Space Planning – A Major Part Of Interior Design
Space planning is no longer just a job for architects. These days, interior design and architecture have a very thin line of demarcation. Most of the time, they already intertwine.
Space planning is all about the designer being able to block out interior spatial parts; the definition of circulation patterns as well as the development of layouts and plans for the equipment and furniture. There are many design parameters to space planning. This includes the project goals of the client as well as his priorities. Other aspects such as relationships, building codes, space allocation, access to the disabled, standards in furniture choice, design, building system interface, and many more should be considered.
The advent of offices situated in high-rise buildings has spurred the increase in the number of unfinished interiors. This brought about a new market for space planning services. Today, space planning is already a standalone activity; its importance is highly regarded by interior designers who are out to make the corporate world into a place of productivity. Designers’ markets also increase by the year since space leasing and multi-floor office use are now the most ideal office setup.
In the ‘90s, space planning became highly popular because there was a huge change with regard to organization structuring. More management strategies geared towards productivity as well as creativity. Technology has also played a huge role in coming up with space planning concepts.
Client Requirements
Clients who prefer to use existing office space or tenants who simply want to alter the look of their office interiors need the services of space planning experts. Older facilities may also require reorganization in order to accommodate added work processes or newer equipment.
Growing big is not the only reason why space planning can become useful. Sometimes, downsizing also requires a new space layout. Since organizational changes now happen a lot faster than they did in the past, a lot of office utilizers now want to optimize their interior space. There is now a lot of space planning consultants whose job is to support facility managers in responding to the required changes.
Space Planning Made Simple
Space planners know that there are just four fundamental factors to consider in order to effectively plan and allocate space. You do not need a lot of intricacies in order to organize furniture or utilize space in the most efficient manner.
The Office Room’s Purpose
To be able to provide the most functional design, it is vital for the interior designer and the client to sit down and discuss the intended purpose for the office space. Will this be used for meetings and conferences? Is this going to be an interview room? Or will the space be allocated for the employees’ entertainment and relaxation?
Space planning is highly dependent on the function of the room and any other unique need that should be met.
The Focal Point
No matter what the function of the room is, the space must have a focal point. This focal point can either be a widescreen TV, whiteboard, or a sofa (if the room is going to be used as a reception area, for instance).
After you establish a focal point, you need to make sure that the furniture accentuates the given point. Remember that emphasizing a focal point also helps you emphasize the function of the room.
Traffic Flow
This simply means living ample room for people to walk around comfortably inside the room. Never obstruct traffic or make a room look cluttered through complex patterns or unnecessary accessories.
Correct Measurements
Be sure to invest in a new sofa that would fit into the allocated space. There is nothing more cumbersome than to have furniture delivered only to have it taken back to the furniture dealer. Make sure also that your choice of furniture is appropriate for the theme or function of the room.
