When setting up a new office for your small business, it is important to get the design of the space right. Design decisions affect your appeal to customers, influences how they feel when they are in your office and forms part of the lasting impression they take away. Use these tips to design an office space that presents a professional atmosphere even if your budget is limited.
Choose a Layout to Reflect Your Business Style
When designing a professional office, consider how customers and clients will interact with your space. You want to choose a design, layout and the furniture that positively reflects your business.
There are no one-size-fits-all design rules for small business offices. Give some thought to the customer impression, purpose and culture of your business.
Consider your office needs — will you be having frequent client meetings? You will need an area where conversations can be held either behind a desk, at a conference table or in a comfortable seating area. Furniture style and placement should reflect the tone you want to set in your meetings. An open and comfortable arrangement suggests collaboration, while a desk between you suggests authority.
Are you a service-based business that relies on customer traffic for your business? Your needs will be different. A small desk in a back office may work for employees’ needs. However, you may need tables and chairs, unique lighting and decor, or comfortable seating options in your main area.
Are you a business that needs a hub for doing the office work but generally interacts with customers in the field? An office that supports work in the field may require quiet work spaces for employees, creating a need for separate desks in the office. Alternately, if your team works collaboratively, an open office or shared work area, such as a large table to gather with laptops, may work best.
No matter the type of business you own, be sure to include your brand messaging in your design. This may be as simple as framed quotes placed in key areas throughout the office. If you have a distinct logo or brand colors, use them on walls, palette choices and decorative items. The office should reflect who you are as a company.
Purchase Essential Equipment
Every small business office should be equipped with the materials and tools employees need to do their jobs.
For most small businesses, these include:
- Computers or laptops
- An all-in-one office printer
- Comfortable desks, tables and chairs
- Glass dry erase boards
- Paper, pens and staplers
- Organizational materials
- File storage
Even if you are on a tight budget, it is worth purchasing good-quality furniture which allows your business to operate smoothly and presents a professional appearance to clients.
One way to save money is to buy equipment from businesses that are closing or moving their offices. Another choice is to compare prices from online retailers who may offer free shipping, such as Amazon, Walmart, Ikea or Wayfair.
Avoid Decorating Faux Pas
The decor in your office should reflect the kind of work your company does. For example, if your business is a conservative brand specializing in legal or financial services, neutral colors are a safe choice. For a creative start-up, brighter colors can be an impactful choice.
However, it’s important not to go overboard: too many bold or dark colors can make a small space feel claustrophobic. Avoid controversial decorative pieces or art, as well. Personal expression is important when creating your own business office, but tasteful choices are best.
A great bit of advice comes from Clarus: Keep the office free of clutter and avoid overwhelming decor. A simple design with complementary color choices will keep your office looking professional and sharp. Keep accessories to a minimum and leave open spaces for movement.
Designing a professional office space can be a lot of fun. You’re setting the stage for your small business’s journey to success. Use these tips to create an office space that reflects your values and makes a great impression on your customers.
Related: Signs Your Business Doesn’t Actually Need An Office