5 Ways to Elevate Your Space with Office Wall Art

office wall art

Office wall art is one of the simplest ways to upgrade your workspace and add a touch of character. When paired with elegant office furniture and carefully placed lighting, it helps to create a vibrant and cheerful environment that fosters creativity, productivity, and overall well-being. 

Whether you prefer bold abstract prints, calming landscapes, or motivational quotes, office art offers endless possibilities to personalise your space and express your unique style.

Why Should You Invest in Wall Art for Your Office?

Planning an office fit out or want to enhance your existing space? Wall art can help to tie your design scheme together and create a cohesive look that reflects your brand’s identity and values. By showing off your personality, you can create a fun and inspiring space for staff while leaving a lasting impression on visiting clients.

So, how can you make the most out of your office artwork?

Here are 5 office wall art ideas that will transform your space:

1. Add an Abstract Canvas to Modernise Your Workplace

If an office refurbishment is on the cards, abstract art is a great way to complement a contemporary design scheme.

Pioneered by artists like Kandinsky and Mondrian, abstract expressionism emerged in the early 20th century, placing emphasis on the emotional impact of shapes, colours, lines, and textures.

To pick the best abstract art for your space, consider the lines of your desks, the curvature of your chairs, and the shapes of your light fittings. By opting for large geometric shapes or free-flowing line work, you can mimic shapes from your furniture to create a multi-dimensional space that feels both unified and expressive.

office wall art

2. Be Bold with Branded Decals

Branded decals are a simple yet effective way to reinforce your brand identity and create a sense of belonging among employees.

These versatile vinyl stickers can be applied to walls, windows, doors, or even furniture, adding a touch of personality and professionalism to your office.

Decals can feature your company logo, slogan, or even your mission statement, serving as a constant reminder of your company’s values and goals. They can also be used to create visually appealing patterns or designs that complement your overall aesthetic. 

Consider using a series of decals to create a dynamic and engaging wall mural. Or, apply them to glass partitions to create privacy while still allowing natural light to filter through.

3. Enjoy the Versatility of Picture-Perfect Prints

If you’ve not quite got the budget for an original Monet or Rembrandt, prints are the perfect alternative!

Prints are an affordable and versatile way to bring museum-quality art into your workspace. With a vast array of styles, subjects, and sizes available, you can easily find designs that align with your brand’s aesthetic and resonate with your employees and clients.

From classic masterpieces to contemporary photography, there are endless possibilities. Create a gallery wall showcasing a curated collection of prints, or make a bold statement with a single large-scale piece.

4. Add Motivational Wall Art to Uplift Your Employees

According to data published by TeamStage, motivated staff are almost 90% less likely to leave a job. So, if you want to retain your staff, motivational messaging is a must-have!

Motivational wall art can take many forms, from inspirational quotes and uplifting imagery to scenes depicting teamwork and success. By strategically placing motivational art throughout your office, you can send a positive message to your employees and help them stay focused and inspired throughout the workday.

branded wall art

Consider placing prints in common areas like break rooms or hallways, where they can be seen and appreciated by everyone. 

You can also add motivational artwork to individual workstations or meeting rooms to create a more personalised and uplifting feel.

4. Use Biophilic Elements to Create a Feature Wall

If you’ve been following us for a while now, you’ll know that we’re big fans of office plants

But why limit your office greenery to a few plant pots, when you can go all out and create a stunning feature wall with biophilic elements?

A biophilic feature wall can be a show-stopping focal point that instantly transforms your workspace into a calm and inspiring oasis. Go for a low-maintenance artificial plant selection, or opt for pre-grown panels or pocket systems, which are designed to house real plants.

biofillic wall art

Ready to Transform Your Tired Workspace? 

If you’re looking to inject some personality into your place of work but aren’t sure where to start, get in touch with our design experts. We’ll work with you to design a brand-centred office space that reflects your company values and empowers staff to reach their full potential. 

Head over to our homepage to find out more about why we’re Southwest’s trusted choice for office fit outs and interior design

Gen Z in the Workplace: Designing Offices to Attract Fresh Talent

Gen Z in the Workplace: Designing Offices to Attract Fresh Talent

Despite what you might assume, designing for Gen Z in the workplace isn’t all about TikTok backdrops and fridges fully stocked with Prime. (Although these things might earn you a few extra brownie points.)

When compared with previous generations, Gen Z are more eco-conscious, more tech-savvy, and far more value-driven. So, if you want to attract fresh talent, your office design needs to reflect this. 

Whether you’re opting for a full office fit out or simply want to give your space a “glow up”, these helpful tips will help you to snag the Gen Z seal of approval!

Gen Z at work

What We Know About Gen Z at Work

Predicted to make up over a quarter of the workforce by 2025, Gen Z is the first generation to have grown up entirely in the digital age. Born between the mid-to-late 90s and the early 2010s, they’ve only known a world with the internet, smartphones, and social media. This unique upbringing has shaped their values, expectations, and preferences — both in their personal lives and the workplace.

So, how can we accommodate Gen Z employees?

