The refurbishment to an existing office is usually called for when there is a functional or aesthetic need. The company may wish to expand its operations and therefore need a larger space to accommodate its bigger pool of manpower. Or the company may update its interior to reflect its changed brand outlook that it projects to customers. An upcoming lease expiry may prompt you to evaluate the decision to stay put or to move on. One concern of refurbishment exercises is the careful planning of works to accommodate staff’s working at the same time, for time is money after all. Other things to note in a refurbishment include:
Purpose of refurbishment
Refurbishment costs can amount to quite a bit; hence, the purpose of the refurbishment should be addressed foremost in the design and spatial plan. Need a bigger space with allowance for expansion? Need more discussion areas? All these need to be factored into the design; either someone will have a smaller worktable or the pantry needs to be pulled down. Having a clear understanding right at the outset is important because the project may be delayed or postponed. Other times, multiple rounds of designs may need to be proposed before the interior gets finalised. When this happens, many may lose the perspective of the original intention of the design. Hence, the design intent has to be clearly spelt out and revisited again and again.
What to keep and let go
Many at times, companies hope to retain most of their existing furniture and finishing. The company may wish to promote their corporate social responsibility and; thus list sustainability as a valid concern. Others are concerned about budget and how it would eat into their renovation cost. Regardless of what the company hopes to retain and let go, the designer should address these concerns and advise accordingly. For example, some of the furniture could be given a new leash of life by repainting or re-laminating; a little expense for it to look brand new.
Expert handling of schedule
Every office refurbishment is usually carried out with the staff going on their usual work activities. Accommodating the staff working means a schedule with interior works being carried out during the weekends. This requires intricate planning by the designer and often depends on its relationship with its suppliers. A good working relationship with both the client – to facilitate the arrangement – as well as the vendors is thus important for a smooth completion. |
