Upgrading and renovating an office space is something that you as an office manager will need to consider more than once in your career. It can be difficult knowing exactly how to do this and several things need to be considered if you are to extract the absolute best from your environment. When considering your initial design you need to pay extra attention to the functionality of the space. Any business will only be as good as the people who work there so if you want the maximum possible level of productivity then you need to ensure that they have an adequate working space. It needs to be properly lit, well ventilated, uncluttered and be able to provide convenient work surfaces and storage. Here are some ideas on how you can achieve this.
Painting
Nothing brightens up a tired looking office like a fresh coat of paint on the walls. However, you need to pay attention to the colors you choose. Dark colors may look nice but they have the ability to make any space look small and enclosed. You will want to choose a brighter shade so as to open up the room a little. A bright office area will be much more appealing to employees and clients, therefore, improving on productivity and revenue. Sometimes adding little extra touches to the wall can be a great idea too.
"Contact local artists about painting a wall mural on the walls. A wall mural sets a positive mood for the working environment. Using local artists is a great way to improve the design of a small office space."
Furniture
You wouldn't think it but choosing the type of furniture to have in your commercial office space can also be the most difficult task of all and for something like this it may be worthwhile searching some of the many websites, which offer tips and advice, such as ApolloInteriors. When it comes to furniture you should be looking for smart and clean items which all match as nothing looks worse than a mismatched office. You could also improve the functionality of your office by purchasing desks which have built in storage space. This ensures that you will use up minimal amounts of floor space and that your employees can store everything they need with in them, therefore improving productivity also. Another similar option is to purchase corner desks, which is a particularly good idea if your space is limited.
Lighting
How you light an office area has a big impact on the feel of the surroundings for clients and employees. A poorly lit office is going to cause workers to have to strain their eyes when completing tasks. Natural light is the best option so try to add as much of it as possible by using large windows and/or installing a skylight in the ceiling. If you are not in a position to be able to do this then ceiling lights are the best option as they take up much no floor space and can be hung above every single workspace to ensure that they are sufficiently lit, combine this with desk lamps for extra light.
"Lighting throughout the workspace is no longer uniform, but fits the individual needs of the tasks being performed and even of the workers. Some of the ways to place individual lights are to use can light fixtures, spotlights and lamps in various work spaces."
Of course, there are many other design ideas which could be implemented in your commercial office space when upgrading. It is recommended that you consult with an interior designer before taking on any of the projects yourself, especially if you have no previous experience in this particular field.
Showing posts with label office interior. Show all posts
Showing posts with label office interior. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Step By Step Guidelines For A Commercial Space Refurbishment
Refurbishing a commercial space of any kind can be a complicated matter. This is in part due to the fact that, most of the time, some of this space will continue to be in use. However, there are a number of things you can do to make this process as painless as possible. Let's take a look at some step by step guidelines for a commercial space refurbishment project.
1 - Why Are You Refurbishing?
The first thing you have to do is have a really good understanding of why you are engaging in this process.
"Identifying the reasons for refurbishing your office space is critical in ensuring that the finished result meets all of your company's needs. If you think about the 'why' early on, you're well prepared to identify the 'what' when you come to writing up your brief and discussing your new space with your chosen office refurbishment partner."
For instance, you may find that your old office had insufficient light, or too much storage space. Once you know that you will be able to make sure that your new commercial space is actually fit for purpose. This is the first and most important step you will have to complete.
2 - What Is the Building's Condition?
Once you are clear on why you want to refurbish, you need to figure out what you want to refurbish as well. This has to start with determining what sort of condition the building is actually in. If it is in very poor condition, it is likely that you will have to close the whole thing down for the duration of the refurbishment. However, the opposite is also true. Hence, spend some time inspecting your building by getting an expert to help you.
"The first stage of any renovation project is to get a detailed assessment of the current condition of the property. Those buying to renovate should always commission a chartered surveyor to undertake a building report which will identify any essential repairs needed and will recommend further investigation by specialist surveyors into any other aspects that arouse suspicion."
Additionally, this report will highlight the materials that have been used in the construction of the property itself. This sort of information is very important for contractors, who will determine their costs and workload based that info. You may also require a measured survey of the property itself.
3 - Interview and Select Your Refurbishment Partner
Once you have completed these steps, it is time to enlist the help of refurbishment experts. Spend some time reviewing the various companies that are out there for more information. It is recommended to always have at least three independent quotations, which should be without obligation. This will give you a greater opportunity to truly compare the market and find out which company is best for you.
It is generally recommended to have an in-house refurbishment team as well, who should be able to go over the quotations you have received. As a commercial property, it is likely that you have a large staff group as well. They should be included in these types of decisions, because it will affect them greatly as well. Having this team together means you will be able to understand the needs of everybody across the board, which also means that your refurbishment will be far more likely to be a success in terms of functionality.
4 - Your Budget
Finally, you have to consider your budget. Refurbishments are never going to be cheap, and they shouldn't be either, since you should be looking for quality. However, you do have a budget to stick to, and you must work with a company that is able to work within those constraints.
1 - Why Are You Refurbishing?
The first thing you have to do is have a really good understanding of why you are engaging in this process.
"Identifying the reasons for refurbishing your office space is critical in ensuring that the finished result meets all of your company's needs. If you think about the 'why' early on, you're well prepared to identify the 'what' when you come to writing up your brief and discussing your new space with your chosen office refurbishment partner."
For instance, you may find that your old office had insufficient light, or too much storage space. Once you know that you will be able to make sure that your new commercial space is actually fit for purpose. This is the first and most important step you will have to complete.
2 - What Is the Building's Condition?
Once you are clear on why you want to refurbish, you need to figure out what you want to refurbish as well. This has to start with determining what sort of condition the building is actually in. If it is in very poor condition, it is likely that you will have to close the whole thing down for the duration of the refurbishment. However, the opposite is also true. Hence, spend some time inspecting your building by getting an expert to help you.
