Office Makeover Tips: 5 Ways To Improve Your Interiors In 2018

Creating cool and up to date office interiors doesn't have to be a hassle. You just have to obtain a little product knowledge and research the latest trends. That's where we come in! In this edition of 'Office Makeover Tips' we'll provide you with 5 ways to improve comfort and corporate appeal in the new year. From articulating office chairs to light wood furniture finishes, the tips and suggestions provided today are sure to help you design impressive work environments.

1.) Articulating Chairs

First things first, you've gotta strive for a combination of comfort and appeal. Articulating office chairs are the perfect way to do just that. Essentially, articulating office chairs minimize the ergonomic learning curve by reducing the need for constant adjusting. A chair like the Arti from Global will automatically respond to your body movements to ensure a healthy sit. While a few basic adjustments will still be required, "smart chairs" like the arti will help you reach the cutting edge of comfort. As an added bonus, these modern ergonomic seating solutions also look incredible!

2.) Universal Power Modules

Purchasing powered office furniture is great. That said, it can be really expensive. If you're looking to improve collaboration and streamline productivity on a budget, universal power modules are the way to go. Popular options like the FlexCharge9 from ESI are available for well below $200.00. The benefits of having surface level USB and AC inputs during conference and training room sessions should not be overlooked in 2018.

3.) Sit To Stand Attachments

Are you still spending all day working in an office chair? It's time for a change! Integrate a sit to stand computer workstation into your space in 2018 to improve posture and reduce fatigue. As we sit for long periods of time, even good posture habits start to suffer. A few minutes of stand-up operating every hour will go a long way towards boosting productivity levels throughout task filled work days.

4.) Lively Accents

Accents go a long way in the quest for improved office interiors. Simply opening up your blinds and letting in some natural light will make your space feel more alive. In addition, you might consider kicking those faux plants to the curb. Exchange them out for something real. A succulent arrangement can be create for less than $20.00. They require very little maintenance and they'll make for a more relaxing and visually appealing interior. The ways to improve office interiors with plant life are truly endless. Social sharing sites like Pinterest and Instagram will help you get creative.

5.) Light Wood Finishes

In 2017 gray and white office furniture finishes were the latest craze. In the new year, light tones will be taking over. Take a look at the all new Autumn Walnut finish available on the components from the Superior Laminate Series by Offices To Go and you'll see what we mean. Light finish options like Autumn Walnut will help you create interiors that blend the best of modern and traditional vibes. If you're looking to avoid the overly modern trends without going totally old school, light finishes will help. With light wood tones you'll be able to create open, visually appealing, and well rounded interiors that positively impact your valued visitors.

Office Makeover Tips: Keep It Simple!

We fully understand your desire to create an impactful office interior. That being said, there's nothing wrong with keeping things simple. Those who over-do-it throughout the makeover process typically wind up with a case of office remodeling remorse. Alternatively, those who stick to well rounded furniture and seating are often rewarded with clean, classy, and tasteful interiors that are ready to make a lasting impression on valued visitors.

When you're ready to give your interiors a facelift, start with effective space planning. Run a tape measurer around the perimeter of your workspace and write down your measurements. If you can, make a simple sketch of your space on paper and make a few copies. This will allow you to draw in layout ideas.

While measuring your office interior, be sure to take note of all entry ways, windows, power outlets, and room obstructions that will affect the way your furniture is positioned. This space planning step doesn't need to be complicated. Just take your time and double check your measurements.

Don't stress yourself out trying to find old blue prints or trying to draw your space out on paper perfectly. In the long run, you just need accurate dimensions you can rely on.

Once you've got your space properly measured and plotted out, get a little design inspiration. Trust us, a little goes a long way! You don't want too many office remodeling ideas bouncing around in your head. This will make for a confusing makeover that lacks direction.

To stay on track, visit a professional office furniture showroom in your area. You'll be rewarded with helpful tips and product suggestions to keep your makeover simplified. 

With a few furniture finish samples and a little project literature, head out from the showroom and visit a paint store. Here you'll want to grab a few more samples to take back to your office.

Once you've settled on a furniture finish and paint combination, go ahead and paint your interior. It's best to do it now before new furniture arrives. Those who overcomplicate things and try to paint around installed furniture are susceptible to unwanted spills that can derail and project.

Now it's time to order your furniture. You can shop for affordable office furniture and seating while simultaneously finding reliable product reviews by using a comparison shopping engine like Google Shopping. This will expedite the purchasing process and keep things simple.

Before you checkout online with a cart full of new office desks and chairs for your space, contact your dealer of choice directly. Be sure to inquire about any current specials they may be running and about expected product lead times. If a product is out of stock, you'll want to know now before making a purchase and wasting your valuable time.

Once your furniture is purchased, wait about 2 days and contact your dealer again. Inquire about ship times and tracking information to give you a prep window. Having furniture arrive unannounced when you're unprepared is complicated to say the least. Obtain all the information you can to keep things simple and on track.

The day before your new furniture arrives, ensure your space is properly cleared and cleaned. If you can, create a staging area outside of your interior to avoid taking all of your new office components into your interior at once. This makes for an overcrowded assembly process. Brining pieces in one at a time for assembly is far more simple and efficient.

To wrap things up, we'll give you a quick hit list of tips and tricks that encourage a simple office makeover.

1. Always get your own dimensions and double check them for accuracy.
2. A little design inspiration goes a long way.
3. Stick to a single design theme to stay on track.
4. Select office furniture from a full service collection. 
5. Avoid mix-matching components from different brands.
6. Paint and prep your interior before new furniture arrives.
7. Create staging area to avoid an overcrowded build-out.

