Somewhere between “crazy” and “conformist” exists the perfect office environment.

This spectrum shows there’s quite a range for office styles, and a lot depends on how you want your employees and your customers/clients to feel.

Office styles have evolved in the last few decades, when there used to be nothing but cubicles, and a time when few motivational posters or banners constituted fine art.

Companies like Google have gone to the other extreme by getting rid of ‘cube farms’ altogether, opting for things like communal work spaces, couches and many windows. While this set-up might not work for every office environment, it does indicate that how a workplace is arranged can have a positive or negative impact on morale, even productivity.

If you’re willing to seek easy ways to make improvements, start by focusing on your surroundings.

Get employees involved

You can still bring in a professional designer or office vendor, but you can also request supplemental ideas from  staff about the kind of atmosphere and furnishings they want and need. This could include practical things like creating  a secure area for private personal effects, or it could be fun touches. This will help the staff feel like they contribute and provide ownership.

Consider artwork

Fine art can be subjective, especially modern styles. Art can also be personal so what you like someone may dislike even without knowing a reason. Some companies minimize this with the most neutral, un-offensive pieces which don’t please anyone. Or you can consider exhibiting employee art or rotating artwork from a local museum or library.

Functional but decorative

Office furniture can look good while serving a purpose – namely something that’s comfortable, stylish and designed to help minimize pain and discomfort  in your back and other body parts.

Seek natural lighting. Even if you can’t get outside to fully enjoy the day regularly, there are a variety of ways to soak up sunlight, from windows to skylights. This is healthier in function and appearance than fluorescent lights.

If your business is considering financing to improve the office environment, contact JNI Commercial Lending.