Planning an office space that perfectly fits your team’s needs is a crucial step in fostering productivity, creativity and future growth. Calculating the right amount of office space is not just about avoiding cramped or excessively large spaces, it’s about creating an environment where your business can thrive. In this post we discuss what space you may need and other such considerations needed to create a cohesive workplace.

Understanding Your Office Space Requirements

Some Key Factors to Consider

The more employees you have, the more space you’ll need. Consider not just the number of current employees, but also projected growth.
Besides workstations, think about the space needed for reception areas, kitchens, meeting rooms, and other amenities.
Decide whether you prefer an open-plan or a closed-plan office. Each has its own advantages and space requirements.

Calculating Office Space Needs

To start, calculate your current space requirements and create a strategic plan for future needs. This involves visualising your dream office and considering long term goals. Ask yourself:

What are your business expectations for the next year? Five years?
Do you want to maximise current space usage or plan for additional employees?
What type of office layout will best suit your business operations?

Average Office Space Requirements

General Office Work

For general office work, the average space required per employee is around 12 to 14 square metres. This includes space for individual workstations, storage, meeting rooms, office furniture and communal areas like kitchens and break rooms.

Professional Services

For professional services like law firms or medical practices, which often require private offices and meeting rooms, the average space per employee ranges from 14 to 20 square metres.

Shared Amenities and Mechanical Services

Remember to factor in space for shared amenities and mechanical services, such as air conditioning, electrical systems and fire exits. These are essential for a safe and functional office environment.

Planning for Future Growth

Projected Team Growth

When planning your office space, consider your business growth projections. Adding 10-20% more square footage than currently needed can accommodate future growth and save on relocation costs.

Lease Agreements

Ensure your lease terms align with your business growth plans. If you anticipate significant growth, look for larger spaces that can accommodate this. Conversely, avoid leasing too much space if your growth projections are modest.

Office Layout Options

Open-Plan Offices

Open-plan offices promote communication and collaboration among employees. This layout typically involves rows of desks in a large, shared space with few private offices.

Closed-Plan Offices

Closed-plan offices, on the other hand, provide privacy and a quieter work environment. This layout is ideal for businesses that require confidential workspaces, such as legal or financial firms.

Combination Layouts

Many businesses benefit from a combination of open and closed-plan layouts. This allows for both collaborative workspaces and private areas for focused work or meetings.

Careful Planning And Consideration

Determining the right amount of office space involves careful planning and consideration of various factors, from employee numbers and office layout to future growth and compliance with building codes. We are committed to helping you create an office space that supports your business’s productivity, creativity and growth. So for expert advice on planning your office space, contact us today.