As we step further into the digital age, the dynamics of the workplace continue to evolve, influencing everything from technology to office culture. One aspect that often goes overlooked but significantly impacts productivity, creativity, and employee well-being is office furniture. In 2024, we're witnessing a fascinating shift in office furniture trends, driven by a fusion of technological advancements, sustainability concerns, and a growing focus on employee comfort and flexibility. Let's delve into some of the prominent trends reshaping our workspaces this year.
Ergonomic Designs for Enhanced Comfort
In today's fast-paced work environment, where employees spend long hours seated at their desks, prioritizing comfort is paramount. Ergonomic furniture designs are gaining momentum, aimed at reducing strain and improving posture. Expect to see chairs with adjustable lumbar support, height-adjustable desks, and accessories like keyboard trays and monitor arms, all geared towards promoting a healthier and more comfortable work experience.
Multi-functional and Flexible Furniture
Flexibility is the name of the game in modern office design. With the rise of remote work and hybrid models, offices need furniture that can adapt to varying needs and spaces. Multi-functional pieces such as modular desks, convertible tables, and storage units with flexible configurations are becoming increasingly popular. These versatile solutions allow for easy reconfiguration of spaces, fostering collaboration and accommodating diverse work styles.
Sustainable Materials and Eco-friendly Practices
As environmental consciousness continues to grow, so does the demand for sustainable office furniture. Companies are increasingly opting for furniture made from recycled materials, responsibly sourced wood, and low-emission finishes. Additionally, there's a shift towards circular economy principles, with more emphasis on refurbishing and repurposing existing furniture to extend their lifespan. Expect to see an abundance of eco-friendly options that not only reduce environmental impact but also contribute to a healthier workspace.
Tech-Integrated Furniture for Seamless Connectivity
In an era dominated by technology, office furniture is getting smarter. Integration of technology into furniture pieces is on the rise, with features like built-in power outlets, wireless charging pads, and USB ports becoming standard. This seamless connectivity allows employees to stay powered up and connected without the hassle of tangled cords, enhancing productivity and efficiency in the workplace.
Biophilic Design Elements for Wellness
Bringing elements of nature into the office has been shown to have numerous benefits, from reducing stress to improving productivity and creativity. In 2024, biophilic design principles are being integrated into office furniture to create a more harmonious and wellness-oriented workspace. Expect to see furniture adorned with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as incorporating elements such as living walls, greenery, and natural lighting to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments.
Personalized and Customizable Solutions
Recognizing that one size does not fit all, office furniture manufacturers are offering more personalized and customizable solutions to cater to individual preferences and needs. From adjustable desks that can be tailored to specific height requirements to chairs with customizable upholstery options, employees are empowered to create workspaces that reflect their unique tastes and promote a sense of ownership and comfort.
In conclusion, the office furniture landscape in 2024 is characterized by a blend of functionality, sustainability, and employee-centric design. As workplaces continue to evolve, furniture trends will likely continue to adapt to meet the changing needs of modern workers. By embracing these trends, organizations can create environments that not only foster productivity and collaboration but also prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of their employees.
The small round table in the dinette may be great for casual meals with your family, but inviting overnight guests can mean that you need extra chairs around the dining room table to seat more people.
Were were happy to help a local 6th form college to create a new breakout area that students could be proud of
We recently helped a local college to update their current common room area into a more functional and modern space for students to relax and socialise in.
Using Visa chairs and fully welded tables with round tops, we designed part of the room to accommodate those who want to eat, socialise or study in groups. Both the tables and chairs are durable and easy to wipe down, making them ideal for such a high-use area.
Solent modular sofas acted as an excellent room divide and along with a video projector, helped to create a focal point for the space. Comfortable and supportive, the sofas were upholstered in two-tone fabric and now provide a space for students to relax and chat with friends.
Overall, the space is an ideal hub spot for the college, providing students with an adaptable space to use their time in between lessons as they wish.
At the heart of an ergonomic workplace, it has to ensure the setup fits the person using it, rather than forcing the body to adapt to poor furniture or awkward layouts.
Chairs support movement, desks adjust to different tasks, and accessories remove small daily strains which tend to build up over time.
With hybrid working now common and desk time stretching across longer days, office ergonomics has become a practical need rather than a specialist extra.
This guide walks through thirteen ergonomic office products which, used together or individually, help create healthier and more comfortable working environments.