How To Have Fun With Your Office Remodel

Office remodeling projects can be stressful and tiring, but they don't have to be. We're here to tell you, they can be quite enjoyable and even fun. Today on the OfficeAnything.com blog we'll teach you how to get the most out of your interior without the headaches. From group showroom visits to hosting a big reveal, we'll have you loving each step of the process.

First things first, you need to assemble a team that you enjoy working with. Don't choose more than 3 remodeling assistants because if you do, the input and opinions can become a bit overwhelming. A team of 4 trusted individuals including yourself is perfect.

Now that you're working with people you like, you can sit down and create a plan. A well thought out plan of attack and timeline will help keep your project on track and within budget. Formulating a plan at the beginning of the remodel will most certainly reduce the risk of error and make your project much more enjoyable as each step comes together.

Once you've got a plan, it's time to have a little fun. Get your remodeling team together for an inspiration quest! Visit a local showroom one afternoon with your crew. You'll be rewarded with an abundance of cool ideas on how to make your space efficient, unique, and fashionable. The professionals at the showroom will be happy to tell you about the latest trends from open concept benching systems to self adjusting office chairs the minimize the ergonomic learning curve.

Pro Tip:

If you don't have a showroom in your area, take your search to the web. Check out social sharing sites like Pinterest and Instagram. They're great for inspiration!

With all the inspiration needed to rock your remodel, you and your team are officially ready to shop. Creating a coupon contest will make the process much more fun. Offer up a $20 gift card to the team member that finds the best deal on the office furniture and seating needed to complete your project. Make bulk discounts, free shipping specials, closeout items eligible to win the prize!

Part of having fun during the office remodeling process means not falling victim to the obstacles businesses face that cause headaches due to a lack of shipment scheduling. Once you've purchased your new products, contact the dealer directly. Inquire about estimated ship times and tracking information to ensure you project stays on track.

The week your furniture arrives is the perfect time to prep. To make the process more enjoyable, throw a painting party. Get your crew together and remove all the old furniture in your space. Take pics before if disassembling anything if you're planning to sell it to recapture some of the budget.

Once the furniture is removed, order a few pizzas and start painting while you're waiting for them to arrive. This will allow you to take a break half way through to break up the process. Team painting can definitely be fun! We recommend doing it after normal business hours to eliminate the stress and distractions caused during the typical work day.

When your furniture arrives, create a staging area outside of the office your remodeling. Avoid taking all the boxes into your space at once. It will make for a cramped assembly process that isn't fun at all.

Alternatively, bring in boxes one at a time. Opening them will feel like Christmas morning. You and your team will be excited to check out the ergonomic chairs and desks you've purchased. It's a lot of fun!

Pro Tip:

Make sure to fully assemble each individual desk and chair as you open it, then dispose of the boxes before brining in additional items. They'll build up on you quick, so stay on top of it. Furniture is always well packed and there will be lots of bubble wrap and fodder that requires disposal.

With your space complete, it's time to show off your work with a big reveal. Make sure your interior is fully prepped and ready to be displayed to the rest of the office. Throw a little gathering with some drinks and snacks. Just be ready to receive lot's of compliments on what a great job you guys have done. Then be sure to tell them how much fun the process was so they'll want to do the next one! Then take a few pics of your space to share on social media. Rest assured, there's others out there looking for awesome design inspiration.

Office Design Advice: 8 Tips For A Smooth Transition Into Your New Space

Tackling an office remodeling project can be super fun, or super frustrating! Those who properly prepare and plan enjoy the spoils of their hard work. That being said, those who don't are commonly left with remodeling remorse that could have been easily avoided. Here at OfficeAnything.com, we want you to love your new workspace. That's why we're providing you with 8 tips to help you seamlessly transition into your interior without the uh-oh's.

1.) Use Accurate Measurements

It all starts with accurate measurements. Rest assured, there's nothing worse that having all new furniture arrive on your door step only to find that it doesn't fit properly. Ouch! Avoid this common makeover mishap by personally checking the dimensions of your space. Don't rely on old blue prints. Bust out the tape measurer and get the job done right. As this step is incredibly important, you may want to have a trusted coworkers double check your dimensions before making a purchase. You simply can't be too careful during the space planning stage.

2.) Take Pics Before Disassembly

Before you start breaking down your existing furniture to make room for the new stuff, take a few pics. They'll come in especially helpful if you're planning to sell your old office furniture to recapture some of the remodeling budget. Pictures will also help you remember how your old layout went together. If for nothing more, take pics to show a successful "before and after" of your project.

3.) Paint Before Furniture Arrives

You don't want to be painting around a beautiful office desk you just spent a fortune on. It's super risky! Once you've removed your old furniture, give your interior a thorough cleaning. Patch any thumb tack holes and use a magic eraser to get rid of unsightly scuffs. Next, visit your local paint store to pick up a few swatches and samples. Don't just assume a color will look good without first checking it out on your walls. Once you've decided on a color, go ahead and paint before your furniture arrives. It will make for a much smoother transition.

4.) Enlist A Few Helpers

It never hurts to have a little help during an office makeover. If you're planning to tackle installation internally, you certainly won't want to do it alone. To ensure a seamless transition, ask 3 people to help you throughout the process. It's no secret that office components can be very heavy. Trying to tackle assembly alone can be dangerous to say the least.

5.) Schedule Delivery

Don't get caught with new furniture arriving when you're not prepared! Before you purchase the workstations and ergonomic seating needed to outfit your interiors, contact your dealer directly to obtain estimated ship times. After your purchase, contact your dealer again for tracking information as soon as possible. They should provide it, but it's better to call personally to be on the safe side. You'll be far better suited for a smooth transition if you know when your products are scheduled to arrive!

