5 Things to Keep in Mind When Designing a New Office

Embarking on a new office design is exciting (and potentially a little daunting) for any client, and they’re trusting you to create something exceptional.

In addition to great aesthetic choices, it’s also vital to approach your designs with function in mind. Functional design focuses on areas for people to be productive, including private spaces to focus, collaborative spaces for group work, and distinct meeting spaces for your client’s clients.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss five things you should consider before getting your drawings and renderings started on your next office design project.

Architect drawings rolled up on a planning desk

1. What’s working for your client’s office space?

Before trying to improve your client’s office space, you need to get the lay of the land. Perhaps not every area in the office needs to be completely gutted and remodelled—sometimes new fixtures, furniture, and a coat of paint will suffice.

Start by interviewing your client about what they like the most about their current floorplan. Even if there are just a few accents or features they want to keep, it’s essential for you to know so you can work with them. Your clients will undoubtedly enjoy the collaboration.

 

2. What needs to change in the office design?

After you’ve worked through the things that work well for your client, talk to them about their most significant pain points. They’ll probably have a laundry list of changes they want, but don’t be afraid to lean on your expertise and offer advice. Asking your client about the daily running of the office, what activities everyone does in each space, and so on will give you a solid idea of what the office needs to run productively.

 

3. How can you incorporate your client’s brand into your designs?

Keeping your client’s business’s identity top of mind is crucial in your designs. When you visited their office, you could probably tell in the first few moments in the reception area who they were, what they did, and which elements were a part of their brand identity. You’re going to have to capture that same essence in your designs and find a fresh way to improve upon it. After all, if their original space was perfect, they wouldn’t be looking for an upgrade.

 

4. How can you keep the owner’s future business plans in mind?

Every client questionnaire template out there will recommend you ask your client what their plans are for their office over the next 5, 10, and 15 years. It’s just as important for them to think about their future as it is for you to know about it. You’ll want to recommend flexible, adaptable designs and products that can grow with your client as their business evolves.

 

5. What’s on-trend in office design?

It’s always important to keep your designs stylish and tasteful—you don’t want to offer your clients dated designs, after all. You’ll want to do your best to balance what’s trendy with what’s timeless.

If you’re looking for the latest design trends without having to scour every periodical all over the internet, download our Commercial Design Guide. It features over ten of the latest design trends, product recommendations, tips for designing for client growth, and more all in one place.

Click here to download Rampart's Commercial Design Guide for Architects