Jordan McDowell
When it comes to the success of your business, how your building looks can have a huge impact. Customers will return to a company that provides a pleasant experience while they shop, wait for service, or use the facilities. Similarly, employees who feel inspired and comfortable are more likely to work effectively and enjoy their jobs. But how can you improve your building when a full renovation isn’t in the budget? Here are ten ideas that don’t involve knocking down walls.
It seems so easy, but it makes a tremendous difference. One of the most practical things you can do to improve your business space is to hire a commercial cleaning service. Everything from pressure washing the sidewalks to giving the windows a streak-free shine will transform the first impression of your building without a major construction project. Plus, your customers and employees will thank you for providing them with a clean and safe environment.
If you have ever spent time in a dark office with weak, buzzing fluorescent lights, you know the difference that lighting makes to your surroundings. Capitalize on the natural light in your building and choose a variety of light fixtures for different tasks. Make a statement with chandeliers and pendant lights, and reflect your brand’s mood through the temperature of your bulbs. Simply replacing the bulbs in an existing fixture can powerfully affect a room for only a few dollars.
When you don’t have the bandwidth (or budget) to tear down walls or rip up flooring, investing in some new furniture or reconfiguring the pieces you have can help a space feel refreshed. Experimenting with different cubicle arrangements is a great way to make an office feel more open and to facilitate better communication between employees. New furniture can be “new to you.” Check resale shops for interesting tables or lamps to add some character and charm to your office.
Nothing says new and improved like a fresh coat of paint—and it’s one of the most cost-efficient ways to transform a space. Experimenting with colors can also infuse a business environment with the energy you want visitors and employees to feel while in your building. This is an effective marketing strategy used by all the biggest brands when designing their logos and retail spaces.
Another relatively inexpensive way to alter the mood in your building is to add live plants. There are countless varieties to choose from with different shapes, sizes, and colors lending visual interest. But the benefits of plants don’t end at their aesthetics. Not only are they natural air purifiers, but many studies have pointed out their positive impact on people’s sense of well-being. Research clearly shows that employees who work in plant-filled spaces have higher rates of job satisfaction.
Everyone has experienced the oppressive feeling of sitting in a bland waiting room with blank walls. To ensure that the spaces in your business are welcoming and inspiring, consider hanging relevant photos, and decorations. You could even get your employees involved and give them a fun opportunity to contribute custom paintings that brighten the whole building.
Another way to improve your building is to add window treatments. While lots of natural light is desirable for an airy, uplifting space, it can also cause glare and increased temperatures. Consider installing retractable screens or attractive awnings to adjust the amount of light coming into your windows. Bonus points for saving money on your utilities!
As one of the first introductions clients have to your business, signage communicates what service or product your company offers and the values it represents. Make sure that any signage you use is attractive, easy to see, and up to date. Consider using a custom neon sign to catch potential customers’ eyes, add decoration to interior spaces, or express your brand’s personality. It’s a guaranteed wow factor at a reasonable price.
Think outside the box and look for additional ways to advertise outside the walls of your building. Think sidewalk signs with current promotions, a sharp and attractive paint job or mural, beautiful window displays that encourage people to pause, and advertising flags that catch the eye as they move in the wind.
Speaking of exteriors, giving your building good curb appeal goes a long way to improve people’s perception of your business. Maintaining parking areas and installing attractive landscaping are fantastic ways to create a positive impact and draw customers inside. If you don’t have the budget or ability to add traditional landscaping, even a couple of thoughtfully curated flower boxes can help brighten your storefront.