"The first stage of any renovation project is to get a detailed assessment of the current condition of the property. Those buying to renovate should always commission a chartered surveyor to undertake a building report which will identify any essential repairs needed and will recommend further investigation by specialist surveyors into any other aspects that arouse suspicion."
Additionally, this report will highlight the materials that have been used in the construction of the property itself. This sort of information is very important for contractors, who will determine their costs and workload based that info. You may also require a measured survey of the property itself.
3 - Interview and Select Your Refurbishment Partner
Once you have completed these steps, it is time to enlist the help of refurbishment experts. Spend some time reviewing the various companies that are out there for more information. It is recommended to always have at least three independent quotations, which should be without obligation. This will give you a greater opportunity to truly compare the market and find out which company is best for you.
It is generally recommended to have an in-house refurbishment team as well, who should be able to go over the quotations you have received. As a commercial property, it is likely that you have a large staff group as well. They should be included in these types of decisions, because it will affect them greatly as well. Having this team together means you will be able to understand the needs of everybody across the board, which also means that your refurbishment will be far more likely to be a success in terms of functionality.
4 - Your Budget
Finally, you have to consider your budget. Refurbishments are never going to be cheap, and they shouldn't be either, since you should be looking for quality. However, you do have a budget to stick to, and you must work with a company that is able to work within those constraints.
Monday, March 3, 2014
How To Manage A Cost Effective Refurbishment For Your Dental Office
It's easy to forget that a dental surgery clinic is as much a place of business as any of the stores we see in our towns and cities. Okay, so it's not quite in the same context but still, a dental surgery needs patients, customers and/or clients on their books who come in regularly for treatment. The clinic needs to pay for the salaries of employees, the materials used, etc., in order for it to keep doing what it does. Just like a store with no customers would have to close, a dentist with no patients would also need to close. In days gone by, many dental offices would choose to move to different premises instead of refurbishing the one they are in but this has all changed recently.
"However, although in theory this should be the more cost-effective option, any potential savings will be wiped out if you fail to plan for the disruption caused by the refurbishment."
So anyway, a large part of gaining those clients is by attracting them to your surgery over all of the competition and one of the best ways to do this is by keeping up-to-date with refurbishments and making sure everything looks clean and professional. At the same time, you need these refurbishments to be cost effective, that means ensuring that you get enough of a financial return to make the initial costs of the refurbishment worthwhile.
"The definition of cost effective is something that is a good value, where the benefits and usage are worth at least what is paid for them."
Obtaining Quotes
When looking into refurbishments for your dental office it can be easy to just take the first quote which comes your way but if you want to be cost effective you should search for and review as many quotes as you can. Doing this will help you to find the absolute best price, not the cheapest price as often the cheapest option is not the most cost effective. Instead, the best all round price is one that covers everything you need for a reasonable price without sacrificing the quality of the work.
Shop Around
In the same way and for the same reasons that you obtain more than one quote for the work, you should also shop around for the different materials that will be needed for your refurbishment and any furniture and decoration that you wish to add. Sourcing these items for yourself could actually save you lots of cash and work out to be much more cost effective than if you let a designer or project manager do it for you.
Don't Be Tight
Many people often assume that being cost effective is all about saving cash and doing everything as cheaply as possible but this is not true. You could save yourself a lot of cash in the short term if you carried out any refurbishment works yourself but these works would probably not last more than a few years at best. Whereas if you spent a little extra cash in your initial outlay to pay for someone professional to carry out the work for you, you would be looking at double and possibly even triple the life time of the project, therefore saving yourself more money over a longer period of time.
Get Some Advice
If you aren't sure about any of the financial aspects of a refurbishment, then the best thing you can do is to get the advice of an accountant or financial advisor. These are difficult economical times and many businesses are struggling to stay afloat so it would be completely understandable and probably very beneficial for you to go through everything with someone who can answer any or all of your financial questions for you.
For more information on this, you can visit apollointeriors.com.
"However, although in theory this should be the more cost-effective option, any potential savings will be wiped out if you fail to plan for the disruption caused by the refurbishment."
So anyway, a large part of gaining those clients is by attracting them to your surgery over all of the competition and one of the best ways to do this is by keeping up-to-date with refurbishments and making sure everything looks clean and professional. At the same time, you need these refurbishments to be cost effective, that means ensuring that you get enough of a financial return to make the initial costs of the refurbishment worthwhile.
"The definition of cost effective is something that is a good value, where the benefits and usage are worth at least what is paid for them."
Obtaining Quotes
When looking into refurbishments for your dental office it can be easy to just take the first quote which comes your way but if you want to be cost effective you should search for and review as many quotes as you can. Doing this will help you to find the absolute best price, not the cheapest price as often the cheapest option is not the most cost effective. Instead, the best all round price is one that covers everything you need for a reasonable price without sacrificing the quality of the work.
Shop Around
In the same way and for the same reasons that you obtain more than one quote for the work, you should also shop around for the different materials that will be needed for your refurbishment and any furniture and decoration that you wish to add. Sourcing these items for yourself could actually save you lots of cash and work out to be much more cost effective than if you let a designer or project manager do it for you.
Don't Be Tight
Many people often assume that being cost effective is all about saving cash and doing everything as cheaply as possible but this is not true. You could save yourself a lot of cash in the short term if you carried out any refurbishment works yourself but these works would probably not last more than a few years at best. Whereas if you spent a little extra cash in your initial outlay to pay for someone professional to carry out the work for you, you would be looking at double and possibly even triple the life time of the project, therefore saving yourself more money over a longer period of time.
Get Some Advice
If you aren't sure about any of the financial aspects of a refurbishment, then the best thing you can do is to get the advice of an accountant or financial advisor. These are difficult economical times and many businesses are struggling to stay afloat so it would be completely understandable and probably very beneficial for you to go through everything with someone who can answer any or all of your financial questions for you.
For more information on this, you can visit apollointeriors.com.
Friday, February 7, 2014
Why Might You Need To Refurbish Your UK Medical Or Dental Office?
