Whether you are transforming your current office or creating a new workplace from scratch, an effective open-plan office can be difficult to get right. It comes with many benefits, making it so popular, but when not executed thoughtfully, an open-plan space can lead to stress for you and your employees.
In this post, we will tackle some of the most common myths surrounding open-plan, along with our advice on how to prevent these issues. We hope to help you to create the perfect open-plan environment for your business.
Key considerations for open-plan success
Creating a well-balanced open-plan office isn't just about aesthetics or efficiency—it's about understanding the nuances that make an open space genuinely functional and comfortable. Here’s what to consider to make your open-plan office both stylish and practical.
Misconception 1: Open-plan means furnishing your office as little as possible
Wide open spaces do not necessarily require minimalist decor, despite the interior design trends that have dominated office spaces over the last decade. Though it is completely possible to dress your open-plan space minimally, you do run the risk of it looking stark and empty. There is a balance to be found when designing the perfect office floor.
Use furnishings and accessories to add character without crowding, and plan your desk layout carefully. When creating the ideal open-plan area, consider pockets of privacy that can be created using office screens. Not only do they look good, but they make a bit of necessary separation in an open-plan design without sectioning off rooms.
Misconception 2: Collaboration is the only way to work productively
It’s true that collaboration between your staff and an environment that encourages innovation and collective work can be extremely productive. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean collaboration is the only path to productivity. How often have you needed to shut off the sound with headphones or a private space to focus for a few hours?
Working in large groups and constantly conferring can potentially hold back production if it is not structured. Focused individual work must also happen within the working week, enabling action from discussions to play out effectively. A great way to achieve this style of working is to utilise a private office pod, which, depending on the balance within your office, can be used as a space for meetings and collaboration. Alternatively, it can provide a moment of sanctuary and silence for those needing to get their head down on project work and for private client liaison.
Misconception 3: Noise creates a buzz and encourages communication
Whilst a little noise adds to the atmosphere within the office, noise should be kept to an acceptable level so it does not cause a distraction. This is particularly important when staff are dealing with clients on the telephone, such as a call centre. In this case, choosing the correct office furniture and accessories is vital if an open-plan office design is favoured.
Noise-reducing screens can help to absorb noise and prevent echo, and padded office furniture, such as modular furniture or work pods, can also effectively absorb noise.
Misconception 4: Style should always come before comfort
With such a wide range of ergonomic office furniture available, there is no longer a need to choose between style or comfort. Nowadays, you can achieve both. Leading brands offer a range of office furniture that is ergonomic and stylish enough to fit perfectly in an industrial style or open-plan workplace, such as Orangebox furniture.
Consider adding sit stand desks to your office floor for next-level comfort - the opportunity to work while standing or move around can do wonders for well-being, physical health and productivity. By investing in adjustable desks, the environment adjusts to your team's current needs. We suggest the Ratio, a Herman Miller desk, or any standing desk from the Elite office furniture range.
Where can you buy open-plan office furniture?
As experts in the office work furniture industry, we’re here to help you meet your workplace design goals. Whether you want to fully furnish your open-plan office floor or just require some finishing touches, our friendly and experienced team of office furniture suppliers would love to lend a hand. Call us today on 01603 722483, and let’s get to work.
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