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The Role of the Mood Board
What is a Mood Board? A mood board serves as a visual tool for communicating the overall aesthetic of a design project. It typically includes a collection of samples, images, textures, colours, and materials that represent the desired look and feel of the design. They act as a blueprint, ensuring stakeholders, including the client, interior designers, […]
How to Create an Office Design Brief
A clear, detailed brief is essential for a well-designed office. When initially embarking on an office refurbishment or relocation, it is crucial to create a roadmap for your project. An office design brief is a document that outlines the objectives, requirements, and direction of a design project. The purpose of this is to provide a […]
Designing for Gen Z in the Workplace
As Gen Z are moving into the workplace, companies are rethinking their office design. Born between the 1990s and early 2010s, these tech – savvy individuals seek purpose, well – being and flexibility at work. Businesses looking to appeal to Gen Z are reshaping their office environments to suit their needs. Companies need to think […]
5 Office Design Problems and How to Solve Them
Designing an office which inspires your employees is essential for business success. The office should be a comfortable, collaborative and productive hub where your people can work efficiently. However, creating a workplace that caters for the varied needs of your organization can be a daunting task. To keep your team motivated, it is vital to […]
How to Support Neurodiversity Through Office Design
Companies are increasingly recognising the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The responsibility now falls on workspace decision makers to mirror these values through purposeful office design. The term neurodiversity has gained momentum in the past few years. Neurodiversity is an umbrella term used for people who have a variety of conditions that […]
5 Office Design Trends
Office design and the way we use the office has changed drastically over the past few years. Design trends like hybrid workspaces, nature-inspired office design and flexible furnishings have become the norm for many offices. As we move into 2024, businesses are now approaching their work models in different ways. We predict office design […]
Office Relocation vs Office Refurbishment
Crucial to business success is a productive headquarters where the heart of your organisation lies. Determine whether your office space creates a positive, thriving environment for your teams to work effectively. To help guarantee a bright future for your business, you have one of two options: an office refurbishment or an office relocation. Determining what […]
5 Ways to Build Inclusivity into Office Design
Inclusivity is key to building the right space for everyone, and it starts with recognizing that each employee is unique depending on their background, abilities, and characteristics. The goal of an inclusive office design is to provide equal opportunities to all individuals, giving employees a place where they feel accepted and part of a community. […]
Top 7 Office Design Red Flags
The office should be a space that delivers meaningful experiences. Today’s employees need more than just the right facilities to be productive, they need a destination office, a space that will make them feel valued, connected, and inspired. By avoiding the below list of red flags, businesses can ensure they get the most out of […]
8 Tips for a Sustainable Office
Sustainability is an important element in office design and a core strategic feature that can help define a successful workplace. There are many benefits to running a sustainable office. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also aids productivity and if utilised correctly, sustainability can help boost company image and recruitment. Here are our top eight […]
Designing the Destination Office
Many businesses are now looking to design their workplace as a destination office. The destination office is the ideal office which embodies the strengths of an organisation’s culture. Through cleverly thought-out design, it encourages human interaction, collaboration and enhances what the home office lacks. Why create a destination office? In the immediate aftermath of the […]
5 Tech Trends Shaping the Future of the Office
Technology is shaping new ways of working and new interactions within corporate environments. Despite the general economic uncertainty, many businesses are investing in workplace tech to increase efficiencies and boost productivity. As of 2024, there are several office tech trends emerging that companies should be aware off. 1. Smart Sustainable Workplaces Global sustainability goals will […]
10 Steps to the Perfect Office Relocation
Moving to a new office can be a daunting task. It requires careful planning and execution to ensure a smooth transition. If you’re thinking of relocating your business, here are ten steps to help you achieve the perfect office relocation. 1.Set a time frame Create a timeline for the move. This should include all the […]
Pros and Cons of an Office Refurbishment
The workplace is more than a physical space: it is a tool that enables an organisations people and processes to work better together. As such, the office plays an integral role in supporting businesses achieve their strategic goals. If you’re office doesn’t currently support your people and your business, you have two options: an office […]
7 Office Design Tips to Boost Employee Productivity
Staff productivity levels can make or break a business. When your staff work efficiently, your company flourishes, creating a better culture, supporting business growth and saving money. Here we’ve listed our top seven office design tips to boost staff productivity. 1. Natural light Designing an office that amplifies natural light is an easy way to […]
How can you make your office sustainable?
