Office revamp

In early 2022, a client's office space fell short of meeting their needs. The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically shifted people's working habits and preferences for office environments. Lacking breakout areas for collaboration or workshop facilitation, I recognised an opportunity to leverage my personal passion for interior design. Taking ownership, I applied my design skills to transform the space into a more functional and inspiring environment for a new working world.

What I was working with

The previous office space was characterised by its uninspiring and neglected ambiance, leading to widespread avoidance among those who could use it. As a designer, it became evident to me that the lack of attention to ergonomics and layout resulted in wasted space, failing to harness the full potential of the expansive floorplan available.

The role of a designer in this context is crucial. By recognising the space's shortcomings and identifying opportunities for improvement, I saw the potential to transform it into a vibrant and much loved functional environment. With key design interventions, from a better layout, ergonomic considerations and elements of creative aesthetics, we have the power to revitalise the space. From a must avoid to a hotly in-demand space by creating an atmosphere that inspires productivity, collaboration, and well-being among its occupants

The concept

The project aimed to promote behavioural change and positive cultural transformation. Key decisions such as moving to hot desks was intended to promote cross team collaboration.

Nature was a key inspiration from the start, reflective of the botanic landscape outside with shades of greens and yellow as core colours. The room had a picture frame view, I wanted to bring nature into the building and promote a new calming space.

Good design ensured flexibility, allowing the room to adapt to the clients wants and needs. From a dedicated quiet workspace to running collaborative hybrid workshops the space could easily adapt.

Consultation

To understand how the space could best function, I deployed extensive user consultation. I spoke with key groups immersed myself in the space to understand how people are moving around it.

Observation was particularly powerful as it allowed me to probe desired requirements. One example of this was strong vocal support for sit / stand desks for everybody, but doing so was a considerable financial commitment and I needed to ensure this would be best utilisation of the budget. Observation cameras over 3 weeks confirmed our exiting sit / stand desks had poor usage, only 6% used the desks in a standing position. It provided the confidence needed that we could reduce the sit/ stand desk order whilst still providing the desk flexibility needed.

Visualising the space

I employed 3D modelling techniques to assess a number of layout options, immersing myself in virtual reality allowed me to meticulously evaluate practical movement throughout the zones. Given the scarcity of space, It was important that each element required rigorous justification for inclusion.

A pivotal decision made by myself was to reduce the desk count from 10 to 8. This strategic adjustment was essential to prioritise collaboration space, aligning closely with the client's objectives.

The right equipment for effective working

I ensured the room catered for every user, regardless of the technology used. The inclusion of singular ultra-wide screens facilitated easy plug-and-play functionality for both Mac and Windows users. Additionally, USB-C and USB-A chargers ensured everyone remained powered up even as technology standards change.

In the collaboration space, advanced conferencing equipment featuring two-way speakers and track cameras ensuring distributed teams could collaborate seamlessly anywhere in the world.

Project Management

With a strict budget and a two-month delivery deadline to complete the project, it fell upon myself to ensure it's timely completion within the constraints set. I assumed full responsibility for design, procurement, budget management, delivery tracking, and overseeing trades, all requiring meticulous coordination.

A significant hurdle emerged in sourcing equipment within our tight timeline, shipping and delivery delays ruled out some initial furniture options. Adapting, I made necessary design adjustments without compromising quality and finish.

Leveraging my design expertise, I implemented cost-saving measures. From custom vinyl stickers designed by myself to up-cycled furniture. Achieving a professional finish unique to the space.

Office revamp

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