We’ll focus firmly on everyday use, explaining what each product offers, who it suits best, and why it plays a part in a well-balanced ergonomic workplace.
The HÅG SoFi Mesh Chair is designed to support movement rather than encourage static sitting. Its breathable mesh back responds to small shifts in posture, helping users stay comfortable across the day without feeling restricted.
Key ergonomic benefits
Supports natural movement while seated
Helps maintain lower back alignment
Best suited for Office users working standard hours at fixed desks
Logic 220 24-Hour Chair
The Logic 220 24-Hour Chair is built for environments where seating is used for extended periods or shared across shifts. Its structure stays supportive even after many hours of continuous use.
Key ergonomic benefits
Maintains posture during long sitting periods
Highly adjustable for different users
Best suited for Control rooms, shared desks, and shift-based workplaces
Enjoy Elite G2 Ergonomic Chair With Headrest
Offering a balance of structure and comfort, the Enjoy Elite G2 Ergonomic Chair features a headrest that supports the neck during focused desk work. It suits users who spend most of their day seated.
Key ergonomic benefits
Supports upper back and neck
Encourages neutral spine positioning
Best suited for Desk-based roles with limited movement during the day
Toleo Quick Ship 3D Upholstered Office Chair Black
This upholstered chair from Toleo comes with adjustable support and a more traditional look, making it suitable for offices that need ergonomic chairs without long lead times.
Key ergonomic benefits
Adjustable seat and back support
Cushioned comfort for longer tasks
Best suited for Fast-growing teams or quick office refreshes
Solo Ergonomic Task Chair
The Solo Ergonomic Task Chair is designed for everyday desk work where comfort needs to be simple and reliable. It focuses on the core elements of office ergonomics, supporting posture without overwhelming users with complicated controls. This makes it easier for teams to sit comfortably without having to adjust multiple settings.
Key ergonomic benefits
Supports upright, balanced sitting
Straightforward adjustments reduce setup effort
Best suited for SMEs and shared offices needing practical ergonomic seating
HÅG Capisco Chair 8106
Built around movement rather than traditional sitting, the HÅG Capisco Chair 8106 with its saddle-style seat supports a wide range of postures, allowing users to sit forwards, sideways, or in a semi-standing position.
This flexibility suits roles where tasks change often and fixed seating feels restrictive, helping the body stay active rather than locked into one position.
Key ergonomic benefits
Encourages frequent posture changes
Supports seated and semi-standing work
Best suited for Agile roles using sit-stand desks or varied tasks
Endurance Dual Motor Sit-Stand Desk R800
The Endurance Dual Motor Sit-Stand Desk R800 supports regular movement through the working day by allowing smooth transitions between seated and standing positions.
Its dual motor system keeps height changes steady, which helps users adjust little and often rather than staying in one posture for too long. This makes it easier to build healthier desk habits without interrupting focus.
Key ergonomic benefits
Encourages regular posture changes
Stable height adjustment for daily use
Best suited for Office teams adopting flexible or hybrid working patterns
Each side adjusts independently, allowing users to switch between sitting and standing without affecting their neighbour. This setup supports healthier habits in busy offices, where shared desks often limit individual comfort and movement.
Key ergonomic benefits
Independent height control for each user
Encourages movement in shared spaces
Best suited for Bench desk layouts and collaborative office environments
Core Single Motor Sit-Stand Desk
The Core Single Motor Sit-Stand Desk offers a straightforward way to introduce height-adjustable working without overcomplicating the setup.
It allows users to shift between sitting and standing at a steady pace, supporting small posture changes during the day. This simplicity suits environments where reliability and ease of use matter more than frequent or rapid adjustments.
Key ergonomic benefits
Supports basic sit-stand routines
Simple controls suit everyday use
Best suited for Home offices and smaller teams seeking practical flexibility
Office Desk Risers
Office desk risers provide a flexible way to raise working height without replacing existing furniture.
They sit on top of standard desks, allowing users to work standing for short periods or alternate positions during the day. This makes them useful where permanent sit-stand desks are not practical, helping reduce long spells of seated work with minimal disruption.
Key ergonomic benefits
Supports standing posture without desk replacement
Easy to add or remove as needed
Best suited for Occasional standing work or temporary ergonomic adjustments
Twin Gas Monitor Arm
The Twin Gas Monitor Arm allows two screens to be positioned at comfortable viewing heights, helping users maintain a neutral head and neck position throughout the day.
