Coworking Space Refurbishment Tips From the Pros

The workspace can have a rather profound effect on one’s creativity and productivity. Simple things like temperature, the colors used in the space, and even the type of furniture all play a massive role in comfort –whether it’s conscious or subconscious. When you pay attention to these things you can create a space that people are excited to work in. Refurbishing a coworking space can have a positive impact on one’s mental health and creates a big opportunity to make something great for everyone who uses the space.

1. Use Light to Your Advantage

One of the most important things in any space is light. When you redo a workspace you get to play around with light. If your budget is bigger, we highly recommend that you add windows. Natural light helps keep you awake and makes you feel more productive. It makes a space feel happier and windows create the illusion of a bigger space. Add a flair to your windows with some gorgeous Georgian shutters to filter the light on those really hot summer days. Play with light. Think about how it works in a space. If you can’t afford to bash out a wall and throw in a window, add lights that mimic sunlight. Lights that are too warm, or too cool can cause people to have difficulty concentrating, so make sure to do your research and find the right one.

2. Consider the Layout

In the past few decades, the pendulum has swung from stuffy cubicles to people feeling overly exposed in open-plan office spaces. These extremes have tried to combat the issue of productivity but haven’t been as successful as people had hoped. Cubicles resulted in people speaking incredibly loud and spending time away from their desks to avoid feelings of isolation. Open office spaces led to paranoia and feeling of being watched or overly micro-managed.

Although they have some pros, both of these spaces have adverse effects on mental health. A great idea is to incorporate aspects of both of these into the workplace. Have quiet, more private spaces where people can work in peace, in addition to open spaces where collaboration is encouraged, and people can talk while they work. Be sure to include soundproof conference rooms where people can hold meetings, or take business calls in private.

3. Consider Energy Efficiency and the Environment

There is a beautiful interplay between energy-efficient technology and the environment. Devices that are more energy efficient consume less energy, which is better for the environment and can add up to a huge saving over time. Install devices that have an A rating and consider making the space as paperless as possible.

4. Make Use of Smart Electronics

It’s great to have a few pieces of tech that anyone can use in a coworking space. Smart electronics make it easier for everyone and anyone to use these devices. One of the biggest benefits is all-in-one integrated office systems. These systems can link meeting rooms to calendars and make it easier for people to book the space by seeing when it’s free or in use. These systems make it easier for people to manage their time and have professional-style meetings.

5. Paint

Neutrals and greys may seem calming, but they don’t really increase productivity or promote creativity. Adding tasteful splashes of color around the office can make the space seem really playful, but sophisticated at the same time. This makes it perfect for people of any profession who come to work in the shared workspace. Different areas of the workspace can be different colors for different things. You can have warm colors in the main work area to encourage energy, and have less bold colors in quieter areas where meetings are held. Each colour has its own benefit, so be sure to use the right colors in their correct collective spaces.

6. Invest in Proper Insulation

The number one thing that people seem to complain about is temperature. This is especially true when it comes to workspace temperature. A space that is too hot or too cold can be incredibly annoying. You can set it to what feels like a comfortable temperature to you, but someone always complains. This could be due to so much more than the actual temperature itself. The location of the AC in a space, as well as the amount of sunlight coming in another area, can all affect the way it feels to people in the space.

When you have proper insulation, the space will stay at a comfortable temperature for longer. It keeps the cold out in winter and the scorching heat out in summer. This means you need to use the AC less.

Refurbishing a space can be a ton of fun, but it’s important that you do it wisely. Using these tips will ensure that you implement smart solutions, creating a space that people want to be in.