goods from start to finish.

Included in the company’s comprehensive business moving services are disassembling cubicles and office equipment, packing and labeling boxes, unpacking and setting up in the new space. Moving specialists also are available to provide assistance with the installation of furniture or appliances.

Moving to another building during an office renovation demands the help of experienced professionals. Chicago Office Movers is equipped with the manpower and equipment to make moving an easy task.

Expect only quality service and exceptional work from our skilled movers. Chicago Office Movers is dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s large and small businesses.

Get a Free Estimate

Before the office renovation or remodeling is set to start, contact us at (312) 244-2246 to get a free estimate from Chicago Office Movers.