Whether you’re moving into a new space or revamping your existing one, understanding the basics of commercial interior design is an easy way to make small (but impactful) changes to your space. It’ll also help you out if you’re planning on working with office fitout specialist.

Focusing on balance

There are three types of balance to create in your office space; asymmetrical, radial and symmetrical. It’s important to keep these in mind to achieve a space that feels open to avoid feeling cramped. With symmetrical, everything on one side is similar to the other side. The desk may be in the middle, with an equal number of chairs on each side. The walls may have the same number of pictures or shelves.

Asymmetrical balance is easier to achieve and works by having objects that are different from one another, but have the same amount of eye appeal. You can judge this by using the height or weight of the piece. Radial symmetry focuses on a central point with things “spiralling” outward, most often used in meeting or board rooms.

Working on rhythm

Most people don’t think of rhythm in their office, but repetition is essential to create balance and calmness. Using a style or theme of colours, textures and patterns is a great way to see your brand through your office.

In terms of colours, use these helpful tips to choose your pallet or seek guidance from your fitout specialist. To reflect light, use white or bright pastel colours. Brighter yellows and greens can be used for more creative spaces, but stay away from reds, as they often trigger feelings of urgency and encourage a more abrasive style to work.

Don’t be fearful of using contrasting colours; these can be a great way to draw the eye to a standout feature. For example, if you’ve mostly used neutral tones through your space you can add eye-catching pops of colour through flowers, books, and other accent pieces to give the eye an unexpected surprise!

Setting the scene

While these aren’t necessarily design features, temperature and sound go a long way in impacting the senses, as with most design elements.

Maintaining a temperature between 22 – 25 degrees suit most people’s body temperature and induces the greatest sense of productivity. It works through the climate changes of all seasons, so your employees will feel comfortable and constant at work. Using sound in your office may be variable depending on your industry, but background music is a great way to break up silence and effectively encourage the brain to concentrate and focus. If you can’t have music in the background (or if your team can’t decide on their favourite tracks), you can offer earplugs to those who work best with music in their ears.

For other easy commercial interior design tips, get in touch an office fitout specialist!