As the workplace continues to evolve, the design of modern office spaces plays an increasingly important role in promoting productivity, collaboration, and overall job satisfaction. Designing a new office space is also an opportunity to create a workspace that reflects your company’s vision, values, and goals.
We encourage open and collaborative conversations with our clients at all stages of the design process, but it is always a good idea to have some ideas or goals in mind. This guide includes the key questions to ask when thinking about your design brief.
1. What is the purpose and function of the space?
This is always one of the first questions to ask, be clear about what the space will be used for. This will help determine the layout of the space and the types of furniture to include. Consider the following scenarios:
- Do you want to encourage teams to collaborate with plenty of open and flexible workspaces?
- Do you need a conference room for training or presentations with AV integration?
- Do you need areas dedicated to quiet individual work or private conversations?
Having a clear understanding of the purpose and function of the space will ensure that the design supports the work being done in it.
2. Who will be using the space and when?
Think about whether clients will be visiting the office or if the space is only for employees. Do you need enough space to accommodate all employees every day? Also consider your employees differing working styles; some may thrive in a busy environment while others need fewer distractions to concentrate, make sure you can cater for all needs. There are several acoustic solutions that can help with this.
3. What is the overall style or aesthetic of the space?
Think about how the business’s brand or image can be reflected in the design. Is it important to use your brand colours or is there another colour scheme you have in mind? If clients are visiting the office, consider if you want to convey a relaxed or professional atmosphere? Also think about promoting wellness by including plenty of natural light and greenery in the design.
4. What are the must-have features or amenities?
Consider what features are essential for your business such as a video conference room or green screen room. Also consider what you could include for employee comfort and wellbeing. Perhaps a wellness room or prayer room, bike storage, a shower or a gym. Having a better understanding of the essential features can also help you prioritise your design budget.
5. What is the budget for the project?
The budget for the design and construction of your new office space is an important consideration that will impact the scope of the project. Decide the key priorities for the budget, such as furniture, technology, or construction materials. Also consider the long-term costs such as energy and maintenance expenses.
6. What do employees and stakeholders want in the new office?
It is a good idea to ask the people that will be using the new space what their needs and expectations are. A recent workplace poll revealed that 64% of respondents said what amenities their office can offer does have an impact on their decision whether to work for an organisation. Do your employees want more break-out spaces for collaboration or socialising? Do they need newer technology to be more productive or is having a more eco-friendly space a priority?
Gathering input from employees and stakeholders will ensure the design produces a space that is well-suited to the work being done and the people using it.
7. What are the sustainability goals for the project?
It is important to keep in mind your business’s environmental commitments and see if there are ways to incorporate solutions for them into the design. Think about reducing the energy usage in your office by utilising more energy-efficient technology, introducing better recycling facilities or committing to only using quality used furniture or recycled materials in the final design.
Incorporating sustainable or eco-friendly elements into the design of your new office space can have a positive impact on the environment, as well as on the health and well-being of those who use the space.
8. Do you need to future-proof the space?
Designing a new office space is a significant investment, and it’s important to consider the long-term viability of the design. Think about the potential for expansion or changes in the type of work the space needs to support. Designing open-plan spaces that include moveable partitions or pods can support the adaptability of the space. Also think about including modular furniture that can be broken down and reconfigured to suit a new design.
Designing a space that is flexible and adaptable is essential to ensuring that your new office can meet the changing needs of your business.
A comprehensive design brief is essential for ensuring that your new office space meets the needs of your business and supports those that will be using it. By considering these key questions, you can create a space that is functional and reflects the values and culture of your organisation.