Managing any kind of property, be it commercial or otherwise comes with the responsibility of upkeep and regular refurbishments, is just part of the package. Medical and dental offices are no exception to this and if anything the need for these refurbishments is more intense due to the nature of the visits that people will make to the premises. A tired and rundown looking facility is going to do nothing but send out a message of poor quality to any prospective clients or patients and no one is going to want to visit what they presume to be a poor quality medical specialist.
"Indeed, doctors, dentists, attorneys, architects, engineers, and the like recognize that the appearance of their offices can be a significant component in their overall success. With competition up and reimbursements down, a medical office that's shabby, impedes productivity, or can't accommodate expansion plans can be a big liability."
Nervous Patients
Regular refurbishment can do a lot for a patient's state of mind during their time in the dental or medical office. Many patients become anxious at the thought of visiting a medical professional, particularly a dentist and a poorly taken care of office might have them running for the door. To relieve anxiety, nerves and tension medical and dental premises need to be well taken care of, clean and emit a calming feel. The less medical it seems the more comforting it will be so it's a good idea to look into the best sort of interior design for relieving anxiety in patients.
Business Rivals
Let's not forget that medical and dental offices are also business enterprises; they need customers to bring in money so they can afford to keep going and just like other businesses there is a lot of competition from rivals. In order to stay on top of this competition and make sure that clients continue coming to your office rather than any other establishment it is important to send out the right impression. A building which is in need of serious repair and redecoration is only going to turn people away and your company will become reputable for all of the wrong reasons. Yes, refurbishments are expensive and will make a dent in any net profits. However, the longer a problem is left untended before being sorted out, the more it will cost you in the long run, not only from the expense of the repair but also from the revenue lost because of clients who were given the wrong impression.
"The goal for most physicians is to represent their practice well, at the best value for the money. First, consider your patient base and the image you want to project to those patients. Physicians who are running a clinic, for example, do not require an upmarket location and costly furnishings."
Growing Needs
It is very possible that the need for refurbishment becomes evident due to an increase in the number of patients or clients coming into the office. Small cramped waiting rooms or consulting or surgery rooms that are cluttered with equipment are not going to give a very good impression so sometimes expansions are needed to allow for the extra needs that come with an increase in the number of patients. It is always possible to relocate your medical office rather than to renovate it but you will run the risk of actually losing business as patients may have difficulty in getting to the new office space.
Refurbishing any dental or medical office in the UK can be difficult but there are many companies and websites that are full of advice and information. So, why not take a look at Apollo Interiors for the very best and most current help and support.
"Indeed, doctors, dentists, attorneys, architects, engineers, and the like recognize that the appearance of their offices can be a significant component in their overall success. With competition up and reimbursements down, a medical office that's shabby, impedes productivity, or can't accommodate expansion plans can be a big liability."
Nervous Patients
Regular refurbishment can do a lot for a patient's state of mind during their time in the dental or medical office. Many patients become anxious at the thought of visiting a medical professional, particularly a dentist and a poorly taken care of office might have them running for the door. To relieve anxiety, nerves and tension medical and dental premises need to be well taken care of, clean and emit a calming feel. The less medical it seems the more comforting it will be so it's a good idea to look into the best sort of interior design for relieving anxiety in patients.
Business Rivals
Let's not forget that medical and dental offices are also business enterprises; they need customers to bring in money so they can afford to keep going and just like other businesses there is a lot of competition from rivals. In order to stay on top of this competition and make sure that clients continue coming to your office rather than any other establishment it is important to send out the right impression. A building which is in need of serious repair and redecoration is only going to turn people away and your company will become reputable for all of the wrong reasons. Yes, refurbishments are expensive and will make a dent in any net profits. However, the longer a problem is left untended before being sorted out, the more it will cost you in the long run, not only from the expense of the repair but also from the revenue lost because of clients who were given the wrong impression.
"The goal for most physicians is to represent their practice well, at the best value for the money. First, consider your patient base and the image you want to project to those patients. Physicians who are running a clinic, for example, do not require an upmarket location and costly furnishings."
Growing Needs
It is very possible that the need for refurbishment becomes evident due to an increase in the number of patients or clients coming into the office. Small cramped waiting rooms or consulting or surgery rooms that are cluttered with equipment are not going to give a very good impression so sometimes expansions are needed to allow for the extra needs that come with an increase in the number of patients. It is always possible to relocate your medical office rather than to renovate it but you will run the risk of actually losing business as patients may have difficulty in getting to the new office space.
Refurbishing any dental or medical office in the UK can be difficult but there are many companies and websites that are full of advice and information. So, why not take a look at Apollo Interiors for the very best and most current help and support.
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Advantages Of Renovating Your Commercial Property
There can be many reasons why a company may choose to renovate their commercial property. Every business owner must look at his or her property as another instrument for increasing productivity and attracting new businesses. For that reason if you feel that your corporate environment is not bringing the advantages that your company needs it is important that you seriously consider an interior revamp. You'd be surprised at how the look and atmosphere of your property can impact your bottom line. According to a study performed by Michigan State,
"Buildings that incorporated LEED practices into their renovations had employees who missed less work and put in almost 39 hours more per person annually..... Fewer allergic reactions and reduced stress increased productivity in the range of $69,601 to more than $250,000 per year."
There are a number of additional benefits that can be received by renovating your commercial property.
Increases Value
Remodeling allows you to maximize the potential of your property throughout its life. A carefully planned office can increase its value by bringing your facility up to date so that time and money is not wasted on outdated equipment or furnishings. When your business objectives are carefully considered in the renovation you'll be better able to fulfill your goals and deliver on your promises.
Increases Productivity
When the focus of your renovation project is to increase productivity it will more than pay for itself in the improved level of efficiency. Analyzing workflow patterns and communication demands will help in choosing the right office tools that will allow employees to work more effectively.
