Renovating any space is both exciting and tedious. On one hand, it’s always fun to pick out new designs and have a mental image come to fruition. On the other hand. It can be tough waiting around and there always seems to be 1000 little issues that pop up along the way.
If you’re looking to renovate your commercial office space, then there are some crucial tips that you need to take into account before you start with the renovation process.
Below, we’re going to run over some of the most crucial things you need to think about.
Plan for the Future
While you should be thinking about how your office can suit you now, you also need to think of your future plans. Are you looking to increase the number of employees you have? Are you looking at adding new divisions?
It’s helpful here to refer back to your business plan or at least look at what you want your business to look like in the next five years. If not, then you could be looking at another renovation in a short amount of time.
With commercial real estate prices increasing every year, you want to make sure you’re maximizing your current renovation to keep your bills and expenditure to a minimum.
More Energy Efficiency
Businesses often overlook their utility expenses as ways to save money, but every dollar counts when looking to save on the bottom line. Even though you might already practice energy-saving techniques, you can turn your new commercial space into a more efficient area.
You can look to bring in more natural light to your building instead of relying on overhead lighting. Look to add more efficient tools, like smart light bulbs or even a smart thermostat to your space in order to cut back on energy.
It’s also a time to modernize your building and sometimes a simple upgrade can make your building more efficient. For example, some vents blow air into the upper part of your space when they should be blowing air directly outside.
Have a Realistic Schedule
Usually, renovations are mean that your office space or at least part of your office space will be out of commission for the future. These renovations, while they could be beneficial for your future, could mean halting some business operations.
Consider carrying out the renovations during a “low-point” of your business’ year when you have the least amount of foot traffic or work to do.
You’re also going to want to be realistic and not set lofty goals that only have a chance of being successful. Being honest with yourself is going to help your customers and fellow employees know what to expect.
Plan a Meticulous Budget
While you might have everything planned down to the cent, the general rule of thumb is to plan for 10% more in expenditures. You never know what last-minute changes may be made or extra materials that need to be used.
The worst thing would be to stop the project while you wait to raise enough money for completion. That’s only going to set your timeline back even further and make things more difficult for you and your customer base.
Turn to the Pros
While you might be a handy DIYer, renovating commercial space should largely be left at the hands of commercial construction companies. There are plenty of codes and laws that need to be followed with commercial space and it’s better leaving those up to those who know all about these issues.
It’s always best to check online reviews or ask around and see who has recommendations in the area. Make sure you go with a reputable company that has great experience renovating commercial space.
Don’t Forget About Outside
You might be aware that proper landscaping and plants can increase a home’s value. Well, things like plants, landscaping, and even flags flying from a couple of commercial flagpoles, can also do wonders for your commercial space.
It’s important to remember that first appearances matter greatly and you want to have an exterior that’s welcoming to people, both your employees and customers alike.
You don’t have to create the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, but you can plant some flowers, keep the walkways clean, and make some proper signage to give a great first, outer impression.