Recent climate crises’ have brought sustainability and well-being front of mind for many businesses. Below, we have listed the many ways businesses can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability through office design and accreditations. According to recent statistics by the International Energy Agency, the global building and construction sector accounts for 30% of total global energy […]
Finding the Right Office Space for Your Business
Finding the right office space for your business may seem like a daunting prospect, especially if your business is just starting out. From location to amenities, leasing options to future growth, there are plenty of things to consider. Whilst this can seem overwhelming, an office move should be treated as a brilliant business opportunity. If […]
How to Make the Most of the Office Design Process
The office plays an essential role for many businesses; it can communicate the brand’s identity, ethos, and values. Whether you are moving or refurbishing your office, it is vital you make the most of your office design process to achieve your workplace objectives. The creative process will begin at the very inception of your office […]
How to Support Staff During an Office Relocation
An office move can do wonders for your business and a new location can lead to fresh contacts and opportunities. But while a company may view an office move as a simple matter of relocation, the issue is more personal for the employee. The way in which you undertake your office move can have a […]
The Power of Colour in Office Design
Can an injection of colour motivate a workforce? Can colour inspire healthy minds and bodies? Put simply, yes. The colour of your office can have a huge impact on the overall mood, productivity, and motivation of your employees. So, what does this mean for your office refurbishment or fit out? What is colour psychology? Colour […]
How Long Does an Office Fit Out Take?
The duration of an office fit out is subject to the scope of work required. If your company only needs small alterations to your existing office space, it might only take a matter of days. While larger, more complex projects, such as relocation or comprehensive refurbishment will have an extended programme. The construction route you […]
Are You Paying Extra for Unused Office Space?
Real estate is the second highest cost for businesses, after salaries, yet it is estimated that big businesses in the UK waste £10 billion a year on under-used office space. As most commercial leases last between five and ten years, real estate is also one of the hardest investments to manage. But how do you […]
How to Build an Office Space for a Growing Business
Businesses that are experiencing or planning for growth face a challenge when it comes to selecting the right office space. With companies seeking flexibility in their leases as well as being cautious to not take on more space than necessary, there is a need for considered decision making. Growth businesses need to make good decisions […]
How Much Office Space Do I Need?
The answer to how much office space does my office need has no definitive answer. Every company and organisation have unique needs and requirements. To ensure that any changes you make to your working environment enhance your workplace experience, it is important to plan and follow it step by step. Rather than guessing the things […]
Why Hybrid Working is the Future of Work
With restrictions gone, it is now time for businesses to address the monumental shift in working habits that has occurred over the last 18 months. Working from home has become the new norm, and for many, adaption is essential for business continuity. A study by Boston Consulting Group has revealed that 67% of those working […]
What Are the Five Features of a Successful Workplace?
Many of the shifts towards more flexible workplace models and strategies which we see happening today were already taking place prior to COVID-19. With the rise of remote and flexible working, implementing a successful working strategy is crucial to providing the right work structure for your team, and ultimately to ensuring your business stays productive […]
The Three Core Working Models of the Future
As our working culture and views of the office change, so will the working models we employee across our workforces. There are three core models defining the post pandemic: the hybrid model, the hub and spoke model and the distributed model. Considering over 50% of people want to remain working from home, either full or […]
5 Reasons to Relocate or Refurbish Your Office Following COVID-19
The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we view and use the workplace. With the emergence of new working patterns, many companies are rethinking how they want to use their office moving forward. Here are five reasons why you should consider redesigning your workspace. 1. It’s time to make your space work for you COVID-19 […]
Top 5 Tips for Returning to the Office
Many businesses have already begun their return to the workplace, but there remains a sense of uncertainty regarding that return. The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed where and how we work; the offices we’re returning to look and function differently than the ones we left earlier in 2020. We’ve gathered advice from experts in the […]
How to Transition from a Coworking Space into Your Own Office
Coworking spaces provide small businesses with the opportunity to work in an office environment, without the financial commitment of a long-term let. However, despite the benefits of coworking, it’s impossible to ignore the perks of having your own office space: increased privacy, dedicated facilities, space to grow and an environment that reflects your brand and […]
How to Successfully Move Office in London
London is an international hub for investment and trade, and dominates the UK economy. Over half of the UK’s top 100 listed companies (the FTSE 100) and over 100 of Europe’s 500 largest companies have their headquarters in central London, according to the London Stock Exchange. Relocating your workplace can be very beneficial for your business; […]
A Quick Guide to an Office Move
Relocating your office can help you meet financial objectives, as well as motivating and inspiring your team. An office move is a large-scale operation to which you should allocate 12 months advance planning per 10,000 sq ft. We have broken down the planning process into 6 key steps to get you started on your office […]
How to Budget for an Office Relocation
Relocating and enhancing your workplace can innovate your company and drive real business results, but sticking to a budget on your office move can be challenging. An office relocation is a significant investment, and so it should be if you want a high-quality office environment that will continue to reward your business for years to […]
How Much Office Space is Needed per Person?
