Choosing the right materials for your office fit-out is crucial to creating the desired atmosphere along with a functional, aesthetically pleasing, and durable workspace.
At Tapper Interiors, we are often contracted for office fit-outs. We can help you choose the right materials for the ambience you want.
Tips for Choosing the Right Materials for Your Office Fit-out
Over our years in business and assisting with office fit-outs, we have seen various office layouts, styles and functionalities. Because of this, we can help our clients choose the right materials for their office fit-outs.
Here are some of our top tips that you should consider.
Office Functionality – Consider your office’s specific needs. Do you need soundproof materials for quiet areas? Are easy-to-clean surfaces essential in high-traffic areas? Are break-out rooms required? How best can you use the space?
Aesthetics and Branding – Can you choose materials that reflect your brand identity and create a visually appealing environment? Can your logo be incorporated? Or can you choose materials that are your band colour?
Durability – We always advise opting for materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. This ensures longevity and reduces maintenance costs.
Budget Considerations – Explore financing or leasing options for expensive materials or furniture.
Safety and Compliance – Ensure all materials meet local building codes and regulations. This includes fire-resistant materials, non-slip flooring, and non-toxic finishes.
Going Greener – There is a real push towards making sure businesses are doing as much as they can to become more carbon neutral and help the environment. How much of this do you want to incorporate into your office fit-out? And how can you achieve this?
Materials for Office Fit-Outs
When it comes to materials for office fit-outs, the two main elements we can work on are partition walls and suspended ceilings. We can also help with flooring, electrics and plumbing where required.
Partition Wall Materials
Stud Walls – Partition walls or stud walls are constructed of metal studs, plasterboard, and insulation. They are great for creating privacy, reducing noise levels, and separating spaces. Because they are internal and don’t affect the building structure, they usually don’t require planning permission, so they could be a useful option for many offices.
Glass Partitions – Glass partition walls are excellent for creating a sense of openness while providing soundproofing. Their main benefit is that they allow natural light to flow throughout the office space. They are perfect for open-plan offices that require break-out rooms or private offices.
Ceiling Materials
Grid-Suspended Ceilings – In grid-suspended ceiling systems, panels are installed within a visible grid. The panels can be made from a variety of materials, including:
- Mineral/rock
- Glass fibre
- Calcium silicate
- Perlite
- Plasterboard
- Glass reinforced gypsum
- Wood
- Steel
- Aluminium
Metal Pan Ceilings – Metal pan ceilings are constructed of metal tiles in various sizes, allowing for customisation based on design and functional requirements.
MF Plasterboard Ceilings – These are a metal framework boarded with plasterboard. Dependant on the type of plasterboard and insulation different fire ratings and acoustic values can be achieved.
Other Office Fit-Out Materials and Elements
Flooring Options – There are several flooring materials to choose from. You can choose from such items as carpet tiles, vinyl flooring, hardwood, and concrete.
Furniture and Fixtures – Consider the types of furniture that will be placed in the office. This may influence the materials you choose for your walls and ceilings or vice versa.
Lighting Solutions – Again, your lighting fixtures may be chosen based on the materials you choose for your ceilings and partition walls. It’s important to consider the look you want your office fit-out to achieve and choose lighting fixtures based on this.
Choosing the Right Materials for your Office Fit-Out with Tapper Interiors
When you work with Tapper Interiors, we can help you carefully select the right materials for your office fit-out. This results in a workplace that is beautiful, comfortable but also functional, and sustainable, enhancing employee well-being and productivity. To work with us or to discuss your project, contact us today.