Office Designs Need to Be Flexible

Gen Z values flexibility and autonomy in their work. Instead of being confined to a traditional desk setup, they want the option to choose where and how they work.

To support hybrid working and the frequency of video calls, it’s vital to provide spaces that are quiet, well-equipped and zoned off from the main working area. This might include office meeting pods or booths for private calls, designated zones for focused work, and open collaborative areas equipped with large screens for group projects and presentations.

Gen Z Workers Want a Sustainable Workplace

Having grown up amidst the escalating climate crisis, Gen Z employees are passionate about tackling environmental issues, and you should be too! 

If you want to create a more sustainable workplace, it’s helpful to plan your office refurbishment around eco-friendly design features. You could opt for reclaimed or recycled materials, incorporate energy-efficient LED lighting, or install smart thermostats to save energy. These elements will not only reduce your company’s carbon footprint, but they’ll also resonate with the values of Gen Z staff, making your workplace a more attractive destination for top talent who care about the planet.

sustainable workplace

They Want an Inclusive Workplace

In a recent study, 76% of Gen Z reported that diversity and inclusion is important to them. With more conversations being had around workplace accessibility and neurodiversity, our workplaces need to reflect these evolving priorities and cater to a broader range of needs and preferences. 

To create a more inclusive environment for your staff, consider adding adjustable lighting to cater to different light sensitivities, ergonomic seating to promote physical comfort, and office acoustic solutions to reduce unwanted noise and distractions.

Office Spaces Need to Be Tech-Friendly 

Having grown up with technology, Gen Z expects a workplace that seamlessly integrates technology into their daily tasks. So, ensure your office has fast and reliable Wi-Fi, easy access to charging stations, and spaces that are conducive to virtual collaboration. 

If you want to go one step further, consider incorporating smart technology like occupancy sensors for lighting and temperature control, wireless presentation systems, or interactive whiteboards. These innovative solutions will elevate your workspace to the next level and impress even the most tech-savvy Gen Zer.

Wellbeing is a Top Priority

Well-being should never be overlooked!

Gen Z workers place a high value on their physical and mental well-being, so incorporating elements to promote wellness is key. Think of plenty of natural light, plants, ergonomic office furniture, and designated relaxation areas. 

You could also offer healthy snacks or fitness classes to add some fun to the workplace while boosting morale and fostering a sense of community.

Gen Z at work

Need to attract more Gen Z talent?

If you’re eager to create a brand new office space that will attract top Gen Z talent, we’d love to help! As office design and fit out experts, we’ve helped countless businesses to transform their workspaces into vibrant hubs of creativity and collaboration, perfectly tailored to the needs and preferences of the modern workforce. 

We understand the unique expectations of your staff and will work closely with you to design a space that not only meets these expectations but exceeds them. Contact us today to get started!

Inclusive Office Design: Designing for Accessibility in the Workplace

Office Kitchen with plants on lights and a plant pot in the corner of room

When it comes to giving your workspace a makeover, whether this is a fit out or a full refurbishment, there are many things to consider but there is one element that should be at the forefront of your design: accessibility.

When you prioritise accessibility in your workplace design, you go beyond creating a functional space; you create an environment that fosters inclusion, empowers your team, and values diversity. An accessible workplace demonstrates a commitment to ensuring all employees can contribute their best work and collaborate seamlessly.

Importance of Accessibility in the Workplace

Accessibility is crucial and that is why it plays such a significant role in why your office layout matters. When you prioritise accessibility, you allow individuals with disabilities to participate in all aspects of work-life. Employees with disabilities should have equal opportunities to contribute and succeed within the workplace from being able to access the physical office to its meeting rooms and even being able to use technology and other systems in place.

Prioritising accessibility in the workplace fosters a culture of inclusivity and respect for diversity. When employees see that their organisation is committed to accommodating their needs and removing barriers to participation, they feel valued, supported, and empowered to perform at their very best.

Meeting room with acoustic solutions - acoustic walls

4 Key Considerations for Designing An Accessible Workplace

1. Physical Office Accessibility

The foundation of an accessible workplace is ensuring a smooth and safe physical environment for everyone. This means creating barrier-free entry and exit points with automatic doors or easy-to-open handles. Bathrooms should be accessible, featuring wider stalls and grab bars. 

Hallways and doorways need ample width to allow for comfortable movement, and ramps or lifts should easily connect different floors and office levels. By making break areas and common areas accessible, such as lowering water fountains or installing accessible surfaces, employees can navigate the entire workspace freely and participate in all aspects of their work day.

2. Adjustable Office Furniture

In the realm of office ergonomics, adjustable office furniture has become a game-changer. Desks with electric or manual height adjustments empower employees to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day, promoting better posture, circulation, and overall well-being. 

Adjustable chairs with lumbar support and customisable armrests can be tailored to individual body types, reducing strain and discomfort. These features, along with monitor arms that allow for optimal screen positioning, create a workstation that adapts to the user, leading to a more comfortable and productive work experience.

3. Sensory Office Considerations

Not everyone thrives in the typical open office environment. Thankfully, creating a sensory-friendly workspace is becoming an increasingly recognised aspect of accessibility. This includes offering designated quiet spaces with good acoustics for focused work, free from distracting noise or clutter. For those with auditory sensitivities, noise-cancelling headphones can be a welcome accommodation. 

