How to Fix an Outdated Office Through a 2021 Renovation (And Why You Need to Do so)

The way we work has changed through the years. We are now more open to collaboration and workspace flexibility than ever before. Office interior design has adapted to be reflective of these changes and create a good environment for all employees.

If your company has been using the same venue for a long, long time, the moment could be just right to plan an office renovation.

Outdated office design isn’t just about aesthetics. It could also reduce productivity or minimise chances for employee engagement. The good news is that an office renovation in 2021 doesn’t have to be too costly or extensive in order to deliver an excellent outcome.

Get Rid of Solid Partitions

Solid partitions like the traditional old school cubicle have had their time to shine. It’s now time for them to disappear. There are more innovative and effective ways to create distinctive zones without having to break up the office into many little premises.

Having solid partitions can contribute to various problems.

For a start, these make the office look smaller and crammed. In addition, solid partitions can lead to a sense of isolation and they’ll also diminish the availability of natural light in certain parts of the workplace.

Partitions could still be required to create concentration areas or to meet Covid-19 safety requirements. Materials like glass or Plexiglas, however, are much better and more versatile than a solid construction.

Glass partitions are perfect for meeting rooms, brainstorming areas and other functional rooms that people will use to focus.  While creating the right environment, they also ensure visibility and a chance to feel connected to the rest of the team.

Modern Colour Schemes

Something as simple as a change in colour scheme can contribute to a vast workspace transformation. It can add brightness, character and a lot of warmth to the office interior. A simple coat of paint will make it impossible for people to recognise the venue upon the completion of the project.

In the past, many businesses opted for colours that were considered corporate and “serious.” These included neutrals like white, black and beige, navy blue and grey. The problem with these colours is that they often produce a grim environment and they also make the office look smaller.

Today, you have the freedom to opt for any colour scheme that tickles your fancy.

Pastels create serene and peaceful environments. It’s also ok to add bold and bright accents here and there for more cheerfulness. A vibrant colour scheme that includes complimenting and contrasting tones will add dynamic appeal and modernity to the workspace.

If you don’t know what the right colour scheme for your commercial venue is, do consider partnering up with professionals. Companies like SORDC aren’t afraid of experiments. We also understand the design characteristics that work well within each field and we’ll make relevant recommendations.

The Addition of Informal Spaces

Outdated offices tend to have designs that focus mainly on getting the job done.

Today, however, studies reveal the fact that most employees are chronically over-stressed. This is the main reason why many companies have initiated wellness programs that aim to give workers a better environment and more opportunities to cope with stress.

Informal spaces are a very important addition to today’s office. These include a kitchen or a café, a well-equipped and modern bathroom and a chill out area. Some companies go a step further by planning an office gym, a gaming room or even a meditation corner.

The amount of available space will determine what informal spaces are a viable option. Don’t underestimate their importance! If you want to retain top talent, the organisation should definitely focus on some fun and comfort.

Extra (Clever) Storage

Clutter is a major productivity killer in the office, studies show. If the office design is outdated, chances are that clutter has become a normal part of everyday experiences.

An office renovation can help you overcome the issue through the integration of clever storage in the workspace interior design.

Going vertical instead of horizontal through the use of shelving is one possibility. You can also transform little nooks and crannies into storage units through the construction of custom furniture that will fit such niches.

Concealed storage spaces (for example – a shelving unit that doubles as a movable partition) will help for office space organization without taking away from the workspace’s airiness. This is one more upgrade you should probably plan out with a bit of professional assistance to make the most of it.

Introduce Solutions to Tackle Auditory Pollution

Noise and auditory distractions were common problems in old-school offices. You can see the problem depicted in so many movies – phones ringing, people chatting, copy machines making noise all day long.

Noise is a serious problem that stands in the way of work efficiency. Modern office interior design offers possibilities for noise reduction without having to use partitions or separators.

For a start, loud machines need to be moved to a separate corner, as far away from workspaces as possible.

Smart partition systems, suspended ceilings, carpets, dedicated quite spaces, plants and soundproofing furniture can also be used to reduce noise pollution within every commercial venue.

Work With The Right Partner

Office Interior design and renovation is never an easy task, look for a professional office renovation company like SORDC to take care of everything from space planning, project management, interior design, to the execution of the renovation itself. You need to know you are in good hands. Contacting us is a no-brainer first step to getting your dream office completed.