Looking for ways to increase productivity? A drab and cramped office is no place for productive employees, but space and money are finite. So, how can you upgrade your office design while taking into account the limitations of your budget and space?

A good office space makes for happier, more motivated, and more productive employees, so you don’t want to neglect it. Our office design specialists want to offer some strategies for designing an office that your employees will love to spend time in. 

Keep reading for a few tips that can give your small space the productivity boost that it needs.

1. Lighting Matters

If your space has large windows be sure to utilize them to their maximum potential. A well-lit space is integral to an employee’s peak productivity. 

Natural light makes a difference. It’s shown to be more motivating and to improve the overall quality of life for your employees. 

The artificial lights that we surround ourselves with at work put a strain on our eyes. This comes from phones, computers, and harsh fluorescents. Reducing some of that artificial light (like keeping fluorescent lights to a minimum in exchange for natural light) is a great way to stop your employees from getting fatigued early in the day. 

Keeping your windows open and accessible will also make your space seem larger than it is. 

2. Don’t Neglect Storage

When you’re trying to make the most out of your space, help your employees avoid clutter. Clutter makes it harder for them to stay productive and it makes the space look messy.

To do this, opt for shelving units, desks with ample storage, or personal lockers. These storage areas should be accessible for all employees so that they can grab what they need without interrupting their workflow. 

Fuse from Hon takes storage to the next level and comes in your choice of color to match your workplace design. They also offer keyless digital technology to keep employees’ belongings secure. 

3. Flexible Seating Plans and Areas

If your workplace has different “departments”, don’t try to force everyone to sit with the other people in their section. This might seem counterproductive but think about it. 

Your employees are all working together for a singular goal regardless of their specific job. While sitting amongst other people doing the same job might seem helpful (so they can ask each other questions and stay on task), sitting with other people working on the same project in a different way can help aid collaboration and create new ideas.

Having flexible seating areas that are easy to shift around for “group work” can help your employees’ creativity blossom. 

4. Optional Standing Desks

It’s a fact: Americans sit too much. How can we help it when we spend a third of our time at work? 

Giving your employees the option for a standing desk can help keep them awake all day without the need for somewhere for them to go take a walk and stretch their legs. Not all workplaces have the room for a quick walkabout! 

Picking desks that have the option to be both sitting and standing is a great way to maximize a small space and have happy employees. 

How Is Your Workplace Design?

Is your workplace design set up for productivity and free space or are you setting up your employees for fatigue and failure? 

Happy employees need a calming and decluttered space to work to their best potential. A well-designed space doesn’t just help them, it helps you.

If you’re in the market for furniture to redesign for office space, we’ve got what you need. Visit our site or our Fort Wayne office furniture store to find the perfect furnishings for your business.