Lighting can also be a factor, so adjustable office lighting that allows for dimming or cooler tones can help reduce eye strain and headaches. By acknowledging sensory sensitivities and offering solutions, workplaces can foster a more comfortable and productive environment for a wider range of employees.

4. Accessible Meeting Spaces

Ensuring inclusivity should also extend to meeting rooms. Ideally, these spaces should be large enough to accommodate wheelchairs with ease, featuring wide doorways and round tables to avoid obstructing movement. Accessible features within the room itself are essential, including lowered counters for presentations and controls, and assistive listening systems for those with hearing impairments. 

Additionally, meeting spaces should be well-lit and have proper ventilation to cater to those with visual or respiratory sensitivities. By creating these accessible meeting environments, everyone can fully participate and contribute to collaborative discussions.

By implementing these elements of inclusive design, your office transformation goes beyond aesthetics; it becomes a powerful symbol of your commitment to a diverse and thriving workforce. Imagine an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. This is the power of an accessible workplace – a space designed for everyone to contribute their best and unlock innovation and success together.

 

Creating Accessibility In the Workplace With McFeggan Brown

Our comprehensive office fit-out service goes beyond mere aesthetics. We recognise and understand the unique requirements of your team, ensuring every aspect of your office design is tailored to promote inclusivity and accessibility for all. Contact us today to get started on creating your accessible office design.

If you liked this blog. Check out our blog ‘How to Design a Co-working Space or ‘18 Office Design Ideas That Will Transform Your Workspace’.

Green Office: Creating A Sustainable Office Environment

Office communal area

Sustainable office design is a crucial discussion that every business must have. We often hear talk about what we can do to minimise our impact on the environment at home – recycling, switching to energy-efficient bulbs, insulating our homes, driving less and so on, but we don’t often hear about what we can do to reduce our environmental impact at work. 

Let’s take a look at some sustainable office ideas for those looking for sustainable office fit out.

Why Should An Office Go Green?

Sustainable office designs have been a hot topic for a few years now. With global warming, pollution, and not to mention the huge impact that the many well-known corporate giants are having on the planet, it is no surprise, according to Weston Williams news, that sustainable office refurbishments are increasing in demand to attract and retain employees and customers.

So, as you now know, sustainable office designs are something that every business should be looking at if they are to keep up with the times. Workspace design is a great place to start and there are many ways to incorporate natural elements and recyclable products into your green office. 

Sustainable Office Lighting 

Reduce your energy output by installing energy-efficient office lighting. Make sure the lights are switched off whenever the office isn’t in use and take advantage of natural light from windows during the day. Don’t forget, these changes will also reduce your energy bills so it’s a win-win!

Office lighting with green and purple lights

Incorporate Plants Into Your Green Office Design 

Not only does incorporating greenery into your office design create a positive and welcoming environment for your clients and staff, it also removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and generates oxygen which has a positive effect on employee mental health

Sustainable Office Furniture & Equipment

Sustainable office furniture is another great way to start your sustainable office journey. When buying new office furniture, consider low-maintenance furnishings and purchase eco-conscious products made with recycled materials. Wherever possible, opt for multi-functional equipment so there is less plastic to dispose of and replace when it breaks.  

Incorporating ergonomic office furniture into your workspace not only enhances employee comfort and productivity but also contributes to a sustainable office design as ergonomic chairs, desks, and accessories promote proper posture, reducing the risk of injuries and absenteeism.

Office fit out of office withsofas and and plants

Reduce & Recycle

One of the fundamental ways to achieve a green office is to make sure your office has enough recycling bins. Your recycling bins should be easily accessible and clearly labelled – the more visible they are, the more obliged your employees will be to use them. We also recommend placing them next to any rubbish bins you have to give your staff the option to recycle every time they head over to the bin to throw something away. 

Paper is essential for many businesses, but overusing and wasting paper is damaging to the planet. Encourage your team to print less and digitise as many documents as possible – this way they can be shared by email or accessed online.

For those documents that just can’t be made paperless, switch to using recycled paper and recycle your own paper too.

Discuss Ideas With Your Team

Put your heads together and develop ideas as a team. Not only will this help your business on its journey towards becoming more of a sustainable office, but it’ll also act as a team-building activity as you work together to generate a plan.

Think Outside The Box

There are more ways to encourage sustainability in the workplace than you think. You could offer branded reusable water bottles to deter staff from purchasing plastic bottles or stock the stationery cupboard with reusable pens.

You may wish to encourage your employees to lead an environmentally-friendly lifestyle outside of the office too. For example, you could install a bike shed and inspire your employees to cycle to work, instead of commuting by the bus or train.

Office Kitchen

Achieve A Green Office With McFeggan

If you’re looking to refurbish your office workspace and become more sustainable, please get in touch and organise a consultation with one of our experts today.

If you enjoyed this blog, you might be interested in some of our other blogs – 8 office design trends for 2024 and Why Your Office Interior Matters.