We talked recently about how an office fit out can help your office grow – but what if you’re considering a relocation instead? How can you be sure which option is best for your staff, your spending and your sanity?
Check out this list of pros and cons for a few of the things worth considering before you decide.
Expenditure
Of course an office relocation will come at considerable cost – and it’s likely you’ll still need to spend on the new place to ensure it ticks all the right boxes for your company, values and colleagues. Even a brand-new office won’t have the exact room configuration or office furniture you need – not to mention your corporate colours and branding which helps to set your office apart from the rest.
Depending on where your potential new office is, you’ll need to consider the cost per square foot of fitting out a new space, on top of other potential costs like stamp duty and professional fees for surveyors and solicitors.
By contrast, an office fit out of your current premises could work out better given it would not include the extra costs associated with relocation. But of course, this is dependent on the selection of an experienced office fit out company that can deliver the value you need.
Use of Space
Your staff numbers may have changed recently, or – like many other offices – your daily occupancy needs might have evolved, post-lockdown. Or maybe you’ve taken on new team members and feel you’ve outgrown where you are at the moment.
In either case, it may seem sensible to consider moving to a new office that is more your ‘current’ size. But, you’ll still incur the costs as detailed above – and maybe all you actually need is a rethink to make better use of your space.
An office fit out which incorporates a comprehensive space planning service should help make the most of your space for years to come
Staff Disruption
If you’re considering relocating to somewhere nearby, does it have the same facilities that your staff currently value, like:
- Sufficient on-site parking
- Good public transport links
- Nearby shops, bars and restaurants
- Green spaces for break times
And if you’re thinking of somewhere further away, have you considered if your current team will even be able to take on a new commute? Assuming you have got everyone on board with an office move, are you prepared for the inevitable interruptions to the service you provide?
This could include gaps in customer communication, disruptions to deliveries and other logistical issues. For far less stress, you might want to consider an office fit out, which could actually enhance staff productivity as a result.
It’s well-documented that a refresh that takes into account staff wellbeing and visitor appeal can improve the mood and motivation of those currently using your office space.
Still Need Convincing About Office Fit Outs Versus Relocations?
There will always be pros and cons to any large scale office project – the priority for your business should always be to keep the latter to a minimum. Be sure to consider how best to conserve and make the best of resources – not just financial and inventory but also your people.
To ask any questions or discuss your requirements with a member of our experienced team, please get in touch.
