If you’ve ever remodeled your home, you know that it can be a stressful time.
Upgrading your office can be just as stressful, but there are ways to make it easier. Here are a few tips for a successful office renovation.
Go in with a plan
Before you start work, make sure you’ve figured out what style you want to embrace. Something modern? Something that adheres to the building’s original look?
Without a clear vision for your style, it will be harder to make decisions as the work progresses. You may even have to undo work you’ve completed as your plan comes together.
Keep in mind that if you’re renovating a historic building, your project can be a blessing and a curse. On one hand, your community might have very strict guidelines for preserving the building’s historic character. But you may also be eligible for grants and other funding to help you preserve that character.
Be patient, and plan for the worst
Your renovation may take longer than expected. You may want to consider renting a container building or some other sort of office space to use during the work.
And a good rule of thumb to follow is to have a budget that’s 10 percent larger than what you think you might need, to cover any unforeseen costs. You never know. There might be emergencies, especially when dealing with older buildings.
Work with what’s there
In some cases, there might be quirks in your building’s design that you can make work for you, rather than just ripping it out.
Features like exposed brick and ductwork can become the focal point of your space, rather than something you need to cover up. Something that seems like an eyesore can actually become the conversation piece you show off when clients visit your office.
Don’t throw it away when you can sell it
Your dumpsters will be busy during your renovation, but don’t forget that you can sell some of the things you’re getting rid of. Old appliances, fixtures and tile have their market, and it might be a good idea to check with your local scrap dealer about your older copper pipes or any metal that you’re getting rid of. By selling off unwanted materials, you can help make back some of the cost of the renovations.
Choose wisely
Recognize that you may not be able to remodel everything. Your budget may call for you to be thriftier. For example, consider putting up a fresh coat of paint rather than a larger redesign, or hire a talented student artist – rather than a high priced professional – to paint a mural.
Learn from others
You aren’t the first person to remodel an office and you won’t be the last. Go online and see what others have done to help get ideas and avoid their mistakes.
If you’re ready to revamp your workspace, Souder Brothers Construction can help.
We have a wide range of experience in commercial construction, whether it’s a renovation, an office fit-out or a new addition.
Our finished projects include drywall installation, custom desks, cubicles and partitions, light fixtures and more. Contact us today and we can get to work on giving your office a new look.