By lifting monitors off the desk surface, it also creates more usable workspace, supporting cleaner layouts and easier posture adjustments.
Key ergonomic benefits
Supports correct screen height and distance
Reduces neck and shoulder strain
Best suited for Dual-screen users and technical roles
Single Gas Monitor Arm
For precise positioning of a single screen, a single gas monitor arm helps maintain a comfortable viewing angle throughout the day.
Key ergonomic benefits
Reduces neck and eye strain
Allows flexible screen movement
Best suited for Standard single-monitor workstations
Kensington Sole Massage Footrest
The Kensington Sole Massage Footrest supports lower body positioning and encourages subtle movement while seated, which helps reduce discomfort over time.
Key ergonomic benefits
Supports healthy leg positioning
Encourages gentle movement
Best suited for Users needing extra lower-body support
Creating an ergonomic workplace works best when seating, desks, and accessories are considered together rather than in isolation. Chairs, sit-stand desks, and ergonomic desk accessories each play a part in reducing discomfort and supporting long-term health.
Exploring Wave Office’s full range of ergonomic products can help identify combinations suited to different roles and spaces.For tailored advice based on individual needs, teams can also choose to contact us for practical guidance without pressure.
We recently completed an office refurbishment for a charity who were relocating their headquarters to a more modern premises in Reigate.
We were instructed to create a professional but vibrant feel to the new office space and also to create a space that was practical both in terms of working and storage.
We provided the clients with 2D and 3D visual plans to allow them to see how we proposed the layout of the new offices and to help them to choose furniture ranges, styles and finishes.
The whole project was completed within the time frame given to us by the client. This included working around and liaising with other contractors such as electricians and flooring specialists to ensure practicality of location of things such as floor boxes, but also, again, to make sure that the project was completed on time.
The project included refurbishment and furnishing of the following areas:
Reception Area
Meeting Rooms
Offices
The reception area was furnished to include a range of tambour storage and an accessible reception desk finished in a gloss orange and matte white. We also built a bespoke surround around the storage in the reception area to section off the downstairs office from the reception.
The office areas were furnished with grey bench desks with a silver frame and frosted acrylic desk screens with a blue tint. Storage consisted of Bisley tambour cupboards and pedestals underneath the desks. We provided Enjoy chairs for a comfortable seating option that particularly supports the back and lumbar regions of the users.
The new meeting areas were furnished with oval tables and our SJX meeting chairs for a practical and comfortable seating solution. Meeting rooms also benefited from Tilt Top tables for ease of storage and use.
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New Furniture For Various Zones of a Corporate Events Area
A local college engaged our services to furnish their new corporate events area. We designed the layout for various rooms within the area and supplied and installed a range of new furniture.
The end result was a modern, practical and functional space which provides great opportunities for relaxing, dining, meeting and networking.
All tables supplied were from the LTC range which are ideal for high use areas, as well as benefiting from a smart, polished chrome base which perfectly complemented the four star base of the Giggle Chairs.
Giggle chairs and Lilo sofas were upholstered in vinyl for easy cleaning and maintenance, whilst the walnut Espacio chairs provided a comfortable seating solution for the dining area.
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After Optimax became the Ultralase Optimax Group, one of their main objectives was to improve the image of the clinics. Here's how we helped the group to create a brand new clinic in Cardiff.
Having bought an empty building, the Ultralase Optimax group asked us to create a new clinic from design to build. The design was to include an operating theatre, recovery room, consultation rooms, staff rooms, an air handling plant and reception area.
In the reception area we added LED lighting, a large wall graphic and a gloss white reception desk and storage wall to give the clinic a fresh and modern feel. We added Giggle chairs to the lobby to provide comfort for visitors and extend on the modern theme.
We handled all aspects of design and build and completed the project four weeks early and under budget.
The new clinic was opened by Lee Halfpenny in October 2017 with staff and patients commenting on the "stylish, modern feel". There are now plans in place to refurbish other clinics to match the same design criteria.
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Recently, we were asked to carry out a refurbishment of multiple rooms for a local electrical manufacturing company. Here's what we did.
The refurbishment was to include the boardroom, executive toilets and the executive hallway with multiple changes throughout each room.
