Common office fit-out mistakes to avoid

A well designed and thoughtfully fit-out office can boost employee morale, and enhance collaboration and productivity.

Having said that, getting things wrong due to oversight or other reasons is easy.

This post identifies common mistakes and tells you how to avoid them.

  1. Rushing through the planning stage

    Planning is key. Rushing through the process might cause you to lose time and money reworking structural defects.

  2. Not providing room for collaboration

    It is important to design your space for privacy but not at the cost of stifling collaboration. Leave room for open workspace areas in addition to closed cabins and cubicles for senior managers.

  3. Ineffective layout

    Your office should be easy to navigate - both for employees and visitors. Pay equal attention to the reception area, conference rooms, breakout spaces and recreation rooms, as you would to the main workspace areas.

  4. Ineffective lighting

    Harsh lights and a lack of oxygen can hamper employee morale and productivity. Maximize the flow of fresh air and natural light with centralized windows and skylights.

    Good lighting enhances employees' moods and keeps them engaged. Windows and skylights cut electricity costs and are an environmentally friendly way of lighting up a space.

  5. Exceeding budget

    Be mindful of how much you spend and stick to the plan if things are proceeding smoothly. Making rash decisions could cost you dearly.everything's going as expected.

    Work with your fit-out contractor and extended team to ensure you have everything nailed down before you begin.

  6. Failing to plan for the future

    Planning for the next 5 to 10 years can save money on redesign and fitment costs (in case of future expansion or office restructuring scenarios).

    Creating adaptive team-oriented zones with modern office partitioning designs rather than permanent wall fixtures could be a step in the right direction.

  7. Create a plan with your fitout expert that addresses your current and future needs.