When faced with a small office space, there’s no need to think small. A few clever hacks can create space where there’s none - or at least the illusion of it
Lighten up
Pale, muted colours on walls will create a feeling of space and openness. Eliminating visual barriers by continuing the same light colour on floors and ceilings can increase this effect and really open up a small space.
Large windows can make the outside world seem like an extension of the office, but if those aren’t possible, lighting that imitates natural light will help to create the illusion of space. Using a number of different lighting sources will allow light to bounce around the room, which will reduce shadows and open up every corner of your space.
Think vertically
You may be cramped at floor level, but what about all that empty space above your head? Bulletin boards, shelves and wall brackets not only maximise space, but improve workflow by minimising clutter and supporting a storage system that’s organised and easily accessible.
Ensure that wall storage appears clean and minimal though, as ‘busy’ walls can have the effect of closing-in a room. Going paperless will reduce the amount of file storage required – and boost your green credentials at the same time.
Keep it moving
Diane Stegmeier, author and founder of Stegmeier Consulting Group, says: “Rather than focusing on the limitations of our smaller private office, cubicle or shared space, we need to adopt the philosophy that a person’s office is the entire facility.”
Stand up meetings tend to be shorter, more focussed and produce more creative ideas than traditional sit down meetings. You could even take it a step further and introduce walking meetings: researchers at Stanford University found that the creative output of people increases by an average of 60 percent when they are walking.
Looking for creative solutions to your own workspace challenges? At Woodhouse we are specialists in the design and build of smart workspaces that help our clients work more effectively. Get in touch to find out more.