Ergonomic seating, softer lighting, and quality furnishings can create a healthier environment where workers will be less fatigued so that they can stay on a task longer, which can contribute to better productivity. Workers who are comfortable are less likely to have accidents or call in sick; a common problem for businesses with poorly planned surroundings.
Studies have shown that when employees are comfortable in their workplace atmosphere their morale improves and that in turn, helps to motivate, attract and retain employees over the long term.
Keeps Up With Changing Technologies and Work Styles
As technology continues to improve the way businesses are run, a property renovation can give a business the needed flexibility to adapt to the constant stream of advances introduced every year. When a business considers not just their immediate needs but also anticipates future needs it can keep the company in the forefront for a much longer period of time.
Advanced technologies can also allow for different types of work situations as well as new trends in the market. Allowing employees the freedom to work from home or work in teams or any other work style can easily be accommodated with the right office design.
With the right combination of furnishings and technologies, your business property can last much longer and provide a much better atmosphere that would be more conducive to a smooth and profitable working environment.
If you are considering renovating your business property it will require you to make a number of decisions. Using the services of a professional renovator like ApolloInteriors can be very instrumental in helping you to make the right choices. As explained by the Thomas Interior Survival Guide,
"Whether to move or remodel at all is a tough decision.... To turn this challenge into an opportunity, you've got to plan profitability and productivity into every aspect of your new space - from the first blueprints to the final art prints on the wall."
This will require taking advantage of professionals who can help you to see not only your immediate needs but also the future challenges that your business might face. When your plans include the present as well as the future your renovation project has a better chance of creating a space where the office environment works for you rather than just becoming a place where you work.
"Buildings that incorporated LEED practices into their renovations had employees who missed less work and put in almost 39 hours more per person annually..... Fewer allergic reactions and reduced stress increased productivity in the range of $69,601 to more than $250,000 per year."
There are a number of additional benefits that can be received by renovating your commercial property.
Increases Value
Remodeling allows you to maximize the potential of your property throughout its life. A carefully planned office can increase its value by bringing your facility up to date so that time and money is not wasted on outdated equipment or furnishings. When your business objectives are carefully considered in the renovation you'll be better able to fulfill your goals and deliver on your promises.
Increases Productivity
When the focus of your renovation project is to increase productivity it will more than pay for itself in the improved level of efficiency. Analyzing workflow patterns and communication demands will help in choosing the right office tools that will allow employees to work more effectively.
Ergonomic seating, softer lighting, and quality furnishings can create a healthier environment where workers will be less fatigued so that they can stay on a task longer, which can contribute to better productivity. Workers who are comfortable are less likely to have accidents or call in sick; a common problem for businesses with poorly planned surroundings.
Studies have shown that when employees are comfortable in their workplace atmosphere their morale improves and that in turn, helps to motivate, attract and retain employees over the long term.
Keeps Up With Changing Technologies and Work Styles
As technology continues to improve the way businesses are run, a property renovation can give a business the needed flexibility to adapt to the constant stream of advances introduced every year. When a business considers not just their immediate needs but also anticipates future needs it can keep the company in the forefront for a much longer period of time.
Advanced technologies can also allow for different types of work situations as well as new trends in the market. Allowing employees the freedom to work from home or work in teams or any other work style can easily be accommodated with the right office design.
With the right combination of furnishings and technologies, your business property can last much longer and provide a much better atmosphere that would be more conducive to a smooth and profitable working environment.
If you are considering renovating your business property it will require you to make a number of decisions. Using the services of a professional renovator like ApolloInteriors can be very instrumental in helping you to make the right choices. As explained by the Thomas Interior Survival Guide,
"Whether to move or remodel at all is a tough decision.... To turn this challenge into an opportunity, you've got to plan profitability and productivity into every aspect of your new space - from the first blueprints to the final art prints on the wall."
This will require taking advantage of professionals who can help you to see not only your immediate needs but also the future challenges that your business might face. When your plans include the present as well as the future your renovation project has a better chance of creating a space where the office environment works for you rather than just becoming a place where you work.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Reaping The Benefits Of An Office Redesign In The UK
Refurbishing an office can be a bit of a nightmare. It doesn't matter whether you are doing it for personal reasons or professional ones. There are lots of decisions which need to be made and this can lead to a few stresses and worries. However, it isn't always this way and most of the time things run very smoothly. There are a lot of benefits when choosing to refurbish your professional or business space, particularly for offices and this is the same all over the world. It doesn't matter whether you are in America or in the UK. You will still reap the same benefits from the redesign.
"In the business world, there's nothing more influential than the image of your office space. Clients, vendors, business partners and future employers will first be drawn by the general aspect of your company."
Benefits
Let's take a look at the many benefits when choosing to redesign your office space regardless of your whereabouts in the world. Changing the design can really raise the morale of your employees. A drab looking working environment is going to make them feel bored and frustrated, so that they may be slow at completing tasks. However, if you have a nicely decorated office which has the right sort of decor and accessories, this will make them feel much happier while they work and can even increase their productivity. Having a change around is also a great way to ensure that you get the full use of your available space and this will likely also appeal to customers or clients who will then pass on that information to others, therefore, raising your business reputation.
Decisions, Decisions!
There are a whole host of different choices to be made when it comes to choosing designs for your office space and making the wrong ones can have a very negative impact and achieve the opposite of what you are looking for. In the UK, there are many different companies and contractors who can provide advisers and interior designers who will be on hand to help you make these very important decisions. They will be able to steer you in the right direction and away from the wrong choices as well as giving you the best examples of office furniture and other decor that you will want and information on the best places to purchase them from.
Feng Shui
Once you have chosen all of your office furniture, you then need to make decisions about how the various components should all be positioned. The way you present your furniture and accessories is just as important as the decor itself and has a direct effect on clients, employees and the general look and feel of your office. You need to position items so as to allow maximum use of the office space and make sure that everything is conveniently located for ease of use. Decorations such as plants and paintings all help to give the area a homely feel which will appeal directly to anybody who comes into the office.
