It's time to design! Add these items to make your office space the foundation for a great work culture.
This article is tailored for companies with a physical office space. If you're looking for tips for remote employee management, check out our last article.
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Keep It Flexible
This space is going to evolve; Your staff will change people and size in ways you can't predict, so keep flexibility in mind. Pick modular furniture pieces that you can easily move around, desks that can adjust between standing and sitting, and signage for any workspace rules you want new teammates to inherit.
Providing diverse workstations can keep the space feeling fresh from day to day. Designate separate spaces for collaborative work, quiet zones, and casual breaks to help your team work in harmony. Consider scheduling days for everyone to rearrange their workspaces, so they don't see the same wall or window every day of their career.
Open & Collaborative
Like mentioned above, it's good to have collaborative workspaces, or breakout areas. Invite your team to enter a space for informal coworker meetings, brainstorming, and conversation.
Make sure your entire team is well-versed on your employee handbook. This will help staff understand what appropriate conduct for the office is, as well as when they're expected to be working.
Modern Tech
You don't need to have the latest technology to make your staff happy. But features like high-speed internet and tech-friendly spaces with ample charging stations are a plus.
Personalization
A shared business space is an opportunity for you, your staff, and your company to show some personality! Encourage your staff to decorate their desk spaces so they feel a sense of ownership and familiarity. Decorate your own space so your team can know you better, too.
Customizing the space with company branding can encourage a sense of community. Wall art, murals, staff event photos, trophies or awards, even a display of some of your product's original prototypes can build team identity.
Wellness
If your staff are in the office just as much as they're at home (if not more!), it's important to incorporate a wellness space. Even if it's a single lawn chair on the office roof, a break room promotes a healthy work-life balance. If you have the space and the means, a meditation room, fitness area, or green space are great options, and can help your staff want to be at work! Instead of associating the office with stress, your staff could find it relaxing and productive.
With everyone under the same roof, don't miss the opportunity to help your staff bond. Schedule regular group activities like team-building games, workshops, and events. The office space isn't worth much if everyone comes in, sits at their own desk, and barely interacts!
Seek Feedback
A great work culture is not just about the physical space, but also the team interactions, values, and relationships. Continuously seek feedback from your employees to adapt and improve this workspace based on their needs and preferences. Your staff will also feel respected and appreciated if they know you're willing to make changes on their behalf.
The Ultimate Office Space Shopping List
Furniture:
Desks (adjustable or standing)
Office chairs (ergonomic)
Meeting room table(s)
Meeting room chairs
Lounge/breakout area modular (and moveable) couch
Lounge/breakout area chairs
Shelving units (modular if possible)
Collaboration Tools:
Whiteboards or glass boards
Projector
Projector screen
Video conferencing equipment
Technology Essentials:
Computers and laptops
High-speed internet and Wi-Fi routers
Printers and scanners
Ample outlets / charging stations
Office Decor:
Brand signage or logos
Plants (real or fake, the more the merrier)
Wall art or murals
Trophies/awards
Team photos
Warm-toned lighting fixtures
Storage Solutions:
Filing cabinets
Storage lockers
Shelves (modular)
Cable management solutions
Workstation Accessories:
Desk organizers
Monitor stands
Warm-toned desk lamps
Noise-canceling headphones
Meeting Room Essentials:
Meeting room scheduling system
Flip charts or presentation boards
Breakout Area Supplies:
Magazines or reading materials
Wellness and Relaxation:
Meditation cushions or mats
Fitness equipment
Wellness room accessories
Relaxing background music system
Kitchen and Pantry Supplies:
Refrigerator
Microwave
Coffee machine or espresso maker
Utensils
Plates
Cups
Mugs
Dish soap
Sponge
Paper towels
Safety and Security:
First aid kit
Fire extinguishers
Security cameras
Secure document disposal bins
Office Supplies:
Stationery (pens, notebooks, sticky notes)
Whiteboard markers
Printer paper and ink cartridges
Staplers and paper clips
Label maker
Personalization and Employee Well-being:
Desk toys or stress-relief items
Employee recognition board
Grab bin / available items for staff desk décor
Cleaning and Maintenance Supplies:
Cleaning supplies
Trash bins and recycling bins
Vacuum cleaner or cleaning service arrangement
Light bulbs and maintenance tools
The Fine Details
Scent plug-ins or diffusers
Seasonal gifts for bathroom attendants
Seasonal gifts for staff
Polaroid camera to capture office moments
Dog treats, food, and bowls for pet visitors