Table of Contents
Introduction
In recent years, trendy workplaces have gained much popularity thus, replacing the traditional office slowly but surely. However, these elements can only go so far in terms of creating functional workplaces and not just swanky ones. The key is to figure out how to make an old office look modern in order to achieve the ideal balance of classic appeal and modern feel without compromising functionality.
There are a few ways you can easily blend old and new, traditional and contemporary. In this article, we will discuss how to bridge the gap between your outdated workplace and what today’s office workers want.
1. Fixtures
A little can go a long way and in regards to fixtures in the workplace lighting and exposed ductwork are prime candidates for updates in a modernizing office. Replace fluorescent bulbs with softer LEDs, and replace outdated fixtures with modern, minimalist accents that complement the space. If you have to leave the HVAC ducting exposed, another solution would be to powder coat it to add a decorative touch.
2. Tech
Updated technology is another fast way to modernize the office. New televisions and mounted video screens can make a considerable difference in a space. Similarly, laptops and tablet charging docks can contribute to a more fluid and functional space. On a wider scale, visual maps and traffic management systems known as digital wayfinding is both practical and appealing.
3. Greenery
Biophilic design is another workplace trend on the rise. Adding live greenery throughout the workplace is not only an excellent way to connect an older workplace environment with modern design themes, but it is also a great way to improve and balance mood and purify the air. Including a good amount of floor, table, and hanging plants in the office will significantly upgrade the space.
4. Artwork
Art is an important part of any well-designed space whether it be personal or professional. It is important that you land on a specific theme to stick to whether it’s eclectic, surreal, modern, industrial, or classical art. Once you’ve decided on the genre, disperse the artwork throughout the office to counteract the stark white walls of the office of yesterday.
5. Layout
Redesigning the layout of the workplace can be on the more expensive side once you start knocking down walls. That being said, there are ways to optimize your current square footage and modernize the look of the workplace without major demolition by trying different layouts. You can use software like SketchUP or SmartDraw to test out different scenarios and try to maximize the flow of the space.
6. Theme
Just as you did with selecting the type of artwork to include, you should decide on an overall office design theme. For example, if you choose to go with a minimalist design you should choose furniture with clean lines and include industrial accents that match the style. Alternatively, if your space is more boho-chic, you will want to go for colourful accents and textures.
Whatever style you settle on, be mindful of not overdoing it. Less is more, and going overboard with your design could leave you with a space that feels cluttered and inefficient.
7. Design accents
Things like texture and colours are crucial elements of interior design. Following the theme selected, include a variety of textures such as exposed brick or offset exposed steel to spruce up the feel of the space. Additionally, think about the colours you want to include in your workplace, consulting colour psychology charts can be tremendously helpful in selecting a colour palette for your design.
8. Windows
Window treatments are an excellent design feature in and of themselves. They’re also thought to add a modern touch. Install blinds or cellular shades to give your office a more modern appearance.
Window treatments are a great design element in their own right. They’re also seen as a modern touch. Install blinds or cellular shades to add a nice contemporary look to your workplace. As part of a full facility makeover, window treatments have the transformative ability to turn the clock forward.
9. Comfort
Old-fashioned workplaces don’t exactly have a reputation for being comfortable. Focusing on comfort in the workplace specifically reverses that stigma. Invest in comfortable furnishings, ergonomic desks, and casual spaces where staff may unwind. The addition of comfort provides a modern touch that few individual design elements can achieve by themselves.
10. Cleanliness
Regardless of the improvements you make, keep your workplace clean at all times. Workplaces that are disorganized or cluttered rapidly lose their appeal, which can lower morale. Older features in your space may amplify the clutter, resulting in a dingy overall sensation. Keep in mind that “clean” is a synonym for “contemporary.”
Conclusion
Short of taking a wrecking ball to your office, there are a few things that you can do to move your outdated workplace into the current era. Concentrate on the design elements over which you have influence. Keep the aforementioned pointers in mind as you work to make an old office look modern.