When calculating how much office space you need, there are several important factors which will have an extensive impact on the productivity of your employees and your business. Too much space will have residual effects on your profitability; too little space can limit performance, demoralise staff and restrict your abilities to grow as a business. […]
Can an Office Fit Out Motivate Your Staff?
Nearly a third of UK employees are not motivated at work. An all too easily overlooked factor when considering productivity levels, is office design. The right office fit out can do more than empower employees, it can change workplace culture and boost business. Office design can play a part in switching unproductive, disenchanted employees into […]
Top Ten Tips to a Successful Office Relocation
An office relocation may be due to practical circumstances, such as a lease expiry or outgrowing your current location. Moving office can become an exciting opportunity to innovate your brand, renew business, and lift staff morale and productivity. Upping sticks and moving your whole operation may seem like a daunting prospect, but as with anything […]
Is Your Office Sustainable?
With the increasing expectation that organisations have sustainable initiatives, and the potential competitive advantage this could provide, it is inevitable that you will be looking into ‘going green’ in the workplace. Running a sustainable office can be cost-effective, increase productivity levels, and be utilised as a strategic device to boost business. But as you turn […]
The Ultimate Office Relocation Checklist
Your ideal workspace is not as hard to find as you might think, but you need to be clear about what your criteria are from the outset. Establishing what your requirements are from the get go, and planning accordingly, can make it easier to find the perfect space and save incurring further expenses down the […]
How Long Does an Office Move Take?
Moving offices is one of the most important decisions a business can make. It affects every facet of the business – from staff and client perception through to long-term profitability. When there’s so much to consider on such a small timescale, the earlier you can begin considering the potential timetabling; the easier the move becomes. […]
Workplace Futures: 5 Questions to Ask Before Purchasing New Tech
The technological innovations achieved in the last few decades have formed a revolution in our profession and home lives and recently, it can feel like these disruptive advances are being introduced on a weekly basis. Although these new technologies offer a variety of solutions and services, they seem united by a singular intention: to increase […]
Need Help Choosing a Commercial Property Agent?
On the surface, it can seem that buying a commercial property is similar to a residential real estate investment. On finding the property (generally through an estate agent), an offer is made and if accepted, legal and due diligence is carried out before exchange and completion. However, finding a property that works for your […]
How to Create an Irresistible Workspace
A better economy creates more opportunity for skilled employees… That means a higher staff turnover and shorter average tenure of employees staying put. So how can you make your employees fall in love with the office? What can you do to not only attract the best-of-the-best employees, but retain them so they are happy where they […]
Our 10 Favourite Pieces of Breakout Furniture
One area that’s becoming increasingly popular – both in offices and the furniture market – is the breakout space. Typically, this was an area to escape the prosaic activities of the workstation, but in recent years there’s been a move towards the ‘third space’ where workers can collaborate, hold meetings and touchdown for their daily […]
Design Ideas for a More Productive Office
As you plan ahead for the New Year, now is a good opportunity to take stock of how your office has performed in the past 12 months. Are your employees working at optimum level? Are staff happy and productive? Or could the office environment itself be killing productivity? Far fetched? Not according to a recent […]
Five Signs it is Time to Move Office
When you’re busy with the day to day, it’s easy to miss the clues that it’s time to relocate office. Because your staff is good at adapting to environments, you might not see there’s a problem unless you look closer. What are the tell-tale signs that your current office isn’t fit for purpose? Here are […]
Humanscale Profile: Design Talk
Earlier in October, we went to Humanscale’s newly refurbished showroom for a chat with Tamsin Grosvenor, acting Marketing Manager for the UK, for a catch up on the latest from the pioneering ergonomic furniture manufacturer. Humanscale have gone from strength to strength in the last 10 years, releasing a wide array of tools and solutions […]
How to Banish End-of-Year Stress?
