Following the post-pandemic shift to a hybrid work structure, many organisations have been forced to radically rethink their space usage. Offices are now required to accommodate both in-person and remote working habits, be flexible to fluctuating office capacities, and serve shifting business needs. This can be particularly challenging in smaller office environments where every square foot matters. When considering an office fit-out, make sure to explore features that make the most of your office space.
5 effective techniques for maximising space efficiency in a small-medium-sized office
Open-plan layout
As this is a structural change, it can mean stripping the space back to a CAT-A, but the payoff is well worth it. Boxed-in offices limit space functionality by creating barriers. Open-plan layouts allow natural light to flow through the space freely, maximise visibility and communication, and create a more flexible use of office floor space.
Flexible furniture
When the size of the in-office workforce can change drastically from one day to the next, the ability to quickly and easily reconfigure furniture as needed is a huge advantage. Flexible furniture is designed to be lightweight. It can therefore be easily rearranged to accommodate the common variables of a modern office.
This gives organisations the freedom to open up the space for collaborative projects on days with a smaller in-office workforce, and create additional workstations on days with a larger in-person workforce.
Multiuse meeting rooms
One of the best ways to maximise space efficiency is to consolidate multiple needs into a single space. For example, with the correct flexible furnishings – one single enclosed area can be a traditional meeting room, a collaborative workshop space, and a lunchtime yoga studio. By designing certain areas to be versatile, you can effectively cater for changing employee needs.
Individual booths
Dedicated booths for individual activities – such as work calls, virtual meetings, and focus work – not only facilitate varied working habits but also discourage employees from unnecessarily using space meant for larger groups. This ensures that every square footage of space is used efficiently.
Greenery
Biophilia is often overlooked as unnecessary, however, plants can visually expand the office space by creating a sense of openness and connection with the outdoors. They also make use of previously under-utilised areas of the office, such as corners and corridors.
You don’t need a huge space to facilitate the changing needs of a modern office. By approaching your small-medium sized office design in a considered way, you can maximise space usage and create an accommodating flexible workspace.
