7 Tips for Designing a Modern Functional Office

The modern office has transformed from a cold corporate setting into a cosy, home-inspired work space. Enchanting co-working spaces and enjoyable offices for close-knit business communities are now the ideal models of a work environment. Creating such a workplace for your employees requires you to implement certain modern design solutions and adopt an innovative approach.

Create an open space

The open office floor layout has completely replaced the traditional office design. All modern offices, be it co-working or private spaces, aim at implementing a functional open design that will promote collaboration and togetherness among employees. Introducing such a layout into your office will enable you to create a more enjoyable environment where your employees can communicate with each other easily, brainstorm and come up with creative solutions and develop a sense of a community in the workplace.

But plan for privacy

It’s important that you realize that an open office design is a double-edged sword and it needs to be introduced carefully. If not properly planned, it can actually hinder office productivity by bringing a lot of distractions into your workplace. Thus, you need to ensure that your employees have enough opportunities for private work. You need to provide them with personal spaces that will allow them to focus on their tasks at hand. Introducing low dividers can be a practical solution, especially if you choose a movable design. Dividers will provide your employees with privacy while still maintaining an open, cosy atmosphere.

Design dedicated zones

Another great way to maximize the functionality of your office is to create different zones, each one with a specific purpose. Nowadays, modern offices provide their employees with everything from fully equipped kitchens and bars to shower spaces and wellness centers. You don’t have to go overboard, but simply introduce several zones that will contribute to your employees’ efficiency, satisfaction and well-being. A homey kitchen with a lounge area, a recreation space and an inspiring collaborative space are some of the must-haves of the modern office environment.

Introduce the brand

Companies across the world, both aspiring start-ups and global giants, implement design solutions that will help them create a brand-conscious office ambiance. The brand should be deeply rooted in every aspect of your business operations. For instance, the foremost experts for Hong Kong interior design help their clients develop and express their brands coherently and in accordance with their work environment. It’s important that you establish a strong visual identity that will be reflected in your office design and across other domains because this will provide both your employees and customers with a more meaningful brand-inspired experience.

Go with a functional design

Functionality is one of the crucial factors that you need to include in your office design. Your workplace should provide the employees with the highest level of convenience and accessibility in order to boost their productivity. Introducing adjustable solutions, double-duty furniture pieces and portable elements will allow you to modify your office depending on your employees’ needs. Office equipment should be practically arranged and supplies neatly stored, ensuring an exceptional traffic flow in your workplace.

Keep it clutter-free and organised

Organisation is one of the key elements of designing a productive, functional and inspiring office environment. Not only do clutter and mess have a negative impact on your employees’ productivity, but they can also affect their state of mind, which will hamper their job performance even more. When designing your cosy, enjoyable work space, you need to introduce plenty of storage units that will help you maintain a clutter-free atmosphere. Your office should have a place for everything and you should encourage your employees to contribute to the office organisation by tidying up their desks and work areas.

Green it up

Biophilic design is one of the most popular office trends that has gained great popularity over the past few years. The reason behind this lies in the fact that nature-inspired offices contribute to workplace productivity and satisfaction. Greenery can help employees relieve stress and focus while simultaneously making a workplace more enjoyable and positive. On top of all that, plants can purify indoor air, which fills an office with a fresh, airy atmosphere. From maximized natural light, eco-friendly materials and natural finishes to beautiful plants and green walls, there are plenty of inspiring ideas for giving your office a natural touch.

The modern office is about cooperation, functionality and home-inspired comforts that can help you contribute to your employees’ job satisfaction, productivity and well-being while also put your business on the path to success.

Guest Contributor, Mike Johnston

About the author: Mike Johnston is a home improvement blogger and DIY enthusiast from Sydney. He is a regular writer at Smooth Decorator and contributor on many interior design, lifestyle, real estate and eco-friendly blogs. Mike’s goal is to create and share meaningful content that helps and inspires people.