How to design a green office space
Businesses today are more concerned than ever about the impact of their operations on the environment. While any office space can be made greener, it’s often much easier for businesses to make green changes during an office move. By selecting green materials, introducing energy-efficient products, and making other relatively cost-effective changes, it’s not too hard for businesses to go green in a big way when moving into a new office space.
One of the most important things to consider in green design is the space itself. Is the space the right size for the business, or is it too large, meaning wasted square footage that needs to be heated and cooled? Does the space offer many large windows for natural light, allowing employees to keep the lights off on sunny days? Natural lighting is also good for employee well-being and indoor air quality, which is why windows are one of the most important elements to consider in an office’s overall design.
Once an office space has been selected, consider the materials used to equip the interior, furnish the rooms, and even decorate the walls. Natural and sustainable materials are readily available, especially with today’s focus on eco-design. An expensive but elegant and reusable option is modular glass walls, which allow companies to divide an interior into many smaller offices without building new walls that will eventually come down when another tenant moves out.
It is also recommended that businesses opt for low VOC finishes. VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compound. These emitted gases are not only harmful to the environment, but can also be hazardous to the health of employees. Fortunately, it’s easy to find low VOC paint and even corporate art printed with low VOC ink.
What about the bathrooms? Low-flow toilets and automatic sinks are something to consider from the moment you sign your lease. Hand dryers instead of paper towels can make a world of difference in the amount of waste generated by a business.
While it’s possible to turn any office into a green space, most businesses will benefit from professional help in making their green vision a reality. Hiring an architect and office interior designer who has experience in green projects is a recommended step if you want to stay on top of the latest options and innovations. There is always a new green solution on the market, and a knowledgeable office designer can keep up with the world of green design.
Finally, many business owners wonder if it is worth spending more to design a green space. The answer is, absolutely! A green office can not only save you money on utilities, but going green is awesome for both employees and customers. Creating a space that is healthy for both people and the environment can help set your business apart from the competition and help you stay true to your values.