design and interiors


As many companies consolidate workers from several buildings into one or lay-off staff to cut overheads, they want to move around workstations and regroup teams without too much disruption. At the same time as workspaces shrink to cut costs, common areas and office receptions are becoming ever more high-spec in a bid to attract tenants and fill vacant spaces. The glut of buildings on the market mean that tenants can be more demanding when choosing a space.


Even with the languid economy, design and fit-out firms are seeing increased investment in common areas. Developments need a wow factor to draw in tenants, whether it is the restoration of a historic building or a cutting-edge design in a new development. Office image is important to convey the culture and values of a company at the front door. For designers, setting the mood and image is what corporate interior design is all about. In the past year, there has been a shift away from minimalist, neutral offices to bolder, more colourful spaces.


Sustainable Influence Another significant characteristic that is shaping the future office is sustainability. It is no longer an option in new construction or significant office renovation. Indeed, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is becoming a required code development or refurbishment. The awareness of LEED and sustainable practices is so acute that organisations are using their “green” workplace as a recruiting tool with more job seekers looking


to work for environmentally- conscious companies. Companies are not just looking


at sourcing some recycled and reclaimed materials within their offices, but as much as possible they want floors, furniture and lighting that is sustainable and hard wearing.


One example is flooring. Flooring is one of the top decisions to be made in a building because it characterises a space and is less transient that other parts of the fit-out. Sourcing floors that can age with the building are the ideal. That means developing hard, durable products like aggregates, resins and polished concrete, and reconstituted and recycled materials including glass, polymers, and engineered timber products that form a hard surface create more visually interesting products with a longer life. Sustainability is also a key consideration for lighting. The move to a more open environment is increasing the amount of natural light that can flow through an office, reducing the need for harsh overhead lighting. Increasing natural light not only improves the aesthetics of an office, it makes workers more comfortable and creative. Today, designing an office is an analysis of how employees and business plans align with the work space. Gone are the days of simply unloading a bank of workstations into a whitewashed shell. Clients now see office design as creating an environment that enhances the ability of employees to work smarter, sharper and be more productive. ■


Need a washroom PDQ…cubicles, ducts and vanity units in just 48 hours


Acorn available in various door heights


Axis cubicle for where cost is key


Amwell Systems is the leading manufacturer and installer of washroom cubicle and panelling systems.


To order your brochure please call 01763 276 210 or visit our website www.amwell-systems.com


British Builder & Developer 21


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