News
New Year, New Office? 5+1 Office Revamp Ideas for Increased Efficiency
Wrapping up, summarizing, starting anew. The first month of the new year, January, has arrived. Offices are filling up with employees again, everyone is trying to get back into the routine of everyday life, but let’s face it: starting anew is difficult, everyone is typically slow, and there’s a lack of life and energy.
As a leader, you can do many things to boost motivation and the desire to return to work: for example, refresh the office! If you’re curious about what kind of environment can help increase motivation for work in January, then join us, as our first blog of 2021 is about this!
Creating and furnishing a new office or renovating an existing one can be costly and labor-intensive, but it is an investment that can indirectly pay off: by increasing the efficiency, productivity, and profitability of the business, as well as improving employee morale and reducing turnover.
The following 5+1 ideas can be implemented with minimal time and money investment and a bit of attention.
Are you ready? Then let’s dive into the renewal!
1. Clear Out the Holiday Remnants
The first step: remove and store everything that reminds you of the holidays. The Christmas tree decorated during the team-building event, the sparkling decorations in the office, the gingerbread, and the remnants of the Christmas party now make way for the freshness of the new year.
2. Embrace Scandinavian Design
Scandinavian design captures the essence of brighter winter days and the anticipation of spring, so it’s worth drawing inspiration from here. The most important aspect is simplicity. White walls and furniture, modern furnishings, and simple arrangements of objects create a calming, orderly effect, which will be much appreciated after the colorful chaos and rush of December.
Tip: To avoid a sterile look, mix different textures.
3. Incorporate Wood Elements
Wood or wood-patterned furniture and objects create a cozy homey atmosphere, enhancing the feeling of comfort, making everyone more willing to come into the office. If you don’t want to or can’t replace the furniture, simply get some wood-patterned picture frames and accessories.
4. Avoid Clutter
Can you recall an office where every square centimeter was occupied? Unfortunately, we’ve all been to such places, but it goes without saying that this not only creates a negative impression of the work environment and the company but can also become oppressive for the people working there. Ensure that the spaces aren’t overcrowded, as this will make everything look spacious and well-organized, leading to a sense of balance.
Tip: Ergonomics above all. Although design is important, function always takes precedence. The office isn’t a museum; it should be livable, movable, and suitable for work and even rest. Ergonomics isn’t some self-serving charity issue but has measurable financial benefits: fewer sick days, lower turnover, better morale, and higher efficiency.
5. Don’t Be Afraid of Colors
Large paintings or posters, motivational quotes on the walls have an inspiring effect. Most people like abstract styles as it allows their imagination to interpret the artistic chaos of colors and shapes.
6. Add Indoor Plants
Indoor plants incredibly bring the promise of new beginnings to the office. Placed near the window, they absorb more of the weak winter sunlight, allowing employees to enjoy the sight of fresh green leaves!
It’s important for the office to always convey that we and our business are up-to-date and aware of current trends.
If you take these ideas into account when setting up the office, it’s guaranteed that not only you and your colleagues but even your clients will always feel good here throughout the year!