"If you spend many hours at the office, you just have to find a way to make the office energy work for you. More often than not this is a challenge, especially if your office has no windows, but good feng shui even in this office is not an impossible task."
Choosing to redesign your office space is the first decision you will make on a road of many. There is so much to think about and do but there is also a lot of information to be found on the internet and if you want to find out more then this is the place to start.
"In the business world, there's nothing more influential than the image of your office space. Clients, vendors, business partners and future employers will first be drawn by the general aspect of your company."
Benefits
Let's take a look at the many benefits when choosing to redesign your office space regardless of your whereabouts in the world. Changing the design can really raise the morale of your employees. A drab looking working environment is going to make them feel bored and frustrated, so that they may be slow at completing tasks. However, if you have a nicely decorated office which has the right sort of decor and accessories, this will make them feel much happier while they work and can even increase their productivity. Having a change around is also a great way to ensure that you get the full use of your available space and this will likely also appeal to customers or clients who will then pass on that information to others, therefore, raising your business reputation.
Decisions, Decisions!
There are a whole host of different choices to be made when it comes to choosing designs for your office space and making the wrong ones can have a very negative impact and achieve the opposite of what you are looking for. In the UK, there are many different companies and contractors who can provide advisers and interior designers who will be on hand to help you make these very important decisions. They will be able to steer you in the right direction and away from the wrong choices as well as giving you the best examples of office furniture and other decor that you will want and information on the best places to purchase them from.
Feng Shui
Once you have chosen all of your office furniture, you then need to make decisions about how the various components should all be positioned. The way you present your furniture and accessories is just as important as the decor itself and has a direct effect on clients, employees and the general look and feel of your office. You need to position items so as to allow maximum use of the office space and make sure that everything is conveniently located for ease of use. Decorations such as plants and paintings all help to give the area a homely feel which will appeal directly to anybody who comes into the office.
"If you spend many hours at the office, you just have to find a way to make the office energy work for you. More often than not this is a challenge, especially if your office has no windows, but good feng shui even in this office is not an impossible task."
Choosing to redesign your office space is the first decision you will make on a road of many. There is so much to think about and do but there is also a lot of information to be found on the internet and if you want to find out more then this is the place to start.
Monday, January 6, 2014
Controlling An Environment Using Interior Design Psychology
It's not often that you hear the words "design" and "psychology" in the same sentence and if you did you might possibly think the person who said them was talking gibberish but there is in fact a psychology involved in interior design. Technically speaking, interior design psychology is the study of the relationship between an environment and the social, behavioral and psychological effects this can have on anyone who inhabits the space. The aim of the study is to ensure the maximum possible positive benefits of any home or work place are being achieved. This is done partly by making the best use of any available space, therefore improving the well-being of an individual. Psychoanalysts, such as Sigmund Freud and other professionals in the field, have proven with various studies over decades that using psychology in design can make it possible to control the environment, behavior and relationships of those who inhabit it.
"You may have heard that yellow has been associated with feeling happy; but it's also true that more marital fights happen in yellow kitchens than in kitchens of any other color."
Proximity
Proximity or proxemics, which plays a large part in design psychology, is the study of how much personal space (this is the space between themselves and others) a person needs as well as what they consider to be their own personal territory. Incidences of personal space can be seen when you look at a crowded train or bus. Those people who need larger amounts of space between themselves and others will choose to stand over sitting in a seat next to someone they don't know. This also comes into play when designing a room for someone. You need to make sure that they can have enough space for themselves while still fitting the room out according to their specific needs.
Perception
Everyone has a different perception of space and bodily awareness. In addition to this, there is also a vast difference in opinions around aesthetics and symbolic meanings to space. Part of the psychology of interior design is to determine the different needs of each customer and help them to create a room or living space which fits those needs perfectly.
Object Placement
Believe it or not, this type of psychology even stretches as far as which items you choose to place in your home and where they go. Obviously, placement comes under the spacial awareness heading but when it comes to objects and furniture there is a distinct order which is followed. First comes the functional items such as pens, chairs and telephones. These items are of significant importance due to how often they are used. Next comes valuable items but this depends on how you define value. If it is monetary then items like expensive paintings or piano's can be placed but other items will need to be removed to avoid overcrowding. If it is sentimental value that you find more important, then things like family pictures or priceless heirlooms will be placed instead. After value comes items which are seen to be symbolic, jewelry which symbolize a birth date or other such items will be included. Lastly, there are the labelled items, that is, items which show a persons worth such as family crests.
"Interior design accessories add to the aesthetic value of a room, and should be representative to the designer's (or homeowner's) personality and tastes. They may include things like wall art, throw pillows, antiques, sculptures, keepsakes, collectibles and memorabilia."
Simple Terms
The simple truth is that choosing to have your home decorated by an interior designer is going to be full of benefits for you and if you choose a trusted and reputable company such as Apollo Interiors to carry out the work for you, you can be sure to receive the highest possible standard and professional treatment.
"You may have heard that yellow has been associated with feeling happy; but it's also true that more marital fights happen in yellow kitchens than in kitchens of any other color."
Proximity
Proximity or proxemics, which plays a large part in design psychology, is the study of how much personal space (this is the space between themselves and others) a person needs as well as what they consider to be their own personal territory. Incidences of personal space can be seen when you look at a crowded train or bus. Those people who need larger amounts of space between themselves and others will choose to stand over sitting in a seat next to someone they don't know. This also comes into play when designing a room for someone. You need to make sure that they can have enough space for themselves while still fitting the room out according to their specific needs.
Perception
Everyone has a different perception of space and bodily awareness. In addition to this, there is also a vast difference in opinions around aesthetics and symbolic meanings to space. Part of the psychology of interior design is to determine the different needs of each customer and help them to create a room or living space which fits those needs perfectly.
