If you are planning an office refurbishment, there are a number of things that you need to consider before getting the paintbrushes out – after all, it makes sense to get it right the first time around. In the list below, we have covered some of the key factors that should be considered when planning a refurbishment – feel free to use this as a checklist and tick items off as you complete them!
1.Refurb vs Relocate
One of the first questions that you should ask yourself is where you’ll be in 12 to 24 months time. It is essential to allow for growth in your plans – if your current location does not allow for future expansion, you might want to consider relocating. A refurbishment project should have benefits for a suitable length of time, not be a temporary fix.
2.Organisational Structure
The first thing to be considered when refurbishing an existing workplace is the structure of your organisation and planning to use the available space according to team dynamics, customer interface requirements and management supervision. Using computer software to visualise various layout options can be incredibly valuable.
3.Building Structure
This factor may not apply if you have restrictions placed on you by a landlord, office management or building company. If you are the owner of the building, however, you should consider whether any structural changes need to be made. This could include creating a more open plan space, partitioned areas or the addition of storage areas.
4.Communications & Infrastructure Essentials
There are actually many features that are hidden beneath floors or in ceilings and, without them, the workplace wouldn’t be able to function. Ensure that you consider electrical power, telephone and computer cabling, lighting, air conditioning and heating as a part of your office refurbishment. Each workstation and room will have its own needs.
5.Health & Safety
Any new workplace should be safe and well considered. When planning your refurbishment, you should always review the health and safety aspects that affect your environment, especially if you’re undertaking structural changes to the building. Think about fire precautions, mechanical and electrical safety, accident management and recording.
By taking each of the above factors into account and thinking about each of them in great detail, you can help to ensure that your office refurbishment goes as smoothly as possible. The end result will be an attractive workspace for you and your employees. It will not only promote greater efficiency amongst employees but a more productive business overall.