Many businesses recognise the importance of good, comfortable office furniture. It allows workers to focus and be productive without worrying about straining their bodies.
Currently, businesses in Melbourne face a low office occupancy rate of only 56%. Part of the reason it’s this low is because most people are transitioning to working from home as it’s more comfortable. How can businesses address this and ensure their workstations are as cozy? The answer is getting the right office furniture. (1)
What To Consider When Buying Office Furniture
When looking for commercial office furniture, there are several key things to consider for the perfect and productive setting. These include the following:
Functionality and Ergonomics
When bringing the furniture to your workstation, you need to ensure that it’s functional and not just filling up the space. Look for pieces that your office and team members need. If there’s a shortage of office chairs, that should be your priority, not buying a couch. To save space, you should also go for multifunctional furniture, such as desks with built-in cabinets.
Additionally, you should consider the ergonomic features as they directly influence your team’s comfort. Sit-stand desks, for one, ensure employees can work without straining their arms, backs, necks, or legs. Don’t forget to invest in ergonomic office chairs as well, but make sure to get ones from reputable manufacturers to ensure high-quality pieces.
You should also have customisable pieces that cater to employees with special needs who can’t use the regular chairs or desks.
If your workstation isn’t a limiting factor in the office, it becomes easier for your staff to deliver and be productive.
Aesthetic Appeal and Branding
Office furniture isn’t just about functionality and aesthetics alone. You must find furniture that reflects your brand. For example, grey furniture can help communicate professionalism in the office. This tells your staff that you mean “business” and can boost their focus. Good thing some furniture suppliers offer custom-made designs that align your workplace with your brand identity.
Here’s another thing: an office doesn’t always have to be a dull place. You can also choose vibrant colours that indicate creativity and innovation. If you run a website design or software development company, having furniture in bright shades can help spark creativity in your team.
Sustainability
In a recent survey, half of the respondents said they prefer environmentally conscious companies. It’s clear that most employees value sustainability, and incorporating it in your workplace design can help boost their morale. (2)
Source furniture from suppliers that prioritise eco-friendly materials and practices, offering pieces made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials.
Choosing green furniture doesn’t just benefit the environment; it also appeals to employees who value corporate responsibility.
How To Design a Productive Workplace
Once you have your furniture, you must design your workplace for maximum productivity. Here’s how to do it:
Space Optimisation
The space in your office will dictate the flow of activities and, ultimately, your team’s productivity.
Getting the perfect furniture doesn’t mean you have to cram your workplace with it. Instead, you must maximise space to facilitate the easy movement of people and equipment. If a staff member wants to access the printer, there should be enough space for them to do so in the shortest time possible. You can also get multifunctional pieces if you’re opting for a minimalistic design.
Maximise Natural Lighting
Lighting is a crucial but often overlooked aspect of a productive workspace. One study revealed that employees experienced an 84% decrease in headaches and eyestrain when their working desk was within 10 feet of the window. (3)
To maximise natural lighting, arrange desks and chairs closer to the window. Secondly, move all the big and bulky furniture from the light’s path so it doesn’t block it. You can also add skylights to illuminate the room much better.
Create Working Zones
Distinct zones for different activities can help your team remain focused and committed to their work.
You can have focused work areas furnished with ergonomic chairs and desks dedicated exclusively for work.
You can also create a collaboration area with communal tables and modular seating. Here, employees can work on tasks and hold meetings without having to move desks and chairs around.
Finally, you can create a relaxation area featuring comfortable lounge chairs and beanbags.
Conclusion
Transforming your Melbourne office into a productive workplace shouldn’t be challenging. Start with the right furniture and focus on a layout that optimises space, lighting, and distinct working zones. Once employees are comfortable in the office, their productivity will kick in quickly.
References:
- Melbourne has the lowest office occupancy in Australia, and CBD businesses are suffering for it: https://www.timeout.com/melbourne/news/melbourne-has-the-lowest-office-occupancy-in-australia-and-cbd-businesses-are-suffering-for-it-031324
- It’s Not Optional: 4 Tips to Create a Culture of Sustainability in the Workplace: https://www.spiceworks.com/hr/engagement-retention/articles/4-tips-to-create-a-culture-of-sustainability-in-the-workplace/
- How Your Office Space Impacts Employee Well-Being: https://www.forbes.com/sites/alankohll/2019/01/24/how-your-office-space-impacts-employee-wellbeing/
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