How to Prepare for your Office Remodel

Is your Class A office space still rocking a classic 70s style? Does the space feel dark and outdated? If so, you may be ready to transform your workspace into a modern, stylish, and productive environment.

An office remodel is a big undertaking and requires specialized expertise and organization. Plan ahead to ensure you choose the best construction professionals and avoid unexpected mishaps down the line.

Take a look at these 7 steps for preparing for a successful Class A office space renovation.

 

Understand Why

Setting goals is a best practice before starting any big venture, and especially so for a major office remodel. Before committing to this undertaking, make sure you are clear on your objectives and understand why the remodel is necessary.

Identify reasons beyond simply wanting to work in a nicer, newer space. Often, these goals center around the well being of the people using the space, achieving certain productivity goals, and staying relevant and attractive in a competitive market.

 

Talk To Your Employees

Getting input from your employees is a smart way to ensure you’re making the best decisions for your company. Your workers can provide a valuable look into day-to-day life at the office and will have suggestions for improving the efficiency of your space.

Consider distributing an employee survey to dig deeper into the workplace experience. This survey should help reveal how employees currently use the space as well as their thoughts on how the office looks, feels, and functions.

 

Here are some example questions you may want to include in your survey:

  • How does the workplace currently support your work? Where is it lacking?
  • How much of your time is spent in meetings? What is your average meeting size? Where do you currently meet?
  • How does the current workspace help you connect with teammates, both inside and outside of the company?
  • Does the office allow you the amount of privacy you need to be successful?
  • Where in the office do you spend the majority of your workday?
  • What would you change about the current workspace?
  • What would you keep about the current workspace?

 

Identify Your Vision

You probably have some general ideas about what you want your remodeled Class A office space to look like. Now is the time to put it down on paper. Outlining your vision will make it easier to communicate with your contractor and ensure you’re on the same page.

Here are a few things to think about for inspiration:

 

Natural Lighting

Consider what opportunities your space has for allowing more natural light. Natural lighting is a great way to boost mental alertness and save on electricity costs. Can you tear down walls to bring in light to interior spaces? What about adding skylights or sun tunnels?

 

Acoustic Environment

An important thing to consider in an office environment is the potential for noise. Will you be creating an open workspace environment? Or closing off your space into offices? Think about soundproofing options as well as the potential of echoes.

 

Streamlining

What common office tasks could you make easier with an office redesign? Does your receptionist currently have to walk across the office to get to the printer and copier? Are filing cabinets spread out across the office when it would make more sense for them to be in one spot? This is where the information in your employee surveys will be especially handy.

 

Colors

What type of colors do you want to use throughout your space? Plan to choose calming colors or those inspiring creativity and collaboration.

 

Take Advantage Of Your Building’s Strengths

Now that you have your inspiration, think about how your current office features could potentially fit into your vision. For example, maybe your lighting fixtures are in good condition and can be used in your new look. Maybe your hardwood floors could simply use some refinishing.

Also, think about the structure of the building– are there easy opportunities for increasing ceiling height or letting in more light? Identify the best features of the building and how you can incorporate them into your redesign.

 

Set A Budget

Establishing a budget is obviously an important step in the planning process. You may already have a specific amount allocated for a remodel or perhaps you’re willing to pay any amount.

If this is your first office remodel rodeo, plan to do some homework on the topic. This will help prevent huge surprises along the way. It also ensures you’ll feel comfortable with the quote you receive from your contractor.

There are three specific things you should take into consideration:

  1. The size of your office space
  2. How extensive your renovations will be
  3. The type of materials you’ll be using

Other factors to address include the age and condition of your office building as well as the operating ability of all mechanical and electrical systems.

Aim to work with a contractor who is committed to working within your budget. It’s also smart to prepare a contingency budget in case something comes up that’s truly out of the control of you or your contractor. A good rule of thumb is to have a contingency fund equal to about 10% of your budget.

 

Find A Temporary Working Space

After you’ve met with your contractor, finalized your renovation plans, and established a timeline, you’ll likely need to move your employees to a temporary workspace. Plan for this ahead of time so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.

Talk to your contractor about the work process– will they be moving from room to room? Can you simply transfer affected employees to another part of your office? Depending on the scope of work, you may want to consider renting out a nearby space.

Keep your employees and clients in mind throughout this process. For instance, moving everyone to a location across town could be an inconvenience for many.

 

Develop A Communication Plan

Big changes in the office can cause anxiety amongst your workers– especially if the process, expectations, and outcomes are not explained effectively. Plan for how you will communicate with both your employees and your clients/customers before, during, and after this remodeling project.

Before The Remodel

Start by communicating the vision and intent of the renovations to key staff members. Getting these leaders on the same page from the get-go is a smart step toward limiting miscommunication. Presenting plans or sample boards can be a great way to get everyone on the same page.

During The Remodel

Send out regular updates to employees on how the project is going as well as any timeline changes. Let employees know they can ask questions or voice concerns along the way.

After The Remodel

Communicate and educate employees on any new processes or operating procedures due to the remodel. You may also want to organize a welcome house party or another employee event to celebrate the project’s completion and thank your workers for their cooperation.

 

Bring Your Office Remodel To Life

Are you ready to remodel your Portland Class A office space? Talk to us here at BnK Construction, Inc. We house the most experienced construction professionals in the Portland area and have over 75 years of combined industry experience.

Our team is dedicated to working with you to create original office designs that meet your unique style and vision. No matter your budget, we can accomplish amazing Class A office remodeling results. Call us at (503) 557-0866 with your questions and discuss your upcoming office remodeling project.

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