Object Placement
Believe it or not, this type of psychology even stretches as far as which items you choose to place in your home and where they go. Obviously, placement comes under the spacial awareness heading but when it comes to objects and furniture there is a distinct order which is followed. First comes the functional items such as pens, chairs and telephones. These items are of significant importance due to how often they are used. Next comes valuable items but this depends on how you define value. If it is monetary then items like expensive paintings or piano's can be placed but other items will need to be removed to avoid overcrowding. If it is sentimental value that you find more important, then things like family pictures or priceless heirlooms will be placed instead. After value comes items which are seen to be symbolic, jewelry which symbolize a birth date or other such items will be included. Lastly, there are the labelled items, that is, items which show a persons worth such as family crests.
"Interior design accessories add to the aesthetic value of a room, and should be representative to the designer's (or homeowner's) personality and tastes. They may include things like wall art, throw pillows, antiques, sculptures, keepsakes, collectibles and memorabilia."
Simple Terms
The simple truth is that choosing to have your home decorated by an interior designer is going to be full of benefits for you and if you choose a trusted and reputable company such as Apollo Interiors to carry out the work for you, you can be sure to receive the highest possible standard and professional treatment.
Monday, December 30, 2013
Choosing The Interior Design For Your Home Or Workplace
When it comes to interior design
many people pass it off as something which is only accessible for those
who have money and automatically make a visit to the local DIY store
instead. However, that is a view from the past and nowadays many people
are choosing to hire a designer to decorate their homes and even
workplaces too. It might be something you feel isn't for you but there
are many direct benefits to be enjoyed when choosing an interior
designer.
Home Is Where the Heart Is
A house does not automatically equate to a home. The house is just the shell and it's what you do with the inside that makes it the safe haven that it should be. An interior designer can help you to make your house feel like a home; a place where you can raise a family should you choose to and can create lasting memories.
"You need a good basic skeleton into which you can pour your personal things. The skeleton can either enhance or deaden what you bring into it."
Spatial Awareness
It is important to make the most of whatever space you have and a designer can help you find the best way to utilize this. If storage space in the home is something you struggle with, they will be able to find a way for you to have some built-in cupboards, hidden drawers or something similar. In the workplace, they can show you how best to lay out your furniture and equipment depending on where your electrical and telephone sockets are.
Tailor Made
With an interior designer, every tiny detail can be made to your exact specifications - even the most unusual requests can be accommodated. This also includes adaptations for handicapped people, to make working or living spaces much more accessible for them. This could be things such as installing ramps, hand rails, stair lifts and much more.
Morale and Customers
Choosing interior design for your workplace can have lasting effects on your staff morale, there is nothing like a fresh coat of paint and some new equipment to bring the smiles back to their faces and in doing so this will increase their productivity levels which can only be good for your business. A refurbishment can also have a great effect on your customers. Hosting a grand reopening, for example, will help to bring in many new customers and will leave them with a good impression regarding your company. They will then recommend friends and a sort of ripple effect will take place, thus increasing your customer base, dramatically.
"Office design doesn't just create a certain kind of impression for visitors or clients; it can significantly affect employee morale and productivity."
Stress Free
Last but definitely not least is the fact that choosing an interior designer for any renovation need, whether it be one room or a whole house/office block, will eliminate most of the need, stress and cost of having a go yourself. You will also find that the finished results are of much higher quality, last a lot longer, and are perfectly suited to your needs.
Still Unsure?
If you still aren't sure whether an interior designer is what you are looking for then do some research. The internet is a good place to start by searching for any local companies as well as any freelance designers. Most reputable places will have some of their previous works on display at their websites and possibly some testimonies from customers. Find out if any of them are offering a free evaluation and quotation without the obligation to sign on the dotted line and if so take full advantage of that option. You don't have to do this with just one company, shop around a bit to find the best quotation but be wary as the cheapest options normally provide the cheapest looking finished results. I guarantee that if you do decide to choose an interior designer for you home or work environment you won't be disappointed.
Home Is Where the Heart Is
A house does not automatically equate to a home. The house is just the shell and it's what you do with the inside that makes it the safe haven that it should be. An interior designer can help you to make your house feel like a home; a place where you can raise a family should you choose to and can create lasting memories.
"You need a good basic skeleton into which you can pour your personal things. The skeleton can either enhance or deaden what you bring into it."
Spatial Awareness
It is important to make the most of whatever space you have and a designer can help you find the best way to utilize this. If storage space in the home is something you struggle with, they will be able to find a way for you to have some built-in cupboards, hidden drawers or something similar. In the workplace, they can show you how best to lay out your furniture and equipment depending on where your electrical and telephone sockets are.
Tailor Made
With an interior designer, every tiny detail can be made to your exact specifications - even the most unusual requests can be accommodated. This also includes adaptations for handicapped people, to make working or living spaces much more accessible for them. This could be things such as installing ramps, hand rails, stair lifts and much more.
Morale and Customers
Choosing interior design for your workplace can have lasting effects on your staff morale, there is nothing like a fresh coat of paint and some new equipment to bring the smiles back to their faces and in doing so this will increase their productivity levels which can only be good for your business. A refurbishment can also have a great effect on your customers. Hosting a grand reopening, for example, will help to bring in many new customers and will leave them with a good impression regarding your company. They will then recommend friends and a sort of ripple effect will take place, thus increasing your customer base, dramatically.
"Office design doesn't just create a certain kind of impression for visitors or clients; it can significantly affect employee morale and productivity."
Stress Free
Last but definitely not least is the fact that choosing an interior designer for any renovation need, whether it be one room or a whole house/office block, will eliminate most of the need, stress and cost of having a go yourself. You will also find that the finished results are of much higher quality, last a lot longer, and are perfectly suited to your needs.
Still Unsure?
If you still aren't sure whether an interior designer is what you are looking for then do some research. The internet is a good place to start by searching for any local companies as well as any freelance designers. Most reputable places will have some of their previous works on display at their websites and possibly some testimonies from customers. Find out if any of them are offering a free evaluation and quotation without the obligation to sign on the dotted line and if so take full advantage of that option. You don't have to do this with just one company, shop around a bit to find the best quotation but be wary as the cheapest options normally provide the cheapest looking finished results. I guarantee that if you do decide to choose an interior designer for you home or work environment you won't be disappointed.
