Whether you’re looking to expand, reconfigure your space or give your offices a fresh new look, a premises refit requires careful planning and execution to maximise the benefits. In this article, we’ll explore three key strategies to help you get the most out of your commercial refit project. Following these tips can help streamline the process, control costs, and create a workspace aligned with your business goals and brand identity.
1. Perform a Measured Buildings Survey
One of the first steps when planning a premises refit is to undertake measured building surveys. These provide detailed dimensions, layouts, and information about the existing building and fit-out. A comprehensive measured survey is crucial for understanding what you’re working with, identifying any problem areas, and planning renovations or reconfigurations.
You can hire professionals, such as csw-surveys.co.uk, to survey your property and produce technical drawings and reports. This will provide the most accurate plans and data to inform your refit designs. Professional surveyors use laser measuring devices and specialist software to capture precise measurements.
2. Update Layouts to Enhance Workflows
Another top priority is reconfiguring your office layout to optimise workflows and operations. As your business grows and evolves, existing layouts can become outdated and inefficient. A premises refit presents the perfect opportunity to re-think your space.
Start by analysing how your teams work – what are the key processes and interactions? How could the space better facilitate these? Observe how the current layout falls short, looking for any bottlenecks or problems.
Then explore layout options that smooth workflows and boost productivity. For instance, you may want to cluster certain departments, create new meeting spaces or set up collaborative work zones. Just be sure to involve employees to get their insights into enhancing the space.
Your measured building survey drawings will be invaluable for experimenting with and finalising new layouts. Use CAD software to easily create different layout options and choose the best design.
3. Improve Lighting for Well-Being
Lighting is another important yet often overlooked factor. The right lighting enhances the workspace, and boosts concentration and well-being. Evaluate if your current lighting setup is sufficient or whether upgrades would create a better environment.
Factors to assess include:
- Ensuring adequate uniform lighting throughout the space. Dark spots can strain eyes.
- Adding more lighting controls like dimmers and motion sensors. This creates flexibility.
- Installing lighting that mimics natural light and adjusts through the day. This aids focus and energy levels.
- Positioning task lighting for intense desk work. Supplement overhead lights for specific needs.
- Choosing flicker-free LED bulbs to reduce eye fatigue and headaches from fluorescent lighting.
Your electrician can advise on selecting suitable new lighting systems and fixtures to illuminate your refitted office. Proper lighting alignment during the planning stages will enhance the finished workspace.
Refitting your business premises involves juggling many moving parts – from surveys and layouts to lighting, decor and facilities. While complex, giving the project due attention will create an optimal and inspiring environment for your teams.