7 Design Details for Your Business Premises That You May Not Have Thought About


modern office workspace

Back In Action HAG Creed Chair, From £638

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The design of your business premises is more important than you might think. A carefully thought-out design is critical for your company's success, as well-designed commercial spaces convey your brand's personality and values and shape customers' immediate impressions of your business (before they even interact with your products or services). Elements like lighting, color schemes and the layout blend together to create an ambiance that can either encourage business or drive it away. If you overlook these important details, it may impact the profitability or overall performance of your company. In this post, I’ve listed seven design details for your business premises that you should always consider as part of the design process.

designer workspace meeting room

Mid-century modern office with vase and suspension lamp from Caffe Latte

Lighting

When thinking about the interior design of a commercial space, lighting may not always immediately come to mind. Yet, it plays a big role in creating ambiance and mood. Subtle changes in the intensity and color of your lighting can have dramatic effects on customer perceptions. Try to avoid harsh overhead lighting if possible and use a variety of task and atmospheric lighting (such as lamps and LED strips) that not only feel comforting to your customer, they also highlight your products in the best way.

wine red wall panelling

Wall panels from Orac Decor and atmospheric lighting make this room an enjoyable place to spend time.

Acoustics

While you might not think much about this one, acoustics significantly influence how comfortable customers feel in a space. Loud noises or echoes can be distracting and make communication difficult, detracting from the overall customer experience. Consider investing in soundproofing, softer furnishings, or even background music to absorb noise and create a pleasant auditory environment. Spaces like restaurants or cafes can benefit immensely from a well-planned acoustic design. With background music setting the mood and absorbing noise, it ensures the dining conversation is comfortable and pleasant. Try layering the floor with washable rugs and panel the walls with on-trend reeded 3D wall coverings.

wood reeded wall panelling office

Acupanel® Rustic Walnut Acoustic Wood Wall Panels via The Wood Veneer Hub

Main Entrances Such as the Parking Lot

Entrances are a key component in business premises - serving as the initial point of contact between your establishment and the customer, there is a need to give it significant attention. Part of this involves considering the parking lot (a frequently undervalued area). By investing in reliable parking systems, you'll maximize efficiency while ensuring spaces are utilized effectively. A well-planned parking lot with clear signage and visible marking influences impressions of your business positively. Moreover, offering ample, secure, and easily accessible parking can make your premises more attractive to potential customers, showing them that you value their convenience and time.

Ergonomics

Ergonomics involves creating a working environment that's comfortable for both employees and clients. Factors like chair height and desk arrangement may seem insignificant but are all part of ensuring comfort over extended periods. Striking the right balance between aesthetics and practicality is key so that users don't strain physically when interacting with your premises. Luckily, there is now a wide range of high-quality ergonomic chairs on the market that are stylish as well as practical.

stylish ergonomic office chair

Back In Action HAG Creed Chair, From £638.

Accessibility

If you are a disabled business owner, you will already know how important it is to make sure your business space is inclusive for all. Ignoring accessibility issues is one of the biggest design mistakes made during premise design. Disability-friendly access and design features are crucial and not having a business premise accessible to all of your potential customer base can severely damage a company's reputation. Make sure that simple structures like ramps and tactile indicators are included within the building design. Always make sure that any signage is clear and easy to read and build sensory-friendly or quiet areas if possible for customers who may need it.

Green Spaces

In today's climate-conscious world, integrating green spaces into your design is practical and appealing. They not only promote a healthier work environment but also enhance aesthetic appeal. Indoor plants or an outdoor patio garden can make your premises look lively, lower stress levels and improve air quality.

green plants in office design

A variety of green infoor plants transform this space. Includes the Liam Chair in Navy and Charcoal from Satara Australia.

green wall home office plants

The green from the paint color and the plants brings the outside in. Includes the Milton Table from Furniture & Choice.

Health and Wellbeing Facilities

Incorporating facilities that prioritize the health and well-being of your staff and clients is an excellent investment. This could include creating a designated quiet area for rest or a break-out space with comfortable seating for relaxation and casual meetings. Further enhancements might include adding gym facilities or standing desks to encourage physical activity during work hours. Notably, providing these amenities showcases your commitment to fostering a balanced work-life atmosphere in your business premises.

To sum up, understanding and implementing effective design elements in your business premises can drastically influence its overall appeal to customers. Remember, every small aspect counts towards the bigger picture of customer experience and satisfaction.