Monday, December 23, 2013
Make Your House A Home By Using An Interior Designer
Benefits of Hiring An Interior Designer
There are a huge number of positive benefits to be gained by using an interior designer to decorate your house. To begin with, they can help you make full use of your available space, a huge benefit if you have children or are a little short on rooms. They offer expert advice and every designer is a professional and will act in that manner. They will not tell you what to do but will expand your ideas and enhance them as much as possible.
An interior designer will have an up-to-date knowledge of what is currently "fashionable" as well as which designs are considered to be "timeless". They can show you many products and designs that you may not even have considered before and can bring them straight to your home for you to view which gives you the benefit of being able to see the designs in the environment they will be used in and make your decisions accordingly. Lastly, they will only use trusted manufacturers and as such can give you a higher quality of work at a much lower cost.
"To lessen the burden, hire an interior designer. He can do all the work for you as long as you will pay him rightly. You will be surprised to arrive in a beautiful home when all work is done."
Choosing Your Designer
If you do decide to go ahead and use an interior designer to decorate your home, there are many things to consider before you start. You need to have a plan in mind of what you would like the finished result to be before you begin, once you have this plan you can start researching different companies. Most, if not all interior design companies will offer a free evaluation and quotation without the need to sign any contracts so it is important to make use of this and contact as many companies as possible in order for you to get the best deal. Try to view some of the previous works carried out by the designer and if possible speak to previous customers. Don't automatically go for the cheapest option without viewing their work as in most cases, the cheapest option gives the poorest looking work which will not last. Try to use reputable companies such as ApolloInteriors.com who will have a team of highly trained staff members, as opposed to any freelancers you may come across.
Make a Plan
Before you start on any work you need to have a detailed plan in place. Your home needs to be evaluated properly and risk assessments will need to be written up by the company to ensure they are covered for any accidents. Using the magic of CGI you should be able to view your finished renovations before any work has been started so you know exactly what you want is exactly the work that will be carried out. Next, time schedules and budgets will need to be worked out. It is important to leave a little extra in your budget in case you come across any unexpected problems which could blow the planned expenses out of the water. Time schedules are also important so that you can know which work is being completed on which days and whether you will need to vacate the premises for a while or not. Again, it is a good idea to leave a little spare time in the schedule to allow for unexpected problems and issues.
"When most people think about hiring an interior designer, they zero in on aesthetics: wall colors, window treatments, pillow patterns. But that's just scratching the surface of what a designer can add to a home."
Supervision
Once the work has begun it is important to supervise it as much as possible (obviously don't give up your job to do so though), this way you can be sure that the work you are expecting is the work that is being carried out and if any problems do arise you are there to help deal with them immediately. Being at the site of the work will also help you to get a feel for the finished result and plan for where the plumbing, phone lines and other cables will be best positioned for you as well as the furniture. If you feel the work is not being completed to expected levels then you can bring this up straight away instead of having to wait until you get home.
Shopping!
Probably the most exciting part of any renovation is the shopping; choosing exactly which furniture and equipment you would like right down to the smallest details such as light fittings and curtains. Your designer will be able to help you shop around for the best deals and will be able to guide you in the direction of good quality items.
Completion
Once the work has been completed your designer should go through every single aspect of the renovation with you. They will double check to ensure that the work has been completed to the highest standard and if there are any problems then they will be able to get them sorted out for you. Safety checks will need to take place, especially if any electrical or gas appliances have been moved or installed. Once all of these checks have been completed, you can sit back and enjoy your beautiful new home. Start planning the next big party to show it all off and look forward to the many happy years to come and the lasting memories that will be created there.
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Tips And Advice For Refurbishment Of Commercial Or Office Spaces
If you own a business or office space then, in the current economical climate refurbishment is probably not high on your list of priorities. However, there are many positive benefits in choosing to do so. Clean and freshly decorated premises, which are well set out can leave a really good, lasting impression on customers, meaning they are more likely to recommend your business to friends and family. On top of this, it can have the added bonus of boosting the morale of your staff which in turn means they will be working at a much higher productivity rate. It can enable you to make better use of your available space as well as possibly creating even more room and to top it all off, all of these benefits make it easier for you to compete with rival businesses.
"Interior design isn't just about home decoration. It is concerned with creating functional and beautiful to look at interior spaces in all sorts of places including houses, public buildings and commercial properties such as shops, restaurants, leisure venues and offices."
Decisions Decisions!
Redesigning or refurbishing professional premises, no matter how big or small, is not a quick job and there are many decisions to be made along the way. There needs to be careful evaluations and planning so your project manager knows exactly what you want and can choose ideas which will best suit your needs. After the planning comes the design stage. It is crucial that you are involved in every step of the design process to make sure you are fully happy with everything that is being suggested. Next comes the implementation and again, if allowed, you should try to oversee as much of the work as possible to ensure it is being completed to the highest possible standard. Once work is completed there should be another evaluation to check the work and make sure you are happy with everything. Decisions are going to be made throughout the entire process so be sure to know exactly what you want out of the refurbishment.
Preliminary Stage
As I said above, the first stage in any business refurbishment is to have an evaluation but don't just contact one company. If you want to get the best deal it is a good idea to get an evaluation and quotation from several design companies who should be willing to give this for free without any obligation to sign a contract. If at all possible, try to see some examples of previous works which have been carried out by companies as quite often, the cheapest option gives the cheapest looking result. Find reputable companies such as apollointeriors.com and view testimonies from previous customers to help you make your decision.
Evaluation and Planning
Once you have chosen the company you wish to take charge of your refurbishment you need to go through a detailed plan and evaluation with them. Try to decide how best to use the space you have and pay particular attention to things, such as plumbing, wall partitions and ceilings as well as communication ports, such as phone and fax lines, router space for wireless broadband and all the cables that come with them. Also, make a plan of the type of furniture you will be needing such as, office desks or shop counter tops and shelving units and draw roughly where you would like them to be positioned.