6.) Create A Staging Area

The day before your products are scheduled to arrive, it will help to create a staging area. You don't want to overcrowd your interior by carrying in every box and component. It will make for a frustrating and complicated assembly process. With a staging area, you'll be able to bring in items one at a time, piece by piece. This makes creating a functional layout much easier.

7.) Prepare For Debris

Even a basic computer chair will come extremely well packed to avoid damage during transit. This means, there's going to be a lot of debris to dispose of at the end of your project. All of your desks, chairs, and accessories will come boxed and packaged with a ton bubble wrap and popcorn. Prepare accordingly! Break down boxes to save space and have trash bags on hand to minimize the mess.

8.) Price A Professional Installer

Even if you're planning to handle the assembly process yourself, it's never a bad idea to at least know how much the pros would charge to tackle your project. If you get rolling on your project and find that it's more than you can handle, you'll already be a step ahead if you need to call in some backup. In truth, most find professional furniture installation to be pretty affordable. When sourcing installers for your project, be sure to read reviews first to ensure quality. Make sure they'll be available around the same time your furniture is scheduled to arrive incase you run into problems. If you really want to transition smoothly into your space without a headache, you can choose to go with an installer from the start. They'll be happy to receive your desks and chairs to minimize the need for planning and scheduling on your end.

Office Makeover Tips: Clean, Purge, Enhance!

Are you tackling an office makeover project in 2017? You're in the right place. Today on the blog we'll share a simple to follow 3 step process for remodeling success. By cleaning, purging, and enhancing your interior you'll be on your way to a well rounded workspace that's ready to meet the demands of the modern work day. Enjoy!

Cleaning:

Before you rush out to purchase new office furniture and accessories, start your makeover with a good cleaning. Knock out the basic is like vacuuming and dusting right out of the gate. Next you'll want to move on to more advanced office cleaning and organizing strategies like proper wire routing. It's not difficult, just a little time consuming. When completed you'll be operating at a much higher and more efficient level. Once your interior has been properly cleaned, take pictures for a before and after comparison at the completion of your project.


Purging:

Purging and cleaning are a part of the same family. That being said, there are some distinct differences. Purging involves the removal of old items to free up usable space. You can't fully assess your personal office needs until you've properly purged your interior of unwanted documents.

Start the process by purging your office file cabinet drawers. You'll be surprised how many out dated folders you've been harboring. Reorganize your drawers properly after purging to see how much available space you have for future growth.

Next you'll want to purge your digital files. Do you have old and outdated quotations stored on your computer? What about notes on projects from years gone buy? That stuff needs to be eliminated from your hard drive. If you want to save the information, download it to a zip drive, label it, and store it properly for future use.

Last but not least, you'll want to purge any office storage cabinet drawers currently devoted to stationary. There's likely loose rubber bands and post it notes that can be tossed out, along with old prevention materials and outdated product binders. Most find that once there office interior has been properly purged, their personal makeover needs decrease. This helps maximize the budget!

Enhancing:

Enhancing your office is fun! That being said, many are left feeling a bit overwhelmed by the available product selection. In truth, it's a bit difficult to know what products you'll actually use regularly to become more productive. To help, we've broken down the process into two main categories.

1.) Appeal - Enhancing office appeal means integrating new products that showcase your individual personality and style. With an appealing workspace that's up to date with the latest trends, you'll make a lasting impression on valued visitors and earn your interior the compliments that it deserves.

This year, gray office furniture has been super popular. It's definitely worth considering for your project. In addition, you can't go wrong with updated wall art. It's time to kick those old school motivational posters to the curb. You might also consider integrating a few potted plants and succulents to make your interior feel more vibrant. When it comes to enhancing appeal, the options are truly endless. Don't be afraid to try out a few cool DIY projects to bring your vision to life!

2.) Comfort - A comfortable workspace is an absolute must. While you won't need every ergonomic accessory on the market, a few are considered by professionals to be essential. The first is an articulating keyboard tray. It will help you compute at healthy angles while increasing usable desk surface space. The second is a dual screen monitor arm. It will cut down on the time spent flipping between tables while simultaneously helping you raise your computer screens to eye level to reduce visual strain and neck pain.

You might also consider adding a sit to stand desk top riser to promote continuous movement in the workplace and eliminate the need for unhealthy extended sits. If you can't find the time to take a 10 minute break once every hour, a sit to stand desktop attachment is the way to go. They're rapidly becoming an industry standard.

Last but not least, there's no substitute for a great office chair. We highly recommend considering today's innovative chairs from brands like Global Total Office and RFM Preferred Seating with auto responding adjustment features that minimize the ergonomic learning curve. When selecting an office chair, there's no substitute for a good sit test. Visit a showroom in your area to check out a variety of models that might be right for you. If you don't have a showroom to test chairs in person, you'll definitely want to check out online reviews and demo videos.

6 Ways Maximize Your Office Furniture Budget In 2017

There's lot's of awesome ways to save big on new office furniture in 2017. From finding coupons to avoiding hefty shipping costs, we're here to help you maximize the budget. Today on the blog we'll highlight the shopping tips, tricks, and products suggestions needed to help you create a designer workspace without breaking the bank. Enjoy!

1.) Get To Know Your Furniture Provider

First things first, you've got to take the time to get to know your dealer of choice. Before making a purchase of any kind, call your preferred furniture provider direct. While testing their customer service skills, you'll also be able to inquire about any current specials, deals, and closeouts they may be offering.

