Get expert advice on every topic you need as a small business owner, from the ideation stage to your eventual exit. Our articles, quick tips, infographics and how-to guides can offer entrepreneurs the most up-to-date information they need to flourish.
September 30, 2019
One of the best things about starting a new business is picking out an office location and setting it all up.
It solidifies your position as a growing startup and puts you on the path to success.
In this article, we look at how startups can approach office design to maximize your space and the potential of your staff.
Why is office design so important? One study shows that the design of your physical workplace is one of the top factors affecting employee performance and job satisfaction.
Because of this, you really want to go out of your way to create a space that can grow with you while appealing to your employees. Here’s how.
When planning your office space, it’s wise to consider your office as an extension of your business. It should reflect your mission, your vision, your values, and your core products and services.
In other words, it should look the part.
You are in the most unique position to set the culture of your company as well as your employee morale right from the beginning. This is why your design is so important.
By creating a space that matches your company culture and the nature of your business, you’ll find the design ideas will follow.
For example, if you sell children’s toys, your offices should reflect that vibe. It certainly won’t boost employees’ morale to have gray walls and gray carpeting if they’re designing colorful children’s toys.
Next, you want to look at the physical space you have. You might think about hiring an office designer to help you work out the space.
Decide if you want open offices, traditional offices with doors, or something in-between.
You may also want to squeeze in some common spaces such as a kitchen, a more casual lounge area, perhaps an exercise room, meeting rooms, and other unique spaces.
If you already have some team members on board, it can be helpful to get their input on your office design.
They’ll feel empowered by having the option to voice their opinion. Plus, you get to know what they really think about open, collaborative spaces or spaces with more privacy.
Your team can also weigh in on desk and chair styles, technology, conference rooms, casual spaces, and more.
This collaboration can be done in a brainstorming session or even an employee survey.
It’s a good idea to take everyone’s opinions into account because your startup office will be full of many different personalities that will contribute to your overall culture.
At the end of the day, the decision is yours, but your team will appreciate that they got to have input.
You also want to plan for the future of your startup. For example, if you only have three employees now but plan to have 10 by the end of the year, plan for an office space to accommodate that growth.
It’s more cost effective to have slightly bigger offices than to scale your design into a new space each time you grow.
As a startup, budget is generally a concern. The best thing you can do is first, have a budget, and next, plan your office design around it. Factor in 10-20% for overages to be safe.
If you hire a designer, pick one who is known for tailoring designs to the client’s needs, desires, and budget.
You ultimately want to create the best workspace on your budget that makes your team members comfortable and happy and keeps them engaged while encouraging productivity.
Adhere to your brand identity when designing and choosing a space and furniture that is functional and attractive, and you’re well on your way to a great startup office design.
Are you a new startup ready to succeed? Are you looking to get your new business off the ground and watch it rise to success? We are here for you. We can help answer your questions and guide you through the process. Outsource your HR duties, finances, payroll and more to us. Contact Escalon today to get started.
Image: Austin Distel on Unsplash
Neha De is a writer and editor with more than 13 years of experience. She has worked on a variety of genres and platforms, including books, magazine articles, blog posts and website copy. She is passionate about producing clear and concise content that is engaging and informative. In her spare time, Neha enjoys dancing, running and spending time with her family.
We provide you with essential business services so you can focus on growth.
