Is there enough office space per employee?

One of the main factors in office planning involves ensuring that there is enough space allocated for each employee, so they can work productively and comfortably. Your employees will not only need enough desk space, but they will also need plenty of room to push their chair in and out from behind their desk, move around freely, and access the tools and equipment they need to do their job to the best of their ability.

Why do we plan an office?

Efficient office space planning is important in any organisation as it allows you to identify the needs of your business and what you require to meet those needs before installing and preparing your office for your workforce. It also allows you to ensure you have the right facilities, equipment and IT needed for your business operations.

How much workspace do employees require?

As a general rule, under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, employers must ensure that all employees have a minimum workspace of 40 square feet per person in any office area.

Why is space planning important?

All of your office furniture and functions need to work together in order to meet the needs of your employees and visitors. Effective space planning can also pave the way for optimum innovation in the workplace, enhanced client engagement, and increased levels of client retention.

How much does a space planner make?

It’s not a case of one size fits all when it comes to discussing a spacer planner’s salary. The amount a space planner makes per year depends on the business they work for and the scope of the task.Generally, space planners working in the UK make around £24,000 per annum.

What makes a good office design?

The majority of companies understand that a workspace is more than an area for their employees to do their job effectively. Instead, it’s also an extremely important business tool that reflects who you are as business and how you want to be seen.

Office Space Planning 101

How to Audit Your Corporate Office Layout From Start to Finish

Office space planning is the process of organising your office furniture and functions for more efficient operations.

Effective office space design allows you to make the most of your available space. It can also increase productivity and morale and optimise performance. Office space planning brings together core aspects of any business environment. From lighting, storage, team requirements, communication needs, to building regulations.

Whether you’re completing a small office interior refurbishment, relocating to new premises, or you’re looking to improve the efficiency of your current corporate office layout, we’ve created a guide to getting space planning right.

How Do I Get My Office Furniture Fit Out Right?

There’s a lot more to office space design than meets the eye, especially when it comes to logistics. Having someone who understands how your business operates is vital. Whether that means you have a designated individual within your business or enlist the help of an interior designer.

It’s far more than making a space look good. It’s about understanding how an area can work aesthetically and functionally in line with your business needs. Thorough planning is required before an interior refurbishment of your office.

To begin with, carry out an in-depth analysis of how your space currently functions. This includes seating plans, as well as a map of any windows, doors, and required elements such as furniture, hardware, and equipment. It is also worth noting how your workforce will move through your office each day and over time.

Office Space Planning: The Five Principles

Choosing the Right Corporate Office Layout

All corporate office layouts should be functional, comfortable and inviting. After all, an unattractive and unorganised office space is hardly going to inspire your workforce to be productive.

One of the first things you should look at is the layout of your space. Make sure that the configuration and shape of your office works with your new layout. Having a complete office furniture fit out will be a foundational step to making sure your layout is right for your business.

Office space design helps businesses to define distinct zones for each department. This includes determining where equipment, furniture and hardware should be best placed. Creating dedicated areas throughout the workplace helps maximise the benefits achieved through your corporate office layout.

Consider Workplace Storage Solutions

In order to keep an office organised and efficient, getting the right workplace storage solutions is essential. With so much paperwork, stationary, filing systems and equipment, it’s important to make the most out of available space. When designing your office space, these should all work around your team, rather than vice versa.

From office cabinets and filing systems, to desks and shelving space, we offer a host of workplace storage solutions. These will keep your workplace organised so workspaces can be clutter free.

IT Considerations

Next, you’ll need to consider the technical aspects. And when it comes to corporate office layouts, IT considerations are just as important as furniture. This is because you want your office furniture to work harmoniously with the other components. Ensure that there’s space allocated for light sources, electrical outlets and phone points at all workstations. It’s best to map out where desk spaces will be first of all, and then position sockets and outlets accordingly.

Office Furniture

Last but not least, workplace furniture! Your workers deserve a dedicated space to work in that is private, comfortable, and flexible. That’s why accommodating the needs of your team should be a pillar of your office space design.

When arranging workstations during your office furniture fitout, think about creating different zones. Create a workflow that complements your day-to-day business operations rather than against it.

If you’re a growing business, it’s always best to avoid built-in desks. Just in case you need to move your office around to accommodate a bigger team in the future.

Want to know about office space design? Read more about office space planning challenges and opportunities in another one of our blogs.

Thinking about revamping your workplace with an office furniture fit out? At BT Office Furniture, we are the UK’s leading brand for office space planning. Our team take all of your business’ needs into consideration and work closely with you to deliver a high-quality solution. Fill out an online contact form to be contacted by one of our experts or give us a call on 0800 298 7033. You can also get some inspiration by visiting one of our many showrooms across the UK.