There’s a growing awareness of companies realising how their workplace environment is significantly impacting their staff’s productivity, rather than just how many hours they are at their desk. But trying to set up the workplace as a strategic tool which contributes to collaboration, growth and increased productivity is easier said than done. What works successfully varies from one office to the next. It also depends on the company culture, as well as how employees prefer to work. Here are five evergreen and innovative ways to redefine the workplace. 1. Set up hot desks With the increase of laptops and wi-fi, […]

If you’re underutilising your office design and style, a small office can feel overwhelming and confined to work in, stifle productivity and give clients or new starters a poor first impression. Even if you’re working in a small floorplan, there are simple ways you can make your office feel bigger and spacious during your fitout. At Urban Group, we work with all kinds of office spaces and environments, and we’re here to share our most valuable tips with you. Consider herringbone floors Characterised by rectangular shapes, herringbone floors, in either wood or tile, are a great way to add a […]

Getting started on your office fitout can feel like an overwhelming and challenging task. It requires a wealth of new knowledge, and changes that may impact your team and business. But making sure you have information to get started will help you plan your way to a successful office fitout. Start your plan with a checklist These thirteen steps will help you stay on track when planning your fitout. This step by step guide to help you achieve a stress free office fitout that actually sticks to your budget. Keep these steps in mind when you’re discussing your proposed fitout […]

Starting the journey of your medical clinic fit out comes with a wealth of importance. Your clinic’s fit out should be functional, aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting and practical, all while bringing your brand to life. Providing a comfortable and calming environment for your patients as they come to your dental clinic is important for the old-school word-of-mouth tactic for getting your business out there. It’s highly likely if customers are enjoying what is usually an uncomfortable experience, they’ll recommend you to their friends and family. Simple amenities like providing water, comfortable seating and up-to-date furniture can completely change the way patients […]

While your organisation continues to grow in size, the amount of floor space needed to accommodate new staff members will quickly start to shrink. Any new hire will need a dedicated workspace to perform their work comfortably. You will also need to try to keep existing employees who frequently collaborate close. An unfortunate side effect is a decrease in employee’s personal space. This leads to an environment that is not always collaborative or positive. When remaining space becomes an issue, management often thinks the solution is to move to a bigger building. But often, the answer is found with office […]

Office design is an integral part of the success and productivity of any business. And while companies are geared for growth, most workspaces are accommodated in smaller areas than required. Designers are coming up with innovative ways to make the most out of workplace environments and increase productivity and creativity. Here’s a look at the new office design trends for 2019 which are set to be at the forefront of modern office design. Work zones for different tasks Employee moods have a substantial impact on productivity. Spaces which motivate employees will always deliver the best results. Workers are no longer […]

Current workplace trends are moving away from traditional closed-door offices. Innovative businesses are now embracing an open office floor plan. This also includes senior management at many large companies, like Netflix CEO Reed Hastings. Hastings gave up his private office for a more collaborative workplace. Which is what an open office floor plan provides. So, is an open office floor plan the way of the future? The verdict is still out. Gensler believes that employees in an open office layout are as productive as those in private offices. But they have extra benefits such as greater creativity, collaboration, and cost […]

Why office sustainability? Businesses have started to realise the importance of sustainability and “green” initiatives in the workplace. And it’s no surprise–according to the Australian Government, by 2021, Australians could save more than $600 million on our water and energy bills just by using more water efficient appliances and products! As these efforts become publicly encouraged in our homes and workplaces, it’s important to educate your employees on office sustainability and “green” initiatives. Sustainability initiatives don’t only have financial benefits such as energy conservation, studies have also determined they increase employee retention, productivity, and engagement. Yet a lot of companies […]

An innovative and progressive office space is something that has dramatically increased in importance in the modern business environment – and one that’s common across the best offices in Australia in 2018. In order to attract the top candidates, the best talent, and the hardest workers, emulating elements of the offices on this list can help make your business a sought after working environment. Atlassian Atlassian are often cited as the authority on office culture and workplace innovation in Australia. The international startup headquartered in Martin Place, Sydney, have always been praised for their open-plan working environment, which greatly encourages […]