Looking for private office layout ideas? Great! But how do you lay out a private office? Well, the short (and fun) answer is… any way you want! This is your chance to create a space that is conducive to productivity. To creativity. To grow your business. To get down to work.
While we often think of private offices as “traditional” and “conventional,” they can be ground zero for exciting advancements, innovations, collaborations, and opportunities.
Now, it’s true that these spaces have, to a certain extent, remained the same over the years, and some are staid, generic, and boring. Hardly conducive to the productivity, creativity, and growth we mentioned.
Even private office furniture hasn’t changed much. Until now. Your layout can boost effectiveness, motivation, and satisfaction.
Private Office Layout Ideas
Typical office: desk, chair, a guest chair or two. Maybe a plant if you’re feeling cozy. And yet, these spaces are still highly valued. We are moving away from the open office concept; according to a recent Steelcase Workplace Survey, 92% of workers say that they want to have control over the level of privacy in their workspace.
We need the chance to work independently – and to think! – without distraction or interruption. At the same time, we need to be able to collaborate with colleagues, team members, customers/clients, and other important stakeholders.
Imagine you’re in that traditional office: you’re across the desk (hopefully in your comfy chair), and your counterpart is across from you. Not only does this make it difficult to share documents or screens, it immediately creates an unequal power dynamic.
Now, do you create an office environment that facilitates both individual and collaborative work? One that flows easily? Accommodates technology? And that doesn’t feel cramped? Start with these private office layout ideas:
Remember, “Small” Doesn’t Have to Mean Cramped
A small office can have big potential for your business/career. With a few little hacks, you can make the most of your workspace. For example:
- Don’t Waste Space. Smart layout allows room for everything you need to do. You can, for instance, have conversation/collaboration areas near the entry. Use one wall (ONE!) for storage. Heavy storage is placed along the floor, while the wall can feature hanging shelves. This maximizes your vertical space and keeps the room from feeling cluttered and closed. Look into private office furniture that nests so they can be used as needed and stowed away neatly when not in use. And why not think outside the box? Simply put a cushioned top on a low file cabinet or storage shelf for conversations.
- Zone Out. You don’t sit at your desk all day, nor do you want to! Your office should not be set up this way. Instead, create different zones that accommodate different types of work. We mentioned conversation/collaboration zones. Now what about a more lounge-oriented seat for contemplation and think time, as well as convos? Standing areas? Why not use sliding screens to hide away information when not needed? Marker or bulletin boards for reminders and to-dos?
- Integrate Tech More Seamlessly. Do you love tripping over power cords or running extension cords around your office? No, we didn’t think so. When designing your office layout or choosing the right one for you, think about power and data outlets that are conveniently located in your work zones. This way, you are not tethered to your desk – and guests can easily tap into your juice!
- Rethink Office Desks. For many, “private office furniture” means a big desk. Ok! If that’s how you work best, go for it. But you can also explore other options. A small twist is a desk or work surface that changes heights. You may want to sit down to handle your inbox, but you may find standing is better when you’re tackling a tricky project or problem. This way, you have it all. You could also do away with the desk and install a work surface along an entire wall. You can then “zone it out,” as well. One section is for sitting work. Another is for your current to-dos, while another (and further from the door) is your Archived or Done pile/file. This would also give you a larger surface for those times when you need to share docs and/or screens.
- Balance Privacy and Transparency. Privacy is a major benefit of enclosed offices, but it can be perceived as a barrier to transparency. You may feel “closed off” – and others may see you as unapproachable. To overcome this, make sure your chair faces or is in profile with the door. When people approach, you are facing them. Zones play a role here: you have a defined area for conversations and collaborations, while your work area is more private. Something as simple as placing low storage shelves between these two zones can be very helpful.
Even Better? When the Work Is Done for You!
You have a lot on your mind – and on your to-do list. Clear some of it by opting for a contemporary office that is geared towards your needs. Office Evolution does not only provide space to work; we understand what you need in order to work effectively.
From comfortable, convenient, and flexible private office furniture to integrated tech features to common areas that allow you to meet and greet, our advantageously located spaces are designed for you.
Contact Office Evolution to learn more.