Create A Google Style Office On A Budget

Google has an unconventional approach to office layout. The company claim that “no two offices are the same”, but can share similar features.

Key common features include quirky huddle areas (the head office in London has a meeting area called ‘Granny’s flat’), video games, pool tables, ‘micro kitchens’ stacked with healthily food, and lets not forget the traditional white board.

Nothing could be further away from desks with partition screens and horrid filing cabinets.

Google Style Offices Boost Productivity

Research has been conducted which proves that a business’ success is dependent on how happy their staff is. Research has also shown that the layout of a persons office environment plays a big part in achieving this happy level in staff and has a knock on effect on productivity levels.

Google style offices make me want to work for Google; and isn't that the whole point? Your staff should want to come into the office, and be happy. The traditional office promotes many feelings, although an eagerness to get to work is not one of them.

Google has been named as the best company to work for by Fortune, 6 times (yes, 6) in a row, so they must be doing something right when making sure their staff is happy.

Isn’t this a bit expensive for a start up?

You may be thinking that Google has been able to achieve these amazing offices given their almost unlimited budget, and you're probably right - but don’t let a limited budget be the reason you have a plain boring office.

Putting in time, money and thought into your office will provide you with an invaluable return - happy staff! Whilst you do not need to spend the earth and create something as extravagant as what google has, your business could still benefit from an office space which is more than just desks, chairs and magnolia walls.

Cheaper Productivity Boasting Space

Now we know the benefits of having a non-traditional, fun office area, we need to think about how to create one on a limited budget. Hiring an interior designer may be pricey, but there are some things you can do without one.

When designing your non-office office, think about the important things; that is, what do staff need and how can we make work feel more personal.

Think of creating areas where staff are encouraged to talk and share ideas and progress. Make space for a comfortable (or even fun) area that staff can go to have a real break, rather than eating at their desks. Have areas where staff can get creative when exploring ideas.

It’s Not Just A White Wall…

Art can also have an huge impact on office atmosphere and you don’t need to invest in a multimillion pound canvas to hang in your office for it to count as art. Rather, focus on pieces which add a positive feel to the office. Or even select pieces which illiterate company values, hopes and aims?

Final Thoughts

Yes, recreating a Google style office is going to be expensive, but there is no reason why we can’t take a few ideas and make them our own, and in a way which suits a limited budget. It is all about creating a happy, productive space, where staff are not limited by their environment. If staff win, the business wins.

The layout of an office can speak a millions words about a company’s culture; what do you want your office to say about your company?

Ben Livings is the director of Sadlers Farm Office Furniture, a new and second-hand office furniture suppliers. Ben truly believes that productivity increases when you have a bright and consistent environment for employees to work in.