Uplift your workspace on a budget

Budget-friendly ideas to start your workplace transformation

First published on COMUNiTI, April 2024

Struggling to figure out how to improve your workspace with limited funds?

I understand the challenge of upgrading existing spaces on a tight budget. In my line of work, I’m often met with this remark: “...but I don’t have a million dollars to redesign the space!” 

Fear not! 

Here are some creative and budget-friendly ideas to kickstart your workplace transformation. 

👀 OPTIMISE THE BASICS

• Never underestimate the power of a good de-clutter and clean! Clear unnecessary items from filing cabinets, shelves and corridors, organise storage spaces and streamline work areas. You’ll be amazed at how much extra space you’ll feel like you’ve gained. Engage employees by turning the cleanup into a team activity or competition.
• Feel like a Meerkat every time you poke your head over a high partition? Consider removing bulky partitions and replacing them with sleek dividers to open up the space and let more natural light flow across the floor.
• Create designated quiet zones away from noisy areas to promote focused work that’s free from interruption. Provide a space where employees feel comfortable to do deep concentrative work, without the need to wear headphones or work from home.
• Carve out a comfortable communal area for meals and relaxation. It’s not just great for keeping desks clean and supporting employee wellbeing, it also helps to break down silos and build cross-function connections.
• Not all tasks need to be done at a desk. By offering alternative spaces like collaboration zones, lounges, or working cafes, employees move across different work areas during their day, depending on the task at hand. Encouraging incidental movement and posture change throughout the work day is great for wellbeing, creativity and productivity, and it also frees up valuable fixed desk space.

✨ INJECT SOME ENERGY

Does your workplace feel a little lacklustre?  When you create an environment that is inviting and inspiring, people will be drawn to use it.

• As humans, we are not designed to be surrounded by concrete all day. Add plants for a touch of greenery, which not only enhances aesthetics but also boosts mental wellbeing.
• Could your workspace do with a little colour? Infuse your space with colours that reflect your brand and values. Create a vibrant atmosphere that resonates with your unique identity and brand story.
• Let there be light. Maximize natural light by optimising access to windows and outdoor views. Convert traditional offices into collaborative spaces to promote interaction and innovation.
• Ensure your workspaces are purposeful. Create collaboration areas with high tables and interactive tools to foster creativity and teamwork. Brainstorming, ideation and big-picture thinking are best done in bright open spaces that are not that obscured by desks, partitions or boardroom tables. 

These simple yet effective strategies can uplift your workspace without a big capital investment. But remember, a successful transformation starts with a strategy that’s aligned with your long-term goals. 

Need guidance to uplift your office environment? Reach out to me for strategic support!

Mel x

#futureofwork #workplacestrategy