Design Tips

If you are designing an office, the first question to determine is the objective of the office. Are you creating an executive suite or a busy transaction area with couriers coming and going? Or do you need to facilitate workgroups with networked computers, shared printer resources, and impromptu meeting spaces?

Once you list all of the requirements for the space, you can then begin to juggle "what is possible" against "what is affordable". It is important to set a budget that will help you accomplish your objectives with the space while keeping in mind that there are ways to save money throughout the design and implementation process.

Remember to take into account the overall standard of the surrounding office. Heartwood offers a wide range of office furniture "Series", designed to accommodate the simplest office space, sophisticated multi-user work stations or high end executive furnishings.

Next be sure to consider the durability of the furniture you are planning to purchase. The least expensive option may only give you a year or two of service, not providing the longevity you would like. Does the manufacturer have a replacement warranty if the unit does not live up to expectations? What is the overall quality of their furniture? Good quality office furniture should retain an "as new" appearance for years after purchase.

Also, if there is a chance you might need additional pieces to go with your purchase today, make sure the manufacturer can supply items such as hutches or storage cabinets that will "match" the design you have. If you buy furniture which is "end of the line" or an obsolete style, then it will be very difficult to add-on when your office expands.

Once you have found furniture you are happy with, it’s time to look at colours, textures, styles, and options. When you are shopping for a desk or suite, bring colour and carpet samples from the office so you can match exact shades and colour schemes. Remember that no furniture ever looks exactly as depicted in the colour brochure, so it’s important to look at actual samples of the surface materials available. Many manufacturers have samples of their finishes and surface selections available to their office furniture retailers.

Also, don’t be afraid to play with colour schemes that may not be represented in the brochure or on the showroom floor. Manufacturers generally have many colours available and should be able to mix and match these to suit your needs. You are investing in the design of your office for years to come, so you should take the time to get a "look" that you will be happy with!

It’s also important to ask if "customizing" is available. Your space constraints may dictate a slightly smaller or larger component to fit your particular space. Some manufacturers will not deviate from their "standard" product offerings. Others offer customization, but at a significant premium of cost and delivery time. Talk to your dealer about what’s possible when considering "customization."