Times of India | The Address | Sunday, July 31, 2011
DESIGN ELEMENTS FOR OFFICE INTERIORS
A well-designed office space looks attractive and contributes to efficiency, says interior designer Richa Wadhwa
Over the last 15-20 years, changes in work and work processes have brought a gradual but dramatic shift in the way office spaces are designed. The office interior holds a large portion of our day to day life. An ideal office is one which has all the comfort, safety and functionality along with eye catching environment.
There is a wide and exciting range of possibilities for office interiors - from modern office interiors to the classic designs. A well planned office is not only functional, safe and professional but it also reflects the image and purpose of particular business taking place in the office brilliantly.
There are various factors to be considered while designing an office space: office environment, corporate culture, traffic patterns, security requirements, reception activities, lighting and communication needs.
Space Planning
Space should be allocated according to functional requirements and should be flexible. Spaces in an office include reception and waiting area, meeting rooms, conference rooms, cabins for senior executives, workstation area, store rooms, server rooms, cafeteria, washrooms etc. depending upon the type of office.
Use open space planning whenever practical. Reduce the number of different sizes of spaces. Standardize the sizes of as many spaces as possible. To create flexibility, apply a modular approach to planning.
Lighting
Correct office lighting is directly related to the efficiency of the office. It is a combination of daylight, general lighting and task lighting.
Windows should allow daylight into the office, but should have shades to prevent glare if necessary. Adjustable desk lamps or wall fixtures give the employee the ability to control light intensity and direction. General overhead lighting should be kept low, dimmer than the individual task lighting units.
Fluorescents are particularly inappropriate for use near a computer screen. The glare, mirror, and shadowing effect are unhealthy and counterproductive.
Color Schemes
Bold and energizing colors create a dynamic environment while neutral colors creates peaceful atmosphere. Earthy colors inspire creativity. Subtle colors schemes help avoid distraction while working.
Furniture
Modular furniture systems deliver flexibility and efficiency. A well planned work desk with appropriate storage options, ergonomically designed, well-cushioned and convenient chairs, file cabinets, book shelves, sofas etc. make up the basic office furniture.
The furniture used in reception forms the major attraction and consists of reception desk, chairs, waiting sofa, loungers etc.
Opt for stain and wear resistant fabric to maintain the quality of the furniture.
Accessories
Well displayed logos, awards, trophies etc make the space look highly impressive. Paintings, plants, arte facts etc. add life to the office décor.
Design defines you!! Its a physical way of showcasing your thoughts in mind!!
Hey!! I am Richa Goyal Wadhwa - Founder and Editor at Design Storyteller and Designer behind PurplemindZ - the Interior Design Studio.
Good to see you here!!
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