Why East London Offices Need Careful Planning
Buildings in East London range from Victorian workshops to converted warehouses, once used for printing, and have since been taken over by the creative and technology sectors. The local businesses thrive in these unique and interesting buildings, but there are challenges associated with the quirks these buildings retain from their former uses. Features such as uneven floors, large windows, and limited services impact the way the space can be utilised. A standard office can be renovated and fitted out relatively quickly and easily, but in East London flexibility comes with trade-offs, as there are practical restrictions to what can be achieved.
There is a wide range of design solutions for businesses when they occupy flexible, full-service, office space. The design can enable different ways of working, and can adapt to different operational and physical demands. A key starting point is understanding how the business will use the space. It is important to take into account real usage rather than planned usage. The location and number of workstations can impact how meeting room space is allocated. Knowing the average attendance of staff and clients can influence how flexible spaces and fixes are incorporated into the design of the office.
Start With a Realistic Brief and Budget
The most successful projects begin with a clear understanding of the details, constraints and priorities of the client, defined in a brief. This includes the expected number of staff, the company growth over the next three to five years, the company’s preferred style, and fixed dates such as the end of a lease on the current premises. Costs, too, are an important part of the brief, and should be clearly stated. The cost of office fit out varies widely, depending on the quality of finishes and the condition of the building, and the level of data and electrical services. Older buildings are more unpredictable. So, it is prudent to include a reasonable contingency in the budget.
Lighting, Acoustics and Comfort
East London buildings are fortunate to have plenty of natural light. With intelligent design, this can be maximised. Positioning desks by windows, using glass partitions to let light penetrate further, and using pale, reflective surfaces can help. Layer artificial lighting, incorporating general, task, and accent lighting, to create a flexible workspace.
Acoustics are just as important. Striking, but echoey surfaces of brick, concrete, and glass help design an aesthetic but challenge staff to work in an environment that is distracting and unproductive. Use acoustic panels and baffles, and soft furnishings to reduce noise without compromising design. Fresh, clean air help staff focus as well.
One final element to make the perfect workplace is ensuring staff are physically comfortable with ergonomic seating and adjustable workstations.
Reflecting Your Brand
You only have one chance to make a first impression, and for an agency that opportunity is often during a meeting in your office. We’ve all been to the kind of law firm where you feel like you’re encroaching on someone else’s office when you enter the reception area. If your firm aims to give that kind of impression, then proceed to select subdued colours. But if your firm wants to exemplify leadership, creativity, and flexibility, proceed to select vivid colours. Creative agencies need colours that send signals of imagination, flexibility, and boldness. Just as important as the colours you select for your office are the materials you use. Furniture and interior fittings made of quality materials send a message of your commitment to excellence. The style you chose should be cohesive and consistent throughout your office. The reception area should be an extension of the meeting spaces. It doesn’t matter how big or small your office is, the style should feel authentic, consistent and cohesive.
Choosing the Right Partner
Experienced staff are the most important consideration when selecting a contractor. The programme and management of a project is as important as the build and construction itself. The contractor needs to have the skills to manage the design and construction process, the supply and procurement and plan the works. The management of the process and programme is essential to the success of the project, as is effective communication to all stakeholders. The ability of the contractor to understand the constraints of working in and the challenges of projects in an urban environment, especially a historic environment, is essential to the selection of a contractor.
If you are considering an office fit out shoreditch businesses can rely on, a specialist who knows the area’s buildings and regulations is well worth speaking to.
Timing and Minimising Disruption
A refit doesn’t need to mean a loss in business. Disruption can be managed by organising work in phases, doing noisy work in the evenings or weekends, and agreeing clear end points. There are a number of steps involved in any fit out. Give yourself plenty of time to get through them, especially for approvals and the construction of any bespoke joinery or fit for purpose furniture.
Lastly, factor in time for the move. Make sure your staff know what’s going on and why. They are more likely to accept and use a new space if they’ve had input into the process. Often a new fit out is part of a change process aimed at improving the way the business operates.