The boardroom benefited from new carpets, new blinds and new secondary double glazing to keep noise to a minimum throughout conference calls and meetings. This was complemented by the addition of a new acoustic wall and the installation of a new high specification audio/visual set up with surround sound, ideal for video conferences.
We added a new 3 piece Walnut veneer boardroom table with full cable management. This ensures cables stay tidy and hidden down through the table legs and into floor boxes. We also added a matching veneer storage unit with integral fridge and included high back leather executive chairs to create a modern and professional feel. The finishing touch to this room came in the form of a new ceiling with a recessed feature light above the boardroom table.
We were also instructed to carry out a refurbishment of the executive toilets. Here, we replaced all old porcelain, cubicles and tiling and added new flooring for a fresh look and feel.
The executive corridor was also refreshed with new Ash doors, LED lighting and a new ceiling grid and tiles.
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We recently a carried out an exciting refurbishment of 8 classrooms, creating fun and practical learning environments
Classrooms are ever changing environments and need to be able to adapt to a number of ways of working and different activities throughout the day. They also need to be engaging, fun and practical. This is exactly the type of spaces we recently created in a local school.
All classrooms featured student tables with dry-wipe surfaces. This not only creates a sense of fun, but serves as a practical way for children to learn and interact with their lesson. It also helps to stop damage and graffiti! We paired these tables with ergonomic Postura+ chairs. These chairs are highly durable and encourage students to sit in the correct position. This not only benefits their posture, but also their ability to concentrate. An ergonomic sitting position allows proper blood and oxygen flow throughout the body and also stops slouching which can tell the brain it's time to relax, causing a lack of productivity and concentration.
The storage areas in the classrooms featured space for children's trays, as well as cupboard and drawer space for equipment and teacher's essentials. The gloss white and grey finish of the storage area complimented the tables and gave a modern feel to the space.
Finally, the teacher's desks were supplied with integrated power and USB charging sockets, keeping equipment fully charged and accessible throughout the day, without the need for trailing wires or extension leads.
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At Wave Office we provide free space planning and design services to help you to get the most out of your work place
Office refurbishment can be a daunting task and visualizing the outcome is often one of the trickiest things to do. This can add extra worry if the project is your responsibility.
Planning space through the use of Computer Aided Design allows you to see how a refurbishment or new furniture will look in a space. This is beneficial for both the refurbishment company and you, the client. It is particularly helpful if you are working to a strict time scale as you can redesign the plan before any actual work is carried out, rather than making amendments at the end of the project. It also allows you to relax during the process knowing exactly how your desired outcome will look.
It can also be helpful to take the plans and designs into meetings with other people involved in the refurbishment project. This helps to prevent ambiguity and confusion and allows everyone to clearly see, agree on, or give their input on the intended outcome.
Wave Office have more than 20 years experience in planning, designing and furnishing great work spaces, casinos, schools, universities, colleges, leisure centres and many other businesses. So, if 2023 is the year for you to update your furniture or work space, get in touch for some helpful advice, space planning and a great choice of furniture.
An office refurbishment covers far more than simply replacing furniture or repainting walls.
In most organisations, it involves reviewing how space is used, updating layouts, improving technology, upgrading finishes, and aligning the workplace with changing operational needs. In larger businesses and education settings, it can also mean navigating compliance, procurement frameworks, and strict timelines.
Without structure, a workplace refurbishment can drift off course. Budgets stretch, decisions stall, and teams lose confidence in the process. An organised office refurbishment checklist brings clarity from the outset. It gives the likes of facilities managers, procurement officers and educational facilities buyers, a framework they can follow step by step, reducing risk and limiting disruption.
Our guide walks you through each stage of office refurbishment planning, from defining objectives through to post-project review. It covers layout, furniture, compliance, technology and delivery, helping you approach your office redesign with a clear plan and measurable outcomes.
Understanding Your Refurbishment Goals
Every successful project starts with purpose. Before engaging suppliers or sketching new layouts, define why the refurbishment is happening and what the organisation expects to gain.
Common drivers include:
Team growth or departmental restructuring
Rebranding or leadership change
A shift towards hybrid working models
Wellbeing concerns linked to outdated layouts
Compliance upgrades or building requirements
Clarify what success looks like. For some organisations, this may mean increasing desk capacity without expanding floor space. For others, it may involve creating collaborative zones that support project-based working. Educational environments often focus on durability, safety and adaptability within tight budgets.
