Key Principles of Office Space Planning & Design

When done right office space planning will:

• Create employee job satisfaction and engagement
• Help you recruit and retain top talent
• Encourage interaction and teamwork
• Create a sense of culture and community
• Be functional by accommodating employees different duties
• Make the space flexible in a way that companies can adapt to changing business conditions
• Promote better use of space, assets, and resources
• Promote workplace equality by consistent distribution of space
• Give clients, vendors, and employees the impression that you are fun but professional

Key criteria when designing office space:

• Must take advantage of the latest and greatest in technology.  Office buildings and spaces must be able to deliver maximum connectivity and internet speeds.  Decision makers must ensure that there are adequate phone, power, and data outlets available.
• Natural lighting needs should be taken into account.  Where possible all office spaces (open and private) should be designed to allow natural light and views for all.
• Must balance the need for private offices and open space
• Group spaces must be created to accommodate employees who must collaborate on projects
• Groups of employees in related jobs or functions must be located close together.
• Assistants should be in close proximity of the people they support
• The need to repurpose space has increased to avoid having space go unused for days at a time.  The office layout must be flexible enough to be repurposed for different needs.  Advances in modular walls and furniture have made this easier
• Employees should be seated according to their job functions and what makes them productive.  Workstations that are closed and private can be used for those that require concentration or decision making activities, and open or shared for those in support roles.
• Workstations should be equipped with at least one data and one phone connection, and 3-4 power outlets for computer, lighting, and other equipment for convenience and productivity.
• There should be plenty of shared office space available such as kitchens, conference rooms, training rooms, and work rooms.
• To alleviate noise workspaces should be kept away from the main flow of traffic.  White noise machines and other sound proofing must be used to minimize sound in open work areas.  Hard walls should also be sound proofed to minimize noise between rooms.

Austin Tenant Advisors can help you find the right space for your business and engage the right resources to ensure you design the appropriate office space.  Feel free to contact us for more info.