2.) Sign Up For News Letters

Just about any reputable office furniture provider will send out a monthly news letter. They'll likely be highlighting and showcasing cool new products that will help set your interiors apart from the competition. In addition, they often include active monthly promotions to help you save.

3.) Use Comparison Shopping Engines

This little tip will save you time and money. Using a comparison shopping engine like Google Shopping will allow you to browse popular desks and chairs from a variety of top brands all in one place. You'll be able to sort products by price while simultaneously checking out reviews.

4.) Visit Coupon Sites

Before checking out online, you'll likely come across a coupon code entry field. When you see it, stop. Take your time and visit a few reputable coupon sites. We like RetailMeNot.com. They feature many of today's top furniture brands. New coupons are posted every week to help you save big.

5.) Look For Free Shipping

Don't be fooled by upfront furniture costs. During the checkout process, many dealers will try to slip in hefty shipping charges that deplete the budget. It's always a good idea to source free shipping furniture providers. Comparison engines can be a big help with this too. In truth, most of today's top furniture manufacturers like Mayline and Offices To Go don't charge drop shipping costs to dealers. That being said, they shouldn't be charging you. Extended shipping costs like basic inside delivery, should never be more than about $150.00. If you're going to need furniture brought into an elevator and upstairs, it's best to use a professional installer and not the freight company. The charges are typically pretty similar, except the freight company won't put your new furniture together.

6.) Source Quality Installers

Not all furniture installation companies are created equal. Before selecting one for your project, you should definitely check out a few online reviews. You'll definitely want to source 3 quotes to ensure you obtain the best value and quality for your investment. A professional installer should be ready, willing, and able to receive your furniture direct from the manufacturer. They'll likely arrive at your place of business with many of the items preassembled. This will save you a lot of time. And after all,  time is money! You don't want an installation crew opening large items in your lobby and leaving a mess. It's distracting to your clients, takes a ton of time to clean up, and thus increases costs. If you're considering an installer for a large remodel, make sure to do your homework. You dealer should be able to provide installation resources you can trust.

Luxury Office Interiors Made Easy

Creating a luxurious office interior doesn't have to be an overly expensive headache. You just have to know the hottest trends and top furniture collections of the year. When paired with the design advice provided here, you'll be on your way to a simplified makeover you can be proud of.

First things first, you've gotta know what's gonna fit! To obtain your perimeter dimensions, you'll need a tape measurer, scale ruler, and designer paper. When plotting out your dimensions, take note of all entry ways, wall outlets, and load bearing members that will affect your layout. Avoid using old blue prints and "guesstimations" whenever possible. Always double check your dimensions or accuracy. In truth, you can never take too much time on this essential step.

Once you're confident of your interior dimensions, it's time to get inspired. On your mission to design a luxury office interior, make the time to swing by a local showroom. You'll be rewarded with lot's of awesome ideas from the pros, as well as manufacturer literature that will help you make an educated purchasing decision.

If you don't have a showroom in your area, have no fear! Take your search for office remodeling inspiration to the web. Visit social sharing sites like Pinterest and Instagram. Finding cutting edge interiors here is a breeze. As your searching, save pics of the interiors you like to a file.

In addition to inspiration, you'll need to know the hottest office makeover trends to keep your interior up to date. We highly recommend calling interior designers and furniture dealers directly. You'll be able to inquire about the coolest trends while simultaneously testing out their customer service skills. You certainly won't want to purchase your new office furniture from a dealer that's unfamiliar with trending styles and provides little to no helpful assistance. In the mean time, we took the liberty of providing you with a list of hot trends currently booming in 2016 below...

2016's Top Office Remodeling Trends:

• Gray Wood Finishes
• Bright Green Office Chairs
• Reception Seating with Storage Compartments
• Powered Conference Tables
• Dual Screen Monitor Mounts
• Auto Responding Office Chairs
• Open Concept Desk Configurations
• Modular Training Tables
• Glass Computer Desks
• Industrial Art, Lighting Fixtures, and Room Accents

Now that you're familiar with the trends needed to kick corporate appeal into over drive, it's time to focus on selecting a furniture manufacturer and collection. If you're going upscale, you can't go wrong with brands like Mayline, Offices To Go, and Cherryman Industries. These highly respected office furniture brands specialize in the provision of luxurious office furniture that's built to last.

High End Office Furniture Manufacturers:

• Mayline
• Offices To Go
• Cherryman Industries
• Global Total Office

When selecting an office furniture collection for your luxury interior, there's a few key things you'll want to take into consideration. The first is the finish. You'll want to select a furniture layout that's available in an attractive wood grain finish like cherry, gray, mahogany, white, or espresso that's always in style. If you don't like wood, go with metal! It's ultra cool and in style. Once you've selected your finish, consider reading reviews to ensure you select top quality products that won't let you down. In the long run, you always get what you pay for. Watching demo videos online and reading reviews will provide you with invaluable shopping info.

Luxury Office Furniture Collections:

• Sterling by Mayline
• Sorrento by Mayline
• Dufferin by Global Total Office
• Zira by Global Total Office
• Ventnor by Offices To Go
• Margate by Offices To Go
• Emerald by Cherryman Industries

With furniture selected, it's time to choose a chair! When it comes to luxurious office seating solutions, nobody does it better than brands like Global Total Office and Eurotech Seating. These industry leaders specialize in the provision of ultra comfortable ergonomic chairs specifically designed to help users achieve peak performance levels in the workplace.

