Branding your Workplace on a Budget
In this week’s blog, we want to feature some great ideas about “Branding” your Workspace. Jennifer Defreest is the Cresa VP of Marketing and Operations for our Boston office. Jennifer is an expert on looking at work environments and has written several articles about the best way to manage workspaces. In her most recent article published on February 18th, 2021, she explores ideas on assessing your new possible office space, how to solidify your company story via your office design to cultivate the right atmosphere, and how to accessorize the office space to fit your company culture.
At Cresa, we have the right experts to work with you to find
the ideal office space in the sub-lease market.
Let’s talk if you think I can help your business by visiting my website.
How to Brand Your Workplace on a
Budget
February 18th,
2021
Amid a booming sublease market, organizations are putting
significant thought into whether a new space is their best bet in the
short-term as they determine their long-term space needs. While moving into a
new space such as a sublease can feel somewhat overwhelming, it can also be an
incredible opportunity to leave your mark and create a vibrant, thriving
workplace even when on a budget. Here are some tips on how to embrace a new
space and create an environment that reflects your organization in the best
light.
The Space Case
Whether you’re moving into a short-term sublease
situation or settling in somewhere for good, the first step should be to
consider all of the elements you're working with. In addition to assessing the
space, features, and amenities that you have, you need to consider the
logistics of filling it. Will you need to furnish it yourself, or will the
furniture be included, which is often the case in many sublease situations.
You’ll want to perform a concrete analysis of the area and its features
beforehand, so you can move forward knowing exactly what you need.
Solidify your Message
An office tells a story, and you want your workspace to
reflect your brand in a positive manner. This means presenting a space that
embodies the vision of your company, from the color of the decor to the company
logo and signage on the wall. Consider what kind of atmosphere you want to
represent your organization’s message. Since signage and branding are likely
the first thing clients and employees see when they walk into your space, you
want that first impression to be a positive one. It’s a good time to consider
whether you want to continue using your current branding or see this as an
opportunity for a brand refresh. It’s always better to determine this sooner
rather than later in order to save your organization both time and money in the
long run.
Cultivate an Atmosphere
While your clients are obviously a vital component of your
business, it’s the workforce that spend their days in the office (even if they
are on a modified WFH schedule!) That’s why it’s so important that your
workplace is one that’s conducive to bringing the best out of your employees.
You want your team members to be able to thrive in a place that fosters both
community and productivity. This means furniture, equipment and amenities that
are welcoming and comfortable, while also professional. Envision the type of
reception area you want to serve as the “first look” into your company’s
universe. Is the aesthetic best represented through digital signage and AV
applications, or through vinyl wall graphics? It’s likely you’ll want to apply
other branding elements and signage in other parts of the office, like
conference rooms and workstations, so be sure to perform a full evaluation of
your options before settling on one choice.
Time to Accessorize
When it’s time to inject the company’s unique viewpoint into
the space, furniture colors and fabrics go a long way. Whether it’s panel
fabrics and seat cushions or ancillary decor, this type of furniture is easy
and inexpensive to customize, especially if your moving into a space where
furniture is included. Unique finishes speak volumes as well. Will you embrace
a colorful accent wall or untraditional wall coverings? Is hardwood flooring
suitable for a busy organization, and do you need ceiling tiles to absorb the
sound of constant conversation? Each of these components need to be taken into
consideration.
The Financials
While creating your space is an expression of your
organization, it’s often outside experts who understand the best methods to
find good deals. Don’t hesitate to consult the experts who understand the
supply chain and demand. Often, they’re the people who understand what it takes
to find the essentials you need that fit into your budget. Also, they have the
partnerships and experience to help find the best deals, which is always an
asset.
Branding your workplace can feel like a significant undertaking, but it’s one
that strongly solidifies your office’s culture. If you’re considering making a
move, it’s important to consult people who can make the transition as seamless
as possible. Cresa’s Project Management (PM) and Workplace Planning teams are
here to help your organization find the best solution and vendors to ensure
your workplace is uniquely you while still on a budget.
End of Article
If you have
significant questions about your current real estate strategy, it may be time
for a discussion. Once we have started
our conversation, we can create a strategy to look at your business
operations and current space and then craft up a plan to find something that is
a great fit in the area. With the
current vacancies and inventory, we will work with you to get the best
deal. We represent tenants ONLY,
so you can feel comfortable that we are working for your business 100%. If we can help you by being your tenant
broker in the DC, Maryland, or Northern Virginia area, visit my website or call me at
301-841-6542. Make sure to follow all my
social efforts by clicking on the links below.
I specialize in providing comprehensive real estate services,
exclusively representing corporate tenants on all commercial real estate needs.
Commercial Tenant Broker
2 Bethesda Metro Center, Suite 900
Bethesda, MD 20814
301-842-6542
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