First Impressions Matter: Creating an Inviting Office Space

Through COVID, and for us, even before COVID, we were working from our homes. While we had separate office areas in our homes, it was fairly common to be jumping around from couch working, to dining room tables, to working from the floor, and just wherever inspiration seemed to strike. 

But eventually, we began craving more and the convenience of working at home started to wear off. Don’t get us wrong, we still love the flexibility of a good at-home work day. But we felt the need to branch out and find a new set up. In addition, we wanted a space that we could welcome clients to in the event they needed to drop off receipts, or do some good old-fashioned in-person brainstorming. 

That’s when we reached out to Jessica Screeton & Taya Photography to see if they’d be interested in exploring the possibility of local office space. And low and behold - they were feeling as stir crazy as us :) 

Since we moved in December 2022, the office has truly become a place of inspiration. From brainstorming, to cheering each other on, to ‘ringing the bell’, and picking each other up on hard days, this office has seen it all. In addition, it’s truly beautiful and bright, and we all do some of our best work as a result. 

Whether you're a business owner, an office manager, or an employee, the office space you work in can have a significant impact on your overall productivity and satisfaction. From the layout and design to the level of cleanliness, there are many factors that contribute to the first impression your office space makes on visitors and employees alike. In this blog post, we'll explore some tips for creating an inviting office space that makes a positive first impression for your stakeholders. People walking by our office compliment it all the time, and while we can’t take credit for the plants (thanks plant mom, Taya) we are so proud of the space we get to work in. 

So whether you’re designing your home office, or looking to move-in to an office space, read on for inspiration in creating an office that has you feeling inspired day-in and day-out. 

Layout and Design

The layout and design of your office space can have a significant impact on the people who occupy it, affecting their mood, behavior, and overall experience. It can also affect the overall atmosphere determining how welcoming and comfortable your office space feels. When designing your office space, here a few tips we suggest you consider:

Lighting:

Ensure that your office space has ample lighting, both natural and artificial, to create a bright and welcoming environment. Consider using a mix of overhead lighting and desk lamps to create a warm and inviting ambiance. In our opinion, there is nothing better than a bright white space

Color scheme: 

Choose a color scheme that complements your brand and creates a cohesive look throughout the office. Consider using artwork to add interest and personality to your space. Choosing artwork that resonates with your brand's values can also act as a conversation piece and adds another way to share your company's mission with potential clients. Adding some plants is also a great way to add a pop of color. 

Furniture: 

Invest in comfortable, ergonomic furniture that supports good posture and allows employees to work efficiently. Consider incorporating different types of seating, such as standing desks or lounge chairs, to provide employees with options for different work styles.

Layout:

Consider the flow of traffic in your office space and create a layout that makes it easy for employees and visitors to move around. Avoid clutter and ensure that common areas, such as break rooms and meeting rooms, are easily accessible. Clutter can cause unneccessary stress, anxiety, and frustration, as well as create physical obstacles or safety hazards. 

Cleanliness

A clean and well-maintained office space is essential for making a positive first impression. We can’t stress enough, put time and effort into ensuring that your office space is regularly cleaned and maintained.

Hiring a professional cleaning service is an easy solution. One of the primary benefits of hiring a professional cleaning service is that it can save time and resources. Rather than having employees spend their time cleaning the office space, a professional cleaning service manages these tasks, allowing employees to focus on the work needed to be completed to drive your businesses forward. 

However, if a professional cleaning service is not within your budget at this time, simply encourage employees to keep their workspaces tidy and organized by providing ample storage and setting clear expectations for cleanliness. Always ensure that common areas, such as break rooms and restrooms, are regularly cleaned and stocked with necessary supplies. Implementing a cleaning schedule is a great way to ensure these tasks are being taken care of. 

Designing a welcoming office space is a simple but effective way to create a favorable first impression on both your employees and guests. By focusing on elements such as the office layout and decor, cleanliness, and personalized details, you can create an inviting atmosphere that fosters productivity and contentment.

Will Rogers