It is almost the end of the year which means company budget targets are looming, deadlines and year-end reviews are on the horizon and heaven forbid you get sick at this time of year. It goes without saying that employee stress levels are on the rise as the festive season draws near. In order to […]
Moving Office? Beware of These Hidden Costs
With any office relocation here in London it’s essential to do your homework before you up sticks. In the first instance, read your lease. As a legally binding contract, it makes sense to read the small print – carefully. Keep an eye out for the following hidden charges and costs you could encounter: 1. Service […]
Office Trends: London Design Festival 2015
With London Design Festival just behind us, we take a look at 3 of the major developments that are changing the shape and contents of the workplace. 1. Mass Customisation The entrepreneurial surge in tech startups, SMEs and micro-businesses has changed the way many new companies look at their real estate requirements. Project teams are […]
Is Your Office Culture King?
The global giant Google is the undisputed king of innovative office design. It’s not just about looks, either. The epitome of Google’s success is that it knows how to keep staff happy. This is certainly true given its new American headquarters under construction. Truly ground breaking… What’s the secret of creating an office culture which […]
How to Choose the Right Fit Out Company
For well over two decades, we’ve seen what the best fit out partners look like – and the worst. Let’s face it, choosing the right team for your office refurbishment is instrumental to its success. Aside from guiding you through every step of the way, your fit out specialist must also ensure the project completes […]
Out with the old, in with the new?
The world of office design is ever-changing… With evolving technology, new trends and attitudes to the office environment, businesses don’t want to be left behind. London, of course, is a global city. With office development on the rise, investment in Crossrail and residential redevelopment, London is once again at the forefront of commerce. That’s why […]
Is It Time For An Office Innovation?
How would you define an office refurbishment? Is it simply about rearranging the furniture, updating old IT systems, or giving the office a lick of paint? Not these days. In truth, an office refurbishment is taking on a new shape. Rather than simply updating what’s obsolete, London companies use a commercial fit out as an […]
Who Wants a Multitasking Office?
Nowadays, a commercial office must tick several boxes to keep everyone happy. In essence, it needs to be a brilliant multitasker! Creating a diverse, versatile environment is no mean feat. Yet with creative thinking, this challenge makes office refurbishment an exciting arena… The goal is to create an intelligent infrastructure to enable staff to work […]
Is Standing the New Sitting?
Office design is constantly evolving. It literally never stands still… New research and technologies offer us fascinating new perspectives in interior design. In today’s office design landscape, employee wellbeing is a crucial consideration. The impact of design on people’s health is something that is without question changing commercial fit outs… Sedentary lifestyles have long been […]
Has Workplace Culture Overtaken Branding?
For many companies in the past, branded stationery, a logo (perhaps) emblazoned in the carpet, or company colours splashed across the office was a fast way to create a recognisable brand. What’s fascinating, however, is how contemporary office design is steering a new age in brand identity. The focus today is to create a design […]
Is your office fit for purpose?
A commercial office has to have it all to be a successful workspace these days… It must be functional, practical, efficient – plus inspiring and relaxing. On top of this tick-list, it needs to be the face of your business too. So the question you could ask yourself now is whether your office ticks all […]
How Much Does an Office Fit Out Cost?
Now there’s a question! And an important one too… As ever, though, it’s difficult to pluck a ballpark figure from thin air since office fit outs are so diverse. Office size, structural elements, space usage, finish quality, furniture choice, technology and building location impact on cost – making it impossible to hazard a guess. That […]
What are Your Office Etiquette Pet Peeves?
Office etiquette rules! Yet when bad design, bad manners and inconsiderate behaviour break all those rules, life in the office can turn into a nightmare! Usually, when small irritations build up into major grievances over time, it can stop others from getting on with their job. That’s when it’s time to do something positive. […]
Can an Office Refurbishment be Built to Last?