Top Of The Line Office Chairs:

• Concorde by Global Total Office
• Ergohuman by Eurotech Seating
• Avenger by OFM
• Verte by RFM Preferred Seating
• Curve by Cherryman Industries

When tackling your makeover project, don't forget to accessorize! The best and most luxurious environments put major emphasis on ergonomic values that contribute to improved performance. The right combination of adjustable ergonomic components will help take your work day to the next level.

Best Ergonomic Add-Ons:

• Dual Screen Monitor Mount
• Articulating Keyboard Tray
• Retractable CPU Mount
• Sit To Stand Work Tables

Last but certainly not least, to professionally complete your project you'll need a few essential storage components. A low wall cabinet, hutch unit, and file pedestal will typically do the trick. If you're purchasing your new office furniture in a set, there's a good chance it will have most of these items include. If not, be sure to ask your dealer of choice about matching pieces to match your main operating desk. Once complete, you'll be ready to enjoy your luxurious furniture collection.

5 Rules To Follow When Remodeling Your Office Interiors

Taking on an office remodeling project? You're in the right place! Here at the OfficeAnything.com blog we take pride in helping our readers create incredible work environments that are up to date with the latest trends. Today, we'll take a look at the 5 rules you'll need to follow to do just that from start to finish. Enjoy!

1.) Measure First

Always measure before shopping! There's absolutely nothing worse than assuming furniture will fit properly in your workspace, only to find that it doesn't. To avoid this common office makeover problem, obtain correct dimensions of your interior. Don't rely on old blue prints. Bust out the tape measurer and then double check for accuracy.

Space Planning Tip: When measuring your office space, always be sure to take note of entry ways, power outlets, windows, and room obstructions that will affect the way your furniture fits.

2.) Get Inspired

A little inspiration goes a long way! Before you get to involved in the design and space planning process, visit a showroom in your area. You'll be rewarded with cool finish samples, literature, and product knowledge to apply to your project. If you don't have a showroom, have now fear. You can get inspired for your office makeover project by browsing the web. Check out social sharing sites like Pinterest and Instagram. You'll find awesome ideas that can be easily imitated.

3.) Prep Effectively

It's always important to prep your space before new office furniture arrives. Start by taking pictures of your current furniture configuration if you're planning to sell it maximize your budget. Next, remove any old furniture and give your space a thorough cleaning. Patch old thumb tack holes, bust out a magic eraser to remove scuffs, and vacuum the floors. If you're planning to slap on a fresh coat of paint (always a good idea), nows the time to do it!

4.) Know The Trends

All good designers know the latest trends! Researching and applying the hottest office design trends of the year to your project will help take your interior to the next level.

2016's Top Office Design Trends:

• Gray Wood Finishes
• Smart Chairs
• Mid Century Modern Desking
• Modular Reception Seating
• Powered Lounge Furniture
• Tablet Arm Chairs
• White Leather Office Chairs
• Dual Screen Monitor Mounts
• Industrial and Retro Furniture

5.) The Difference Is In The Details

In the long run, the difference is always in the details. Any professional designer will tell you, the right combination of office add-ons will help improve corporate appeal while skyrocketing productivity. Popular ergonomic computer accessories are the perfect place to start. In addition, you'll want to add aesthetic accents like potted plants, wall art, lamps, and cool area rugs.

Space Planning Tip: Think outside the box when accessorizing your interior. Go for a personalized look with one of a kind items from your local swap meet, antique store, thrift store, or flea market. You'll be able to save big on cool second hand items while creating a unique vibe that can't be duplicated!

The Ins and Outs of Office Design

Office makeover projects can be fun. They can be rewarding. They can be inspiring. Unfortunately, they can also be a big headache if you're not prepared. Luckily, you have us to help! In today's post we'll share the ins and outs of the design process to help you create the interiors of your dreams without the hassle. Enjoy!

Every good office design and makeover project starts with proper space planning. Don't rush out and purchase new furniture assuming it will fit correctly in your space. Take the time to measure out your interiors correctly. Be sure to take note of entry ways, power outlets, windows, and room obstructions that will affect the way your office furniture fits. Then, recheck your measurements for accuracy. Never rely on old blueprints or estimations. Obtain measurements yourself to be on the safe side. You'll be glad you did!

Once you've got the dimensions of your space, it's time to do a cost analysis to determine a reasonable budget for your project. Setting a budget will help keep you from splurging and over extending throughout the makeover process. Do a little research to get the ball rolling. Visit a local showroom, browse for furniture online, and get a good idea of what you'll be comfortable spending. Don't forget to account for the little things like room accents and ergonomic accessories. They will make a big difference in appeal and functionality.

We know you're eager to get out and shop for new furniture, but you need to get a little inspiration before you do! Start by creating a design folder to house ideas for your space. Take pics at your local furniture showroom and visit social sharing sites like Pinterest. You can also visit surrounding businesses to network while you get inspiration. Consider researching the latest office design trends to ensure your space is up to date. Once inspired, select a theme for your project. This year modern, industrial, retro, and contemporary looks are all very popular.

You've waited long enough, it's time to start shopping! We recommend making your furniture purchases online. As of now, online shoppers are not required to pay out of state sales tax on transactions. If you're purchasing a new executive desk configuration, the tax alone can be hundreds of dollars. Shopping online will help you maximize your budget over the long haul of your project. To ensure you get the best value, shop on comparison engines like Google Shopping. Here you'll be able to sort products by brand and price from a wide range of dealers. Find a quality furniture provider with good reviews. Before checking out online, be sure to call your dealer directly. As about free shipping specials, coupons, bulk discount pricing, and any monthly sales promotions they may be running. You'll be surprised just how much money one phone call can save you.

