3 Things to Think About Before Designing Your Next Workspace

If you’re planning a new workspace or refreshing the one you already have, it’s tempting to dive straight into layouts, mood boards and materials.

But the best workspaces are the ones that aim to improve culture, productivity and day-to-day flow and this starts long before the design stage even begins!

Here’s a look at the 3 things every business should think about before designing their next workspace... 

1. Understand how your team actually works

Every team works differently and your workspace should reflect your team's behaviours, not just assumptions.

Do people hot desk or naturally gravitate to the same spots? Is hybrid working part of your culture? Do you need more meeting rooms, informal breakout areas or quiet corners for focus?

At Sweaty Betty HQ for example, this was one of the most important considerations. Their team needed a space that encouraged movement, creativity and collaboration, so the design centred around flexible zones, open planning and spaces that could shift with the team.

2. Design around the needs of your business 

Every company has different priorities. Some want a café-style social hub to bring teams together, while others need better tech integration or smarter storage solutions. 

Take Still Moving and Wolverine Worldwide, two very different requirements shaped by the work they do. Wolverine needed client-ready showrooms and cafe style social areas, while Still Moving required soundproof editing booths and open collaborative working zones. 

When your space aligns with your culture and business goals, it stops being “just an office” and becomes a tool that helps the whole team thrive!

3. Don't skip the consultation phase 

The consultation and site survey stage is where we get to know the space, uncover insights you won’t find on a floorplan and make sure the design is right before a single line is drawn. 

It’s also the moment to find the right partner. An agency who will understand your needs, guide you through the process and make your life easier, not harder. 

A thoughtful consultation phase prevents costly reworks, ensures the design is right the first time and sets the foundation for a workspace that genuinely works for the people inside it.

Final Thoughts

Designing a workspace isn’t about choosing furniture or finishes it’s about creating an environment where culture, creativity and productivity thrive together.

If you’re planning a new space, let’s chat. We design pop-ups, workspaces and brand destinations that spark interaction, strengthen culture and deliver real commercial impact.