6 Mistakes Interior Design in Manila Avoid When Designing Your Next Office
When considering “interior design for office,” in Manila contemporary trends like “hybrid,” “flexible,” “collaborative,” and even “biophilia” often come to mind. If your company is gearing up to relocate or refurbish, it’s crucial not to get lost in trendy catchphrases and aesthetic mood boards at the expense of human-centered office design principles.
To ensure your new office not only looks great but also enables employees to thrive, here are six common office design mistakes to steer clear of:
- Inadequate Ergonomics: Neglecting ergonomic design can lead to discomfort and health issues among employees. Avoid pitfalls such as uncomfortable chairs, improper desk heights, poor lighting, and incorrect placement of keyboards and monitors. Invest in ergonomic furniture and educate employees on maintaining proper posture.
- Lack of Flexibility: A rigid office layout can hinder collaboration and innovation by not adapting to changing needs. Avoid fixed, permanent spaces that can’t be easily reconfigured. Opt for modular furniture, movable partitions, and adaptable layouts that evolve with your company.
- Poor Space Planning: Inefficient use of space can lead to cramped work areas, wasted square footage, and disrupted workflows. Avoid overcrowding by ensuring ample room for movement and collaboration. Consider traffic flow, access to shared facilities, and the balance between private and open workspaces.
- Neglecting Acoustics: Noise pollution can significantly impact productivity and well-being. Avoid offices with poor acoustic properties that amplify noise and hinder concentration. Integrate sound-absorbing materials, private meeting rooms, and designated quiet zones to manage noise levels effectively.
- Inadequate Lighting: Insufficient or harsh lighting strains eyes and affects mood and focus negatively. Avoid relying solely on overhead fluorescent lights. Incorporate natural light where possible, adjustable task lighting, and ambient lighting to create a well-lit and comfortable workspace.
- Failing to Be Inclusive: Recognize that individuals process sensory cues differently, with some showing greater neurodiversity. Embrace these differences to foster a more diverse and inclusive work environment. Ensure your office design supports employees with disabilities or neurodivergent needs.
Beyond meeting business needs, modern offices must adapt to new norms like remote work while preserving company culture and fostering community and belonging. With over 27 years of experience in commercial interior design and build across Asia, we specialize in guiding you through these transitions. Contact us today to explore how we can support your office renovation project, whether it’s in Manila or beyond.
