It’s becoming clear that many employees are no longer happy in an office environment as the push for remote work continues. If you’re an employer that needs in-person workers, this creates a problem for you. You want happy employees, but you can’t allow a full-time remote schedule.
You need to figure out how to design an office that employees will be happy to work in, whether it’s every day or on a hybrid schedule. But how can you do that?
We’re here to help. Read on to learn all about creating an office space your employees will love.
Consider Flexible Workspaces
Flexible, multi-purpose workspaces may seem like a trend, but they’re here to stay. They can help your employees collaborate and work independently depending on their needs.
Standard workspaces in business offices tend to look like cubicles or individual desks, perhaps with a “breakout” area for collaboration or meetings. What if you reworked that model?
Instead, don’t give employees “assigned seats.” Let them decide how they work best, and that may change day-to-day. Provide various types of seating so each employee can choose what’s right for them.
You may have a few solitary desks for employees who prefer to work alone, as well as a few collaboration areas for employees who are either working together or who prefer to work with other people around, even if they’re doing independent projects.
Do your best not to cut spaces off from one another. Having a private room for meetings or overstimulated employees is good, but otherwise, let the workspaces flow into each other.
Prioritize Natural Light
Try to let in as much natural light as your office allows. Depending on the extent of your office renovations, you may not be able to add more windows, but you can take advantage of the light that’s already there.
Replace dividing walls with glass walls so light can move through the building. Strategically place mirrors to bounce light around. Make sure no furniture is blocking too much of any window.
Natural light is the #1 office perk that employees look for. If you want happy employees, let the light in!
Create a Designated Break Area
What does your current breakroom look like? Part of caring for employees is giving them a designated space to relax during their breaks. Create the perfect breakroom for your employees.
It doesn’t have to be large, but it should be quiet and comfortable. If you have space, consider making room for yoga or pilates so employees can get their blood moving during breaks. This can make them happier and more productive.
If employees have a great breakroom, they’ll be more likely to stay on-site during their breaks so they can get back to work faster. They’ll also feel more appreciated by you as their employer, which is essential.
Don’t Be Afraid of Color
So many offices are drab and boring, especially if customers and clients will never see them. Give your office a pop of color to create more visual interest for your employees.
You can create the mood of an office with the right color story. Bold and bright colors are exciting and invigorating. Soft and cool colors are calming and quiet.
You don’t have to have an office full of color, but at least have an accent wall and colorful decor items.
That’s How to Design an Office for Your Employees
If you’re trying to figure out how to design an office your employees will love, keep these tips in mind. Use color, take advantage of natural light, create the perfect breakroom, and consider a flexible seating style. Your employees will love these changes.
At Alpha to Omega Properties, we help our clients design residential and commercial spaces that they love. If you’re ready to upgrade your office, reach out! We can’t wait to work with you.