An office fit out seems on the surface to be a costly outlay for any business. However, by choosing the right design, it can be a lucrative investment – leading to business growth. Of course, there’s a lot to weigh up. How long could an office refurbishment realistically last? Can tradition blend with contemporary elements […]
How to Cut Down on Office Noise
Sound affects us profoundly. It travels, permeating space – reverberating off of every surface. As an irrepressible presence in a room which can never be switched off, it can lead office workers to distraction. Irritating office distractions can impact on productivity levels – with constant office noise leading to frustration, stress and eventually absenteeism. Your […]
Can Your Office Design Retain Top Talent?
Just how important is your office design in both attracting skilled staff and retaining them? Essential! Losing key personnel is an ongoing problem in business. That’s why it matters that companies meticulously plan their office fit out or refurbishment with staff in mind. What drivers, then, are at work when it comes to attracting and […]
What Does Contemporary Office Design Look Like?
Social Media giant Facebook recently moved into its brand new offices in California. And what a space it is! Though it’s the largest open plan office on the planet, it’s a down-to-earth workplace where people can connect. Mark Zuckerberg remarked how he wanted to create a ‘sense of community and connection among our teams.’ Plus, […]
How Important is Technology to Office Design?
IT is advancing at a rattling pace these days… The scenario of staff chained to dedicated desks with immovable computers is also changing. We’d be so bold as to say that a digital revolution is happening across office interiors… Consequently, IT is no longer an afterthought. How we work is now just as important as […]
7 Golden Rules of an Office Fit Out
Are you embarking on an office interior fit out this year or next? If so, it can be all too easy to lose sight of the bigger picture when immersed in nitty-gritty detail. Whether you’re relocating to a new London location or refurbishing the workspace you have now, see your workplace fit out as an […]
What’s on Your Office Relocation Checklist?
A London office move can be a daunting journey fraught with pitfalls along the way – if you’re not careful. From the initial planning to moving-in day, there’s a bundle of essential decisions you need to get right from the start. Opportunity and risk sit side by side in an office relocation. However, by planning […]
Is Brand Identity Essential to Office Design?
Make no mistake. Google’s new London headquarters set to open in 2016 will once again set the company apart. Its worldwide offices are synonymous with pure theatre. Usually based on a theme, a Google office is awash with zany designs, bright fixtures and fittings, and the highest-spec tailoring. The aim? To create vibrant, buzzing workspaces […]
What’s the Difference Between a Category A and B Fit Out?
The Construction and Property industry’s are full of jargon. Sometimes it can be hard to see the wood for the trees. To keep things simple, here’s an explanation of what a typical Category A and B fit out means for you. Category A fit outs – usually carried out for developers and landlords – turn […]
Office Design Ideas to Get Business Buzzing
Just how important is your working environment? Is yours making or breaking your business? Think about it… We spend our lives in the office. That’s why it matters to create the right working environment – one that inspires staff morale and increases productivity. The world of office interiors is certainly a dynamic place. It’s ever […]
What’s the Art to Moving Office? Timing!
How do you relocate your office without your plans falling apart? Without doubt – in any relocation project – it’s never too early to consider timescales. In fact, it’s a pre-requisite! Moving office smoothly doesn’t happen by accident or guesswork. It needs meticulous planning to reduce disruption to your business, and keep downtime to a minimum. […]
3 Must-Ask Office Space Questions
Just how important is office space? If you are considering relocating your London office, space planning must be in your top 10 essentials list. Without question… When it comes to office space, one size does not fit all! In this age of open-plan offices where cellular workspaces are in decline, it’s more important than ever […]
3 Business Benefits of an Office Relocation
In modern office design, space isn’t a luxury commodity; it’s an essential. How you work in that space has a direct impact on what you do, and how productive you are. Fact. That said, ‘now’ is only part of the story. What about the future? Is it time to: Reassess how your company operates now, […]
Office Interior Design Ideas Fit for 2019
If you are considering relocating to a new office or refurbishing your current space, it is important to consider current and future design trends. This does not concern aesthetics, so much as a modern, functional workspace that supports the productivity of your team. Different generations have different expectations of their workplace, and a successful office […]