Most businesses operate in small spaces that might snap efficiency, productivity, and creativity. Due to financial strains, it may not be possible to upscale the business premises. Instead of struggling to get a bigger office space, the better option is to optimize the office space you already have.

How do you make an environment where your employees feel more productive and creative throughout the day? Office design and furniture play a significant role in optimizing your office space. Here are some expert tips you can use to make the most of the limited office space.

1. Rethink your material selection

In the past, desks were used to store important files and documents. To provide maximum protection of the documents, the desks used were heavy, and they had numerous compartments for storage. Nowadays, files are saved on the cloud and servers.

Therefore, you no longer need those heavy desks that take up the office space. Where possible, switch those traditional desks with lightweight office desks. With lightweight materials, space feels airier and gives an illusion of a larger area. For a shared office space, lighter and comfortable furniture such as multifunctional chairs and adjustable desks are preferred.

2. Desk-orientation

The office design is affected by how you place your desks. Generally, interior designers recommend the placement of desks further away from the entrances. Most people follow the old advice of not having their backs facing the door. If it’s just you operating in the office, one desk is enough.

Nowadays, people are embracing a sit-stand desk as it makes a big difference in how comfortable you are in your office while saving on space. You can start your day sitting and spend the afternoon standing.

3. Maximize natural light

Office employees spend much of their time indoors. Therefore, doors and windows should be opened throughout the day for lighting and air conditioning. Lighting has a significant impact on employee productivity. Research shows that employees work better in well-lit rooms. Natural light is known to boost moods. It also creates a feeling of more space in a small office. Dark areas make employees drowsy and lethargic.

Small spaces without adequate windows can make the office feel claustrophobic. Remove items from the windows so that light penetrates the room. Rearrange the desks so that they are closer to the sources of natural light. If you need privacy, use Venetians and sheer blinds, which lets in light.

If utilization of natural light is not possible, for instance, in offices located underground, opt for artificial lights. Go for overhead lamps, as opposed to the table or floor lamps that may take up space.

4. Multipurpose spaces

Employees can use a single area to catch up with clients, hold meetings, and work there. Multipurpose offices allow employees to do more with limited space. A meeting pod can be used by employees who want to work in a quiet place. It can also be used as a meeting room in open-plan offices.

5. Invest in a layout plan

Unless you are a professional interior designer, it can be tough to maximize your office space. You can get an excellent junior designer with affordable rates to make a layout plan for you. Investing in a professional designer is worth giving your office space a new perspective.

Depending on your budget, the designers can prioritize aspects that need immediate attention, and the job can be completed once you get cash. For instance, if you have a small enterprise that’s growing rapidly, your designer can create a gradual plan for replacing your office furniture. In such a scenario, designers will advise you to invest in quality furniture and items to help you grow your space with time.

One of the recommendations may include upgrading to stainless steel restroom partitions, which not only provide a sleek, modern look but also ensure durability and ease of maintenance. This subtle yet impactful change can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of your office, making it a more inviting place for both employees and clients.

6. Declutter the office

If you are committed to making space, you need to get rid of junk, even if it means testing all your pens to see if they work. Go through your files and assets, and throw away what you do not need. Launch a purging spree and throw away all equipment and furniture that you no longer use. When there is clutter in a small office space, it seems too congested, which negatively impacts productivity. Opt for intelligent storage solutions, lightweight furniture, and smart devices that take up less space.

A well-utilized office should maximize all available space, including corridors, landing areas, and staircases. Those areas just used as walkways to get to the office can be re-imagined and designed into productivity-boosting areas. Think of getting beanbags and stools on the corridors for impromptu meetings. When redesigning your office space, you can expect a little chaos. There are times your team will have to work away from the office. 

KHTS FM 98.1 and AM 1220 is Santa Clarita’s only local radio station. KHTS mixes in a combination of news, traffic, sports, and features along with your favorite adult contemporary hits. Santa Clarita news and features are delivered throughout the day over our airwaves, on our website and through a variety of social media platforms. Our KHTS national award-winning daily news briefs are now read daily by 34,000+ residents. A vibrant member of the Santa Clarita community, the KHTS broadcast signal reaches all of the Santa Clarita Valley and parts of the high desert communities located in the Antelope Valley. The station streams its talk shows over the web, reaching a potentially worldwide audience. Follow @KHTSRadio on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.