Small offices have the potential to look great and yet spur creativity and productivity in staffs as well as the bigger ones. Because of the space constraints faced in smaller-sized firms, designers often have to think outside the box and come up with original solutions to create a conducive and productive environment. We look at some of the ways smaller offices can utilise to improve business operations as well as enhance flow of communications and employees’ morale.
Foster open culture but respect staffs’ privacy
Research has shown that open offices help to facilitate communications better and improve social relationships among workers. Low cubicle panels or open desks are favoured over high and obstructive panels, the reports say. While this may in fact helps to foster closer communications particularly in a smaller office, it may also be viewed as equally distracting in some circumstances. Thus, a balance is best to be struck between the two options; one way is to offer a mix of collaborative and personal working spaces to cater to different working styles.
Organisational layout
Smaller firms may not be as hierarchical but systems may also be in place. By considering the functions and operational flow of the business, the spatial plan and design aesthetics can be optimised more efficiently. Understanding the business and the scopes of different departments are hence important to crafting the perfect flow for information and; thus communications.
Dual roles
In smaller fit-outs, much thought has to be placed into how the place is being utilised and how the furniture fits in. Furniture and finishing thus play dual or multiple roles in that they have to serve more than a function preferably. So, a wall fixture may conceal arrays of cabinets or a working desk easily converted into a conference table for bigger discussions among others.
Added features
Because sound travels a little louder in smaller offices, added features like acoustic fabric panels and ceilings should be considered. Features like these can help to ensure a more comfortable and conducive working environment for many. The usage of glass and mirrors can make a smaller office bigger and materials such as timber can work the room to be warm and cosy. Also, other perks like soft piped-in music can enhance the office ambience and make the completion of tasks much more enjoyable.
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