For start-up owners, one of the last things you want to get bogged down on is furnishing your office. With a myriad of things to think about, most business owners simply want a functional office space, with practical furnishings that don’t break the bank.
However, creating an office space that both engages employees and impresses clients on a tight budget isn’t always straightforward. Here are seven clever tricks to furnish your office and create a practical and cool looking space on the cheap.
Rent Furniture
Office furniture on rent is a popular alternative to purchasing expensive new furniture. Start-up owners are increasingly turning to rented furniture for several reasons. Firstly, it is inexpensive. Rented chairs and desks are far cheaper than buying your own. Also, for businesses that are looking to expand quickly and may not be in the space for long, rented furniture is ideal because you don’t have to pay for removal costs.
Rental solutions can also help make your office space more comfortable. It is possible to pick up an AC on rent just for the warmer months. That way, you aren’t footing an expensive bill only to have the system sit idle when the weather cools.
Buy Second-Hand
A quirky, vintage piece can always lift an office space, particularly for clients. Pick up second-hand furniture pieces by trawling the classified ads. You will likely have to pay for transportation yourself but will save yourself some cash by not buying from an antique store.
Use Table Lamps for Lighting
Not only is overhead fluorescent lighting expensive, it is also unattractive and draining. Instead, light the office with more compact lighting solutions to create a warmer, more inviting workspace at a fraction of the price.
Invest in a Coffee Machine
Yes, you need it. It may be an extra expense, but it is worth it in what it provides your company in the form of increased productivity and employee satisfaction.
Chalk Board Paint
Covering a small wall in chalkboard paint and leaving chalk around is a fun, cheap alternative to a whiteboard and pens. It creates a striking look and provides a creative outlet for your employees, who can use the space to draw and write notes. Alternatively, it can be used for displaying important notices to the office. The black makes a nice break with the traditional corporate whiteboard and makes an office feel less formal.
Ditch the Art in Favor of Photography
Every office needs some design to break up the monochrome of a wall. But instead of investing in expensive office art, download a digital photo and have it printed and framed. Add your own custom effects for a more intricate design. Some office favorites are a close up of a flower or a leaf.
Keep it Clean
The best way to save money on office furniture is by increasing the longevity of the furniture you have. Keeping the office clean and tidy and looking after the items in your office will help them last longer, which means forking out on furniture replacements less often. Look after the furniture, and the furniture will look after your pocket.