Business

6 Essential Things Needed In Any Office Building

By Ryan Bradman | June 15, 2023

Table of Contents

Successful business owners know that the right working environment is crucial to their employee’s productivity and overall business growth. An office isn’t just a place where people come to work; it’s a physical representation of your company’s culture, values, and ambitions. That being said, what exactly does it take to create an optimal office environment? This article will delve into the five essentials every office building must have.

An Efficient Layout

An office layout goes beyond just arranging desks and chairs. It should foster collaboration, facilitate communication, and promote productivity. Open floor plans have gained popularity for their ability to boost interaction and camaraderie among employees. However, balancing this with quiet areas for focus work is crucial. It’s all about creating a flow that works for your specific team.

If your staff must cross the entire office to access the printer, or if the meeting room is noisy, productivity suffers. The office layout should be logical and cater to the needs of your employees. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-thought-out office layout. It can have a tremendous impact on how your business operates daily.

Adequate Lighting

Believe it or not, lighting plays a significant role in employee performance. Poor lighting can lead to eye strain, headaches, fatigue, and overall decreased productivity. Natural light is the best option as it boosts mood and decreases stress.

Large windows that let in plenty of sunlight are ideal. However, in their absence, ensure there are ample artificial lights that mimic natural light as closely as possible. The goal is to create a bright, positive environment that will keep your employees alert and motivated throughout the day.

Reliable Technology

In today’s digital age, businesses rely heavily on technology to function efficiently. It’s not enough to have high-speed internet and computers alone. Your office needs reliable technology: functional printers, projectors for presentations, software for collaboration and project management, and more.

Maintaining your technology up-to-date and well-maintained is important to avoid unnecessary downtime. This might mean investing in IT support to handle any technical issues that arise. Remember, every minute wasted on a technology glitch is a minute taken away from productivity.

Comfortable and Ergonomic Furniture

Long hours at a desk can take a toll on your employees’ physical health. Investing in comfortable and ergonomic furniture can significantly enhance their work experience. This includes adjustable chairs that support posture, desks at the right height to prevent neck and shoulder strain, and perhaps even options for standing desks.

Ergonomics isn’t just about comfort; it’s about ensuring your employees can work safely and productively. Also, consider breakout furniture like couches or lounge chairs, which can provide a refreshing change of scenery during breaks or informal meetings.

Essential Washroom Facilities

No office is complete without attention to its washroom facilities. Often overlooked in office design, the quality of your washroom says a lot about your company. Providing clean, well-stocked, and well-maintained washrooms is not just a legal requirement but also contributes to your employees’ overall comfort and satisfaction.

The state of your office washrooms can impact the health and well-being of your team. Unclean washrooms can be a breeding ground for germs, leading to illnesses that could keep your employees away from work. Regular cleaning should be a priority; hiring a dedicated cleaning staff can be a good investment if your office is large enough.

Beyond cleanliness, consider the supplies available in your washrooms. Toilet paper, soap, hand dryers or paper towels are a given. Still, you can go a step further by providing additional amenities such as sanitary products, hand lotion, and perhaps even shower facilities for those who cycle to work or hit the gym during lunch.

Sanitary bins will also be something that your office washroom will need. You should opt for modern sanitary bins, rather than traditional ones if possible. You should consult experts that know all about sanitary bins, such as Whoosh, who can explain the benefits of these modern solutions for your female staff.

Having adequate facilities for all employees, including those with disabilities. If you have the space, consider offering gender-neutral toilets, too. This inclusion can go a long way towards making all employees feel comfortable and catered for in their workplace.

Well-equipped Common Areas

Common areas, including kitchens, lounges, and breakout spaces, often go overlooked in office design but are equally important. These areas provide a space for employees to relax, eat, and socialize, contributing to a more enjoyable workplace and fostering a stronger team culture.

A well-stocked kitchen can make a big difference in the daily lives of your employees. Simple additions like a coffee machine, a fridge to store meals, and a microwave can make lunch breaks more enjoyable. Lounges and breakout spaces should be comfortable and inviting, encouraging employees to take a breather and recharge during the day. Remember, well-rested employees are more productive.