How to freshen up an outdated office space

A large portion of our lives is spent in our offices. When optimized, they create a space that fuels our energy and creativity. But when outdated, they can hold us back and leave us feeling uninspired and, quite frankly, bored and uninspired.

Fortunately, if you are experiencing the latter, some easy updates can turn things around for the better. Don’t allow an outdated office to hold you back. Modernize and update with these five tips.

1. A fresh coat of paint

   You will be amazed at what a fresh coat of paint can do to inspire. In fact, color can have a huge impact on how we feel and how we think.

   With so many options, how do you choose a paint color? Decide what mood you want to create in your office space and then dive into the world of Color Psychology. Yep, it’s a real thing.

   Did you know your surroundings may be influencing your emotions and state of mind? Do you ever notice that certain places especially irritate you? Or that certain places are especially relaxing and calming? Well, there’s a good chance that the colors in those spaces are playing a part.

   Color Psychology: The Emotional Effects of Colors, Art Therapy

2. Light it up

   What’s more depressing than working in a dark office? Along with a fresh coat of paint, lighting can do wonders in changing an environment. Illumination is an office essential after all.

   

   Update wall fixtures and your overhead lighting. Also, try floor lamps for corners that are just not getting hit with enough light. If you aren’t up for completely changing your fixtures, then try switching out your bulbs to create a different and brighter feel.

3. Add some art and decor

   “Art, undeniably, is conducive to happiness.”

   Add some pizzazz to blank office walls with some art or cute office supplies. You could purchase some paintings to hang or go the DIY route and have the whole office pitch in. Also consider non-conventional ideas like tapestries, decals, and murals.

   Another idea is to create an inspirational wall of quotes and pictures with your office goals and vision. Cork boards and dry erase whiteboards can become art too along with brand and mood boards.

   Pinterest is a wonderful place to get some inspiration. Check out these office wall art ideas. Don’t stop with the walls. Plants, rugs,  and desktop decor can add color and joy to an office space too.

4. Revamp the furniture

   Old and squeaky office chairs can be an eyesore and a literal pain. New furniture can bring an aged office into the modern world. Start with the chairs and desks as these get used the most.

   Tweaks in your desk setup can bring your office into the modern age and help everyone be more productively. If you really want a change, try switching to standing desks.

   

   Another furniture tip is to incorporate mobile furniture that can be rearranged easily when things start to feel dull or the current setup is no longer working. Rearranging is an easy way to completely change an environment, making collaboration easier for your teams.

5. Update your tech

   Technology updates can be a big investment so it’s important to consider the return you will receive with faster systems. Newer computers and equipment can help your teams work more quickly and efficiently saving time and money in the end.

   Collaboration tools and apps help you share in an easier way and even help generate money producing and money saving ideas.

   Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.

   Arthur C. Clarke

   Get your geek on by adding the latest and greatest in tech.  While you’re updating and adding to your office space, don’t forget to take away. Upgrade time is also a wonderful time to get rid of clutter and underused items.

Get the hive mind thinking

Ready to revamp your tired and worn out office space?

If you are still not sure where to start with your updates, get the team involved. Take a poll and decide together what would best help your office optimize the space available and make changes accordingly. After all, who better to give insights into the best work environment than those who are in it every day.

Cheers to renewed spaces and new frontiers.

There is no doubt that creativity is the most important human resource of all. Without creativity, there would be no progress, and we would be forever repeating the same patterns.

Edward de Bono

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