Once you've purchase your new furniture, you'll want to stay in close contact with your dealer. Be sure to call 2 days after your order to confirm your order has been processed. During your call, ask about an expected ship date and schedule delivery if possible. One the ship date provided by your dealer, call again to obtain tracking information. This information should be provided without asking, but it's always best to be on the safe side.

Most in stock furniture ships within 2 business days of order. Transit times vary based on carries. That being said, you can likely expect your products to arrive about 5 to 7 business days after order. When your furniture ships out, you'll want to start prepping your space. Clear out old furniture, patch walls, paint, and thoroughly clean. Tackling these simple jobs now will help ensure a smooth transition between work environments.

On the day your furniture arrives, create a staging area to rest furniture before it's assembled. Avoid bringing all products into your office space. This will make for a cluttered and overly crowded installation process that's sure to bring headaches. Before your start breaking into boxes, pull out the shipping documentation just in case you need it later.

When you start the assembly and installation process, you'll want to have basic screwdrivers, sockets, pliers, and cordless drills on hand. For safety reasons, keep a first aid kit handy. As desks and office seating can be quite heavy when packaged, be sure to have a couple helpers available to assist in the process. The best way to handle installation is slow and steady. Follow the instructions, take your time, and take breaks to ensure you don't get frustrated. If you feel like installation and assembly is too much to handle, don't sweat it! Call the professionals about 2 weeks before your furniture arrives to obtain pricing. You'll be able to schedule to have products shipped directly to the installer to avoid receiving products at your place of business.

At the end of the installation process, you'll be left with lots of packaging materials and debris. Plan accordingly! Be ready to break down boxes and clean up lots of bubble wrap. Having trash bags on hand is always a good idea. Once you'e removed all the fodder, take pics of your new interior. Share your success online to help others. You'll certainly get lots of compliments and ideas on how to further improve your space.

Avoiding The Top 6 Office Makeover Mishaps

There's nothing worse than an office makeover mishap! To avoid falling prey to a design disaster, you'll need to properly plan and pay close attention to the advice in today's post. Today we'll share with you the most common makeover mistakes encountered by businesses and how to avoid them effectively.

1.) Didn't Properly Measure

A quality makeover starts with accurate space planning. Start by obtaining the perimeter dimensions of your space. Be sure to take note of power outlets, entry ways, windows, and load bearing members that will affect the way furniture fits. Once you've got your dimensions, double check them! Never, ever, ever, assume furniture will fit without measuring. This is a recipe for disaster that can be easily avoided.

2.) Forgot To Ask The Group

There's a fine line between getting group input and ending up with too many chickens in the hen house! To keep things on the safe side, do preliminary work on your own. Come up with a series of no more than three options per area. If you're taking on private office interiors, provide your coworkers with three full service collections to choose from that include the desk configurations, tables, and storage components needed to complete the areas in questions. On the flip side, you don't want to select products without getting group input. This is sure to leave someone feeling left out and unhappy. Remember, some input is good. Too much can be overwhelming!

3.) Expected Finishes To Match

Mix matching furniture from various brands is dangerous! While two manufacturers may call a finish cherry, it doesn't mean they are exactly the same. Schedule your project far enough in advance to obtain multiple finish samples for the furniture you're considering purchasing. In most cases, fabric and finish samples can be to you in about a week. If you don't have the time to wait for samples, be on the safe side and purchase your office seating and furniture from the same brand. If you have any questions about finishes matching, call your dealer of choice. In the long run, it never hurts to ask.

4.) Didn't Get Tracking Information

Whether you purchase furniture online or from a local dealer, you need to obtain tracking information as soon as possible. Don't delay this important step and end up with thousands of dollars worth of new furniture sitting in your lobby! Tracking information will provide you with the valuable window needed to get your space ready. Let's say you've ordered a new conference table and chairs for your business. If you obtain your tracking number, you'll know exactly how long you have to clear out old furniture from your space, patch walls, paint, and accessorize before your new products arrive. You'll also know when to staff extra workers to help with assembly.

5.) Unprepared For Installation

In most cases, office furniture installation can be handled effectively with 2 to 4 people. That being said, contact your dealer before products arrive to inquire about installation services. They'll typically be able to share tips, demo videos, and advice that will help you tackle the process. In addition, if you feel like installation is a bit much for your business to handle internally, your dealer will be able to provide professional resources in your area. Professional installation should be quoted for any project consisting of 3 or more areas. Basic executive desk configurations, conference room tables, and reception desks take around an hour to put together. Prepare accordingly! You'll also want to have a staging area clearly defined to place furniture when it arrives. Having basic tools on hand is also a must. Last but not least, furniture is packed extremely well. There will be debris! Be sure to have plenty of trash bags and dumpster space available before you begin.

6.) Went Over Budget

Don't wait until your project is complete to realize you've gone over budget. Work with your team from day one to determine how much you can spend without over extending. Create an excel spreadsheet to track purchases during the process. This will help you keep a close eye on your budget. If you want to keep it simple, provider your dealer with an idea of how much you're looking to spend. They'll be happy to help you select the best products in your price range. Like with most office makeover mishaps, budget issues typically result from assuming and improper planning. Don't fall into this group!

Reviewing The 5 Hottest Office Design Trends of 2014

2014 was an awesome year for the world of professional office design. This year a variety of key trends emerged that are continuing to change the way we look at our work spaces. In today's post, we'll showcase and review 5 of this years hottest trends. Enjoy!

Powered Conference Tables

If you took on a meeting area makeover project in 2014, the odds are you chose a powered conference room table for your space. Powered conference tables are guaranteed to make your conference room meetings run more efficiently and keep your professional gatherings much more productive. This year, brands like Global Total Office changed the game with there Zira series powered conference table line. In addition, Mayline made huge strides in the powered table realm with collections like Transaction and Medina. Rest assured, this is one office design trend that's here to stay!

