Office furniture can make a significant impact on your office. Think the iconic table tennis tables of tech companies, or the sleek chairs of a premium beauty salon.
Choosing the right office furniture is a big decision for any office fitout. It’s not just about the look, it is essential for the function and efficiency of the workplace.
From the desks and chairs to the storage units and meeting tables, each piece of furniture contributes to the environment where your employees spend many hours of their day. Ergonomic chairs and desks are necessary for workplace health and safety in an office, reducing risk for the business. Functional furniture can also help employees stay focused and work more efficiently, while also allowing for collaboration among team members.
So, how do you find the best office furniture for your fitout? Start by assessing the office space.
Understanding your office furniture needs
To determine what office furniture is required, start by evaluating the physical layout and dimensions of your office space.
Key factors include the available space, the layout including pathways and emergency access, the number of people to be accommodated, whether the office will be open plan, hot desking, or if offices are necessary, and how many quiet or private rooms are needed.
What level of durability should the furniture have? And are there other special factors, such as stand-up desks or oversized chairs?
A clear picture of what is required will help to make considered decisions about the types and forms of the furniture, making purchasing decisions more efficient.
Ergonomic furniture and workplace health and safety
Proactive workplace health and safety initiatives are of critical importance for a business. Under Queensland and national laws, organisations are obliged to provide a safe working environment that does not pose health risks. Directors have a duty to uphold this, and can be personally liable for breaches. This includes the furniture and office set-up.
WorkSafe Queensland recommends an individual approach for office chairs, for example, to cater to all workers’ heights and sizes. Armrests should be in place, as well as options for different chair settings.
Classic office chairs, such as the Herman Miller Aeron, Steelcase Leap, and Humanscale Freedom, are all adjustable to suit a range of people.
Likewise, the workstations should be kitted out appropriately, with the right desk, monitor and chair heights, and potentially footrests, keyboard trays, anti-fatigue mats and other supports.
An investment in good ergonomic furniture could pay dividends in the long term.
Types of furniture for communal areas
Collaborative workspaces are essential in the era of flexible work for teamwork, innovation, and communication. These spaces allow employees a place away from their workstations to brainstorm, share ideas, and work together on projects. When people work from home more, collaborative environments also help build social connections among team members and maintain culture.
But what is the right furniture?
Modular furniture, such as partitions and adjustable tables, is versatile and reconfigurable, making it easy to use in a range of settings.
Comfy furniture makes a statement for both staff and visitors. Sofas, lounge chairs, and ottomans create a relaxed atmosphere that encourages informal interactions and creative thinking.
Flexibility is key. Movable furniture allows for different layouts to suit different activities and group sizes. Consider using furniture on wheels, lightweight chairs, and foldable tables.
Furniture for focused work
While collaboration is important, employees also need private and quiet areas to focus on individual tasks. These areas require comfort and function.
Ergonomic desks and chairs that offer comfort and support are essential for prolonged periods of focused work. Workstations with partitions provide privacy while still allowing for an open office feel. The acoustics are also important, meaning panels, pods, or soft furniture can help to reduce noise.
Reception and lobby areas
First impressions count. The reception area and lobbies set the tone for your business. Comfortable and stylish furniture ensures visitors have a positive impression from the start.
However, durable and easy to maintain materials are important for longevity.
Furniture to fit the brand
Your office furniture should reflect your brand identity with a consistent ‘look and feel’. The colour scheme, materials and design style should be aligned.
Often, neutral colours such as greys, beiges and whites can be used as a foundation to create a clean look.
From there, different materials and textures can add interest and fun to the office.
Budgeting for office furniture
Costs can be saved by assessing the office’s needs and only getting what is required in a way that is consistent with the brand.
Determine how much you can afford to spend on office furniture and budget accordingly.
High-quality office furniture may not be the cheapest, so check for sales, discounts, and clearance events to find high-quality furniture at reduced prices. Interior designers also have access to a range of suppliers, and contacts, to help save businesses money.
Reuse may also be an option.
Overall, furniture is an integral part of an office, providing a functional, comfortable, and productive work environment.
