Running an office can be quite a time-consuming and costly endeavour since there are so many things you need to consider. And it can be a genuine challenge to get everything right. A space that’s too cramped can feel claustrophobic for the employees, while one that’s too large will seem unfriendly, impersonal and even sterile, leading to feelings of inadequacy and apprehension among workers.
You must ensure the rooms are getting sufficient natural lighting, which is vital for mood and eyesight and that there’s also artificial lighting that helps employees carry out their tasks comfortably. Keeping the air clean and fresh but making sure the temperature is comfortable at the same time is another characteristic of working space with a healthy environment.
One of the very important aspects, which is so ubiquitous that it often gets overlooked, is the quality of office furniture. You must find items that use the space you have at your disposal efficiently and also help promote collaboration, enhance productivity and ensure the well-being of everyone using it. Chosen correctly, you can even get furnishings that support your company’s identity and become an integral part of your brand.
Considering all these factors, here are some aspects you should consider when selecting furniture for your workspace.
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Sustainability
For a long time, sustainable practices have barely been regarded in businesses. However, in the context of the climate crisis and global warming, several companies have noticed the necessity of protecting the environment. Many have started implementing greener processes and procedures, opting for more sustainable materials, switching to green energy and reducing waste.
Becoming more sustainable is an ongoing challenge, and you must seek to include it within all areas of your company. The materials you use in your office space are also crucial for your overall brand reputation. Green practices shouldn’t be solely the domain of the products and services you deliver and should be an integral part of everything you do.
To achieve this, you must work with a furniture factory that takes the production process seriously, such as Vepa. Their goods blend sustainability with adequate ergonomics and the latest trends in furnishing design. The secret lies in the materials being fully natural and biodegradable. Created from a mixture of resin and hemp, the items are fully recyclable and organic. Since no harsh chemicals or toxic substances are used during manufacturing, you don’t need to be concerned that the furniture could in any way be detrimental to your employees’ health.
Visit https://vepa.co.uk/ to have a look at a wide selection of products that can help you create the workplace of the future. By joining forces with Plastic Whale, Vepa has used the plastics fished out of the Amsterdam canals to develop a collection of circular furniture. This means that used plastic no longer pollutes waters, where it can harm marine life, and then be ingested, in the form of microplastic, when consuming fish or seafood. Instead, it gets to be repurposed and find new life as furnishing items.
Aesthetics
Work is naturally the first thing you have in mind when thinking about the office environment. Therefore, it only makes sense that you’ll want to choose furniture items that are first and foremost practical, and which serve the utilitarian purpose for which they were designed and created. However, that doesn’t mean that aesthetic considerations shouldn’t come into the picture. It’s not superficial to contemplate the appearance of the items you buy, as it can have a huge impact on both existing and prospective employees, as well as visiting customers.
The type of furniture you prefer also helps create different atmospheres. Darker colours exude professionalism and sophistication, conveying that you’re a dedicated professional and take your work seriously. At the opposite end of the spectrum, brighter colours and more contemporary designs suggest a penchant for innovation and flexibility and a more relaxed approach in the working environment. You must inspect different styles before settling on one, and make sure that it’s not just the shades that are complementary but the materials and textures as well.
Durability
Since you’re already aware of the importance of sustainability in the workplace, it’s also important to mention the necessity for high-quality pieces. While the upfront costs can be slightly elevated, the fact that you don’t have to constantly replace or repair them is helpful for both your finances and the environment. It’s also essential to find the right materials depending on the task a furnishing piece must perform.
For instance, shelving or cabinets should be made of metal to support heavier weights. Similarly, all items that are specifically designed to offer sturdy support should be reinforced with metal or created using blended materials.
The glass looks stylish and elegant, particularly as an addition to desks or tables, but it is quite fragile. Since it can be easily scratched, getting such an item means that you must be constantly prepared for the additional expenses of maintaining the surfaces looking neat. Glass also breaks quite easily, which can easily turn from a mild annoyance to a potentially hazardous situation.
Wellness
The concept of workplace wellness has become increasingly more important over the past few years, as business owners started to recognise the importance of feeling relaxed and at ease to be able to do your job well. Safety is one of the most important aspects of well-being. Reducing the risk of injury is crucial for everyone in the office. Ergonomics help lower this threat by ensuring the employees have a correct posture throughout the day.
And since everyone has different needs, you should encourage your employees to give you honest opinions regarding the furniture. Someone may require a sturdier backrest, while someone else needs more cushioning on the armrests. Swivels, wheels, and adjustable features that can fit everyone’s height are also very important.
Choosing the best furniture options for your business can be challenging. But keeping a few tips in mind will enable you to discover the best solutions so that everyone can achieve their full potential and be productive.