Gray Office Chairs

It seems gray has become the new black! This year gray office chairs were the preferred choice of interior design teams and consumers alike. Popular gray office chair solutions like the Joplin and Hendrix series chairs from Woodstock Marketing were incredibly successful in 2014. Much like black, gray upholstery provides a neutral tone that matches nearly any wood or metal finish to perfection. Those not looking to go the traditional route of black leather seating found that gray chairs added the same classy feel without the overly dark and gloomy feel of black in the workplace.

Industrial Furniture

The industrial look was huge in 2014. The blending of metal components into desking configurations and tables alike provides a commercial feel that designers love. Much like with the stainless steel appliance movement in the kitchen, the popularity of silver metal office furniture is growing at a very rapid rate. Brands like Mayline, Cherryman Industries, Global Total Office, and OFM have all expanded there repertoire of products to include metal accented solutions for both professional and home applications.

Ribbed Back Chairs

2014 was the year of the ribbed back office chair! The sleek nature of ribbed back chairs saves space and looks great in both executive office and meeting settings. Best selling ribbed back office chair models like the BT-9826H from Flash Furniture offer high end appeal at an affordable price point. Additional brands like Ergo Contract Furniture, Woodstock Marketing, and Offices To Go have also jumped on board with this growing trend.

Lime Green

It seems everywhere we looked this year, designers where using lime green as the primary accent color for professional office spaces. This vibrant tone is definitely a great way to make any work environment stand apart from the competition. From lime green office chairs to lime green painted accent walls, this popular color was the number one choice of 2014.  As a result, brands like Mayline and Cherryman have added a variety of cool lime green upholstery options for office chairs and reception benching alike. Look for this trend to stay hot in the months to come, but as with all color trends... the lime green movement will eventually shift to the next hot color!

Creating A Cost Effective Executive Office That Rocks

On all fronts, a desk configuration is the focal point of any executive space. Not only do executives work there for most of the day, but it's also the first place guests look to for aid and advice. Naturally, creating a desk space that meets these needs effectively and visually can seem daunting. Luckily, there are many manufacturers that make the task an affordable cinch. Check them out below in our helpful steps to create your space!

Choose A Desk Layout

Because of the size and elaborate materials that go into making one, desks are almost always the visual focal point of the room. In order to create a professional environment, designers should strive to pick configurations that meet high demands. Choosing one that looks good and also allows work to be done effectively and efficiently is one of the most important parts of office design.

Unfortunately, finding a desk layout that doesn't lay out your wallet is tough, but brand name collections like popular Amber collection by Cherryman are there to help. This collection, along with Superior Laminate Desking by Offices To Go both make use of the industrial style characteristics using dark wood and chrome, but they do offer lighter wood finishes for versatility. They typically make use of modular design to create the ultimate efficient workplace.

Other affordable office furniture collections for interior design include Mayline's Brighton collection with light and dark wood options as well. Like the others, this set is very cost effective compared to other brands, so you never have to worry about stretching your money too far. In addition, each collection also features stylish meeting tables and storage options to unite the whole workplace under one stylish look! Don't forget to ask for bulk savings.


Select An Adjustable Executive Chair

 All too often, amateur designers go through all the trouble of selecting a beautiful workspace, but in forgetting to choose a cool new chair to go with it, they spoil the look with an ugly old chair. The best way to avoid this catastrophe is by seeking out cool discount office chairs with adjustable features. Try to look for one that matches the look of your space, but keep in mind that many of the chairs on the websites have many color and upholstery options that can't be seen unless you click on it. Don't forget that you'll need some comfortable executive guest chairs for office visitors as well. If you've already selected your chair, see if the brand offers lookalikes in the guest styling so your office won't clash.

Accessorize

Last but not least, no look is complete unless you accessorize! Knowing how to furnish your new office with the right materials is crucial to maintaining a functional and effective work environment. If you work a lot on computers, make sure to outfit your workstation with adjustable monitor arms to promote health in the workplace. These devices allow users to move and tilt their computer screen until it is in the right position for them. CPU holders are cheap and affordable ways to ensure nothing spills or damages your hard drive. They usually work by suspending the hard drive underneath desks to keep them out of the way. They also make rewiring a snap!

How to Personalize Your Office Work Space

For most people, work is their home away from home, whether they like it or not. But trying to work in an area that's not conducive with your personality can inhibit both desire and determination to get the job done. Rather than suffering through eight hours in a space you don't like, why not turn your desk or cubicle into a personal sanctuary? Here's a few tips to help you out!

Bring Home to the Office 

Your office is your home away from home, so go ahead and make it look like one! Surrounding yourself with the things you like from home, like your favorite coffee mug, your kid's crazy school art projects, and photos of loved ones is a great way to turn your workspace into one you won't mind working in. You may even be able to get your boss to allow a desk-buddy like a bowl fish to keep you company. The more a cubicle or desk space resembles your home, the more inclined you are to feel "at-home"in your office. Studies show that when employees are comfortable and relaxed, as if they were at home, work tends to be faster and more productive, so don't be afraid to get comfy!