Interior Design and 3D Imaging
Nowadays, thanks to the wonders of technology, it is possible to see the finished result of your refurbishment before work has even begun. Different computer programs are available which enable you to design your commercial space down to the tiniest little detail on a laptop computer, this is a fantastic tool as it can really give you a feel for which ideas will work and which won't as well as color schemes and all sorts of other benefits. Make use of this tool as much as possible to ensure that your project manager knows exactly what you want the finished result to be. If you wanted to, you could even get other staff members involved and have them give their own personal opinions and ideas on what to do with the space.
"Conceptual stages especially floor planning, and interior and exterior designing can now be properly designed, planned, and evaluated through more realistic outputs made by 3D rendering."
Project Management
The next step is probably a lot less fun than the previous one as it involves costs. You will need to set out a budget, sometimes things don't go to plan and whilst completing the works it is possible that other, unexpected problems will be uncovered so it is important to allow for this in the original budget to avoid extra costs. As well as budgeting, time schedules will be put in place to keep you informed on when certain tasks will be being carried out and to give you an idea of a completion date.
Framework and Shopping!
Whilst the framework of your refurbishment is being carried out you can enjoy a much more fun side by starting to shop for your furniture and equipment. The company you have employed should have an idea of the type of furniture and equipment you need so it will be able to point you in the right direction. Again it is important to shop around though to find the best deal, otherwise you may find yourself spending over the odds and stretching yourself to your budget limit and beyond.
Post-Completion Evaluation and Safety Assessment
Once work has been completed you should make sure to have a post-completion evaluation to ensure that all of the necessary works have been completed to the highest possible quality. In addition to this, there will need to be a number of health and safety checks such as fire safety, electrical tests, and employee safety. And work will probably also need to be assessed by a surveyor to make sure that the building has not been damaged and is still safe for public use. Once all of these checks have been completed you can return to business as usual and reap the benefits of your work, maybe have a grand re-opening day to let the public know that you are open for business again. This will bring back old customers and hopefully bring in new ones also.
"Interior design isn't just about home decoration. It is concerned with creating functional and beautiful to look at interior spaces in all sorts of places including houses, public buildings and commercial properties such as shops, restaurants, leisure venues and offices."
Decisions Decisions!
Redesigning or refurbishing professional premises, no matter how big or small, is not a quick job and there are many decisions to be made along the way. There needs to be careful evaluations and planning so your project manager knows exactly what you want and can choose ideas which will best suit your needs. After the planning comes the design stage. It is crucial that you are involved in every step of the design process to make sure you are fully happy with everything that is being suggested. Next comes the implementation and again, if allowed, you should try to oversee as much of the work as possible to ensure it is being completed to the highest possible standard. Once work is completed there should be another evaluation to check the work and make sure you are happy with everything. Decisions are going to be made throughout the entire process so be sure to know exactly what you want out of the refurbishment.
Preliminary Stage
As I said above, the first stage in any business refurbishment is to have an evaluation but don't just contact one company. If you want to get the best deal it is a good idea to get an evaluation and quotation from several design companies who should be willing to give this for free without any obligation to sign a contract. If at all possible, try to see some examples of previous works which have been carried out by companies as quite often, the cheapest option gives the cheapest looking result. Find reputable companies such as apollointeriors.com and view testimonies from previous customers to help you make your decision.
Evaluation and Planning
Once you have chosen the company you wish to take charge of your refurbishment you need to go through a detailed plan and evaluation with them. Try to decide how best to use the space you have and pay particular attention to things, such as plumbing, wall partitions and ceilings as well as communication ports, such as phone and fax lines, router space for wireless broadband and all the cables that come with them. Also, make a plan of the type of furniture you will be needing such as, office desks or shop counter tops and shelving units and draw roughly where you would like them to be positioned.
Interior Design and 3D Imaging
Nowadays, thanks to the wonders of technology, it is possible to see the finished result of your refurbishment before work has even begun. Different computer programs are available which enable you to design your commercial space down to the tiniest little detail on a laptop computer, this is a fantastic tool as it can really give you a feel for which ideas will work and which won't as well as color schemes and all sorts of other benefits. Make use of this tool as much as possible to ensure that your project manager knows exactly what you want the finished result to be. If you wanted to, you could even get other staff members involved and have them give their own personal opinions and ideas on what to do with the space.
"Conceptual stages especially floor planning, and interior and exterior designing can now be properly designed, planned, and evaluated through more realistic outputs made by 3D rendering."
Project Management
The next step is probably a lot less fun than the previous one as it involves costs. You will need to set out a budget, sometimes things don't go to plan and whilst completing the works it is possible that other, unexpected problems will be uncovered so it is important to allow for this in the original budget to avoid extra costs. As well as budgeting, time schedules will be put in place to keep you informed on when certain tasks will be being carried out and to give you an idea of a completion date.
Framework and Shopping!
Whilst the framework of your refurbishment is being carried out you can enjoy a much more fun side by starting to shop for your furniture and equipment. The company you have employed should have an idea of the type of furniture and equipment you need so it will be able to point you in the right direction. Again it is important to shop around though to find the best deal, otherwise you may find yourself spending over the odds and stretching yourself to your budget limit and beyond.
Post-Completion Evaluation and Safety Assessment
Once work has been completed you should make sure to have a post-completion evaluation to ensure that all of the necessary works have been completed to the highest possible quality. In addition to this, there will need to be a number of health and safety checks such as fire safety, electrical tests, and employee safety. And work will probably also need to be assessed by a surveyor to make sure that the building has not been damaged and is still safe for public use. Once all of these checks have been completed you can return to business as usual and reap the benefits of your work, maybe have a grand re-opening day to let the public know that you are open for business again. This will bring back old customers and hopefully bring in new ones also.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)