How to create a project brief

Next, consider your ideal office layout. Do you envision an open plan environment that fosters collaboration and teamwork, or do you require more private offices and quiet spaces for focused work? Perhaps you need a combination of both.

Think about the different types of spaces you need to support the various activities that take place in your office. This could include:

• Individual workstations
• Meeting rooms of various sizes
• Phone booths or small pods for private calls
• Breakout areas for informal gatherings
• Quiet zones for heads-down work
• Collaborative spaces with flexible furniture and technology
• Spaces to eat, drink and socialise
• Well being spaces, gyms and reflection spaces

Consider your company culture and work style preferences. Do you value transparency and open communication, or do you require more privacy and hierarchy? Your office layout should reflect and support your organisational values and goals.

Every business has unique requirements that need to be accommodated in their office design. This could include things like:

• Laboratories or workshops for research and development
• Photography or video studios
• Kitchen facilities for food and beverages
• Showrooms or product display areas
• Training rooms or lecture halls
• Libraries or resource centres
• Wellness rooms or fitness facilities

Be sure to detail any specific equipment, ventilation, lighting, or storage needs for these specialised spaces. Your design team will need to factor these requirements into their plans and ensure that they meet all relevant codes and regulations.

The pandemic changed the way most organisations work and the outlook that staff have of the office. In most cases, companies have adopted some form of agile or hybrid working. Other organisations are desperately trying to attract staff back to promote social bonds and improve collaboration and peer support.

Use your new office to promote how you wish to engage with the staff positively to ensure the best outcomes for your company.

Your office design should prioritise the health, comfort, and well-being of your employees. Consider amenities and features that will enhance their experience and support their productivity, such as:

• Natural light and views
• Comfortable and ergonomic furniture
• Adequate ventilation and temperature control
• Office acoustics to minimise noise and distractions
• Breakout areas for relaxation and socialisation
• Showers and changing facilities for bike commuters or lunchtime workouts
• Kitchenettes or cafes with healthy food options

Think about how your office design can promote a positive company culture and foster a sense of community among your staff.

Finally, your project brief should outline your budget and timeline constraints. Be realistic about what you can afford and how long you can tolerate disruption to your business operations. Consider factors like:

• Hard costs (construction, materials, furniture)
• Soft costs (design fees, permits, moving expenses)
• Contingency funds for unexpected issues or changes
• Phasing or staging of work to minimise downtime
• Lease expiration dates or other time-sensitive milestones
• Planning the refurbishment at a time when your business is less busy

Be transparent with your design and construction partners about your budget and schedule limitations. They can help you prioritise your needs and make strategic decisions to maximise value and minimise risk.