Get Rid of Your Walls

No, we don't mean knock them down (you're not looking to get fired.) But boring walls can be pretty conducive to sleep rather than working. Instead of sticking it out in cubicle layouts with modular design, where staying awake is a challenge, dress up your walls with things that keep your eyes interested! Adding some stylish wall art, or nature and animal photos can easily turn boring cubicle walls into windows. You may even decide to go with a destination theme to decorate around, like Hawaii, Asia, or Africa. Adding low-maintenance desk plants like spider plants, golden pothos, or lemon balm gives desks new life by bringing the outside in. By acting like natural air cleaners for office use, they're perfect for the elderly, anyone with breathing problems, and those that work in the city. (They also smell nice!)

Get Your Own Chair

Any ergonomist will tell you that comfort is the key to successful employees. However, many workplaces issue standard cubicle chairs that aren't very comfortable, and can actually end up causing health problems over time. People are individuals, which means they need individual comfort. Instead of relying on a cheap company chair, go shopping for some cozy fabric ergonomic office seating for sale features. These chairs will allow for some personalization by way of adjustable features. It's an excellent solution for those that have pre-existing problems like neck, muscle, and back pain, or even joint issues and poor blood circulation. Many chairs are specifically designed to relieve these symptoms and promote superior comfort as well as health!

*(Worried about someone stealing your fancy new chair? Simply attach it to a desk support or drawer with a bike-lock to deter any office pirates.)

Go Ergonomic

If you're already shopping for an ergonomic chair, why not go all out? Adjustable features aren't just limited to office seating, there are plenty of excellent ergonomic workplace products to improve health, comfort, and productivity in the office drastically. Items like monitor arms can attach to computer screens, allowing users to tilt, stretch, and retract them for optimal viewing (known to relieve neck and upper back pain). Retractable keyboard trays alleviate joint problems and lower risk of carpal tunnel syndrome by putting the computer's keyboard in a reasonable, comfortable space for typing rather than forcing users to reach on top of their desk.

Accessories and Dual Purpose Items

And finally, go ahead and trick out your workspace with anything else that speaks to you. Try to choose things that will make your work experience more comfortable and won't take up a ton of space. Back supports like the 7153BL Mesh Back Rest by Safco greatly reduce back pain. They come in super affordable packs of five, so you may even convince the boss to get some for the whole office. Some items like the Solstice desk lamp by ESI even have dual purposes to function effectively without eating up all your desk room. This fancy lamp lets you charge cellphones, mp3 players, and other handheld devices at the same time as it lights up your cubicle. Whatever you choose to go with, rest assured that you've made your place your own, and you'll never dread the visit to your home away from home again!

5 Interior Design Trends for Enhancing Office Appeal

No bones about it, the workplace is a competitive industry. These days, companies need every competitive edge they can get to stay on top, from smart, amiable employees, to quality products, to customer service, and yes, a great looking office. When a place looks good in person, it leaves an impression on those that walk in. If you need to redesign your workplace, here's some professional tips inspired by the trends at NeoCon to help you reel in the clientele!

The Euro Look

No, we haven't been invaded, but the design world certainly has! One of the biggest trends at last year's NeoCon (the birthplace of commercial style and innovation) was the European look, and it's not really a big surprise. With the success of popular office chairs by Eurotech and other European inspired names, it only makes sense that this style is the way to go, and it hasn't gone anyplace yet. Users still love the memorable look of European high backed chairs and desks. They're comfortable, functional, and tricked out with all sorts of ergonomic features to bring out the best in all office spaces, from the waiting area, to the desks.

Earth Tones

Earth tones were a popular trend at last year's convention for obvious reasons. One of the biggest is probably due to the "green" movement and the fact that most offices want to showcase their eco-friendliness. But another reason could have a lot to do with the prevalence of primary colors as an older trend. Bright blues, oranges, reds, and yellows were once a way to stand out in the workplace, but much of it has now become passé, particularly since "coloring book" is a hard look to pull off. Earth tones like greens, tans, whites, and warm grays are cozy and comfortable, especially covering affordable lounge furniture for waiting rooms at the office. Not only do they tend to match almost anything, but they're also familiar to guests and employees alike.

High Tech

It's probably safe to say that technology won't be going anywhere, especially in the workplace. Heck! Half the workplaces nowadays are likely run through e-commerce more than anything else. Trying to predict the future of the high tech world can be a little like, well, trying to predict the future. Most of us have no idea where it's going to go, but today's tech gives us a good starting point to guess from. With a little research on computer innovation, business owners can have a good sense of where the tech world is headed so they can buy furniture accordingly. It's best to have things like office desks with modern design that leave room for technological advances with devices such as power outlets. Choosing chairs with tablets allows users a place to set laptops should they have need of them in the office or lobby.

Great Upholsteries

Buyers can never go wrong with fabric or leather as long as they choose the right colors and patterns to represent their workspace. However, keeping up with what's new is a great way to stay on top. The secret has sort of gotten out that stylish mesh back chairs with ergonomic are comfortable as well as affordable, but that doesn't make them any less modern. These chairs are starting to be seen almost everywhere, which may lead most to believe the style is on it's way out, but mesh chairs are more than just a pretty upholstery. They're incredibly functional, offering both support and breathable fabric. Another trendy upholstery from last year's NeoCon is felt. This soft plushy fabric covered everything, floor to ceiling. It's appealing, easy to cut, and easy to cover with, making it a favorite DIY fans and business owners alike.

An Open Workspace

The success of large companies like Google, Facebook, and other multi-national web giants has actually led to a remarkable office innovation. Many of these companies swear their success is do to more than just web output and innovative ideas. It is also due to the spread of those ideas, which is part of why open desking is such a huge trend. When coworkers aren't blocked by cubicle walls, they're likely working together at modular workstations for business use. These inventions are basically big desks where employees can work side-by-side, with plenty of space. Open modular desking and training areas improve the spread of revolutionary ideas to build companies upon.