Modern office fitouts are about more than just partitions and furniture, they’re about enabling the right technology for a creative and efficient workplace.
Setting an office up with the right lighting systems, automated heating, and advanced AV setups has the potential to make the office a hub of productivity and collaboration.
There is also the potential for cost savings. Smart offices can also contribute to sustainability goals through increased energy efficiency and help equip staff for remote work.
Increasing energy efficiency in an office fitout
Energy efficiency and employee comfort are key factors in a work environment as employers seek to entice staff back to the office.
Smart lighting, equipped with motion sensors or solar-based, can adjust depending on occupancy and available natural light. This reduces wasted energy and ensures optimal lighting throughout the day.
The Green Building Council of Australia notes that buildings account for more than half of Australian electricity use, and about a quarter of total emissions.
Heating and cooling costs can be reduced through the increased efficiency of smart systems.
Automated heating and air-conditioning systems work similarly, adjusting temperatures in real time to suit the number of people in a room and the external climate.
This level of responsiveness helps to reduce energy consumption while creating a more comfortable workspace, which can also help to improve productivity.
Adding remote-friendly features to a fitout
The rise of hybrid and remote work is a standard feature of many professional offices.
While there are benefits in terms of a reduced need for lease space, remote work demands a more significant effort to communicate. This requires audio and video conferencing.
These tools allow for real-time interaction, file sharing, and virtual meetings, seamlessly connecting in-office and remote teams. Some companies also use interactive screens or smart meeting rooms.
The installation of high-speed internet will help to ensure these systems operate smoothly, and cabling is a foundational element of office fitouts.
Office furniture in a smart fitout
Workplace health and safety are essential in a modern office. It is a legal requirement to provide an office that minimises injury risk, with strict requirements for company directors.
Adjustable standing desks and workstations promote better posture and reduce the incidence of injuries related to prolonged sitting.
Future offices are set to have internet-of-things devices and appliances to monitor and measure all aspects of the work environment.
Other tech enhancements in an office
Smart access control systems, including biometric scans, keycards, and remote access solutions, enhance security in an office. These security systems ensure that only authorised personnel can enter sensitive areas.
At RAW Commercial Projects, we deliver on-time and on-budget office fitouts incorporating all the tech elements our clients want. Contact us to find out more.
