8 Ideas for Office Design on a Budget

If you’re thinking of making changes to your office space, then it’s a good idea to consider your budget before getting in touch with interior designers.

Equally, it’s good to have some idea as to what you want to achieve.

The bigger budget you have the more you can do with your workspace design. That said, if you’re on the lower end of the budget scale, you can still create an aesthetically pleasing and functional workspace if you spend wisely.

If you are working to a tight budget, we’ve compiled a list of economical design ideas for you to consider. Read on for our top 8 cost-effective ideas for office design on a budget!

1. Opt for an Open Plan Layout

In an open plan office, employees work within an exposed floor plan and often share workstations. The open layout also has few, if any, individual rooms, with some companies simply implementing one for a director.

Naturally, offices with several rooms and a reception are at the higher end of the budget scale. Therefore, going open plan is a cost-effective alternative – especially is you are a new business.

The great thing about an open plan office with shared workstations is that you can still accommodate a sizeable team. So, if you’re in a situation where you need to employ more staff, the open layout can facilitate this growth.

2. Introduce Makeshift Department Dividers

If you do opt for an open layout, then makeshift dividers are an economical way to maintain a departmental feel. A privacy screen will do the job, but you can get creative by using storage solutions and furniture.

If you’re willing to stretch your budget a little further, consider introducing glass partitions as dividers. In contrast to stud partition walls, they don’t block natural sunlight so you can enjoy the rays all year round.

3. Buy Economical Desks, Chairs and Storage

All good interior fit out companies will tell you there is nothing wrong with budget office furniture and storage – they just don’t come with the handy extras. For example, some desks are now height-adjustable, while some chairs are made with sophisticated ‘ergonomic’ technology for enhanced comfort.

If you’re looking for economical furniture which will perform a basic function, try the following:

• Standard Desks – Cantilever or goalpost frame desks are functional and inexpensive. If you like the idea of a height-adjustable desk as well, consider introducing one as a ‘standing workstation’.
• Task Chairs – Upholstered task chairs are both comfortable and cost-effective. Alternatively, mesh back office chairs are also very economical and prevent sweaty backs in the summer!
• Metal Storage – Unless you have a no-paper policy, filing cabinets, pedestals and additional storage solutions are a must in your office. Consider metal storage for an inexpensive option.

Not only are the desk and storage options practical, but they also come in a range of finishes including standard white, oak, beech and maple. It just goes to show that, even if you are looking for a new office design on a budget, there are plenty of options available.

4. Create a Minimalist Aesthetic

Consider the following:

• A Simple, Bright Colour Scheme – White walls combined with company brand colours are always a winner. This combination will make your space look bright and spacious and create a sense of company identity.
• Company Signage – If you are going for the above colour scheme, introducing company signage via a vinyl graphic will compliment it perfectly. You could even go a step further and add your company motto.
• Artificial/Real Plant Displays – Needless to say, artificial plants are cost-effective because they don’t wilt and die. That said, real plants are no great expense either – they just require a little extra TLC.

If you are looking for a functional office design on a budget, the ‘less is more’ approach is probably your best bet. Not only can you create an inviting space for staff, the fact that you save money means you can invest in other areas of the business.

5. Introduce a Feature Wall

Feature walls offer an inexpensive way to add a little more personality to your office. Moreover, they provide another way to help instill your brand identity. For example, if you have an eco-friendly ethos, add a forest scene to your wall.

6. Make Use of Existing Features

If you work in an old building, chances are it contains existing period features like decorative coving or a fireplace. While your initial thought may to be rip these out, you could save money simply by refurbishing them.

By mixing period features with a modern design, you can also add to the aesthetic interest to your space. Check out how Rap Interiors did exactly that by refurbishing Martin Tolhurst’s ageing office space in Gravesend, Kent.

7. Install a Tea Point

If you don’t have the budget for an office café, tea points are a practical alternative. They are compact, stylish, and are good for staff happiness.

Experienced office interior designers will plan the build so seating is included too. This creates the perfect environment for ad-hoc meetings, staff lunches or quiet working.

8. Get Advice From Office Interior Designers

Ultimately, the best solution is to get in touch with experts for advice. A good fit out company will have a team of designers and estimators who spend all day working to specified budgets. So if you’re looking to save cash they can give you plenty of guidance. Some contractors will even offer free design consultations to help you gauge how far your budget will take you!