Establish a working budget range early, even if it evolves. This helps guide decisions around specification and phasing. Equally, map out a realistic timeline. Consider lease events, academic terms, financial year cycles and supplier lead times.
By documenting objectives, budget parameters and timing expectations, you create a reference point for the entire office refurbishment checklist. Every decision can then be tested against agreed goals.
Assessing Your Current Office Space
A thorough evaluation of your existing environment provides the foundation for informed decisions. Rather than focusing solely on what needs replacing, look closely at how the space currently performs.
Start by reviewing:
Desk utilisation and occupancy patterns
Storage levels and document management
Circulation routes and congestion points
Meeting room usage
Staff feedback on comfort and layout
Many often discover that space is underused in some areas yet overcrowded in others. Procurement teams may identify assets that can be retained to protect budgets. In education settings, classroom or administrative spaces may require better zoning rather than wholesale replacement.
Identify what should be kept, refurbished or upgraded. Furniture in good condition may be reused in different zones. Technology infrastructure might need modernising even if finishes remain suitable. Documenting these findings ensures your office fit-out checklist reflects genuine operational needs rather than assumptions.
Planning Your New Office Layout
Layout influences productivity, movement and overall experience. A thoughtful plan balances focused work with collaboration, ensuring that different activities have appropriate space.
During office refurbishment planning, consider how teams interact. Departments that rely on close coordination may benefit from clustered workstations. Functions requiring confidentiality may need quieter areas or acoustic treatment. In educational contexts, flexibility can support varied teaching methods and administrative tasks.
Space planning also involves understanding density. Overcrowding affects comfort and safety, while excessive open space reduces efficiency. Professional layout design uses measured drawings and workflow analysis to optimise flow without compromising accessibility.
Creating Zones for Different Activities
Modern workplaces rarely rely on a single desk-based format. Zoning allows multiple work styles to coexist within one environment.
Typical zones include:
Focus areas for concentrated individual tasks
Collaboration zones for informal discussion
Formal meeting rooms with privacy
Breakout spaces supporting wellbeing
Touchdown areas for hybrid staff
Zoning supports productivity by aligning the environment with tasks. In a structured workplace refurbishment, these areas are defined early in the layout process, ensuring power, lighting and furniture specification match intended use.
Improving Flow and Accessibility
Movement through the office should feel intuitive. Clear walkways, logical department positioning and appropriate signage all contribute to smoother circulation.
Accessibility considerations are equally important. Door widths, desk heights and turning circles must align with inclusive design standards. Compliance with equality legislation and building regulations should be integrated from the outset rather than retrofitted later.
By prioritising flow and inclusivity, your office redesign becomes more than a visual upgrade. It supports safety, comfort and long-term adaptability.
Working With an Office Design and Fit Team
Managing a workplace refurbishment internally can place considerable pressure on facilities and procurement teams. Coordinating contractors, tracking budgets and resolving design queries alongside day-to-day responsibilities increases risk.
An experienced design and fit partner provides structured support across:
Concept design and space planning
Detailed specifications
Supplier coordination
Project management
Installation and commissioning
Professional oversight reduces delays and cost overruns. It also streamlines communication between stakeholders, contractors and internal decision-makers. For larger organisations, documented processes and clear reporting align with procurement requirements.
Partnering with a specialist team turns an office refurbishment checklist into an actionable project plan, supported by technical knowledge and practical delivery experience.
Selecting Furniture for the Refurbished Space
Furniture plays a central role in performance and comfort. Selection should follow layout planning rather than precede it, ensuring products match both space and usage.
Durability, ergonomics and warranty support are particularly important in high-traffic corporate or educational settings. Consider future flexibility, as organisational needs rarely remain static.
Desks and Workstations
The choice of office desk configuration influences density and adaptability. Fixed desks may suit stable teams with assigned seating. Sit-stand workstations support movement and can contribute to improved posture over time.
Shared bench systems encourage collaboration but require careful cable management. Individual workstations offer privacy yet demand more floor space. During office refurbishment planning, assess which model aligns with work patterns and the available footprint.
Explore suitable options through Wave Office’s range of office desk solutions, selecting formats that complement your new layout while supporting practical daily use.
Chairs and Seating
Seating directly affects well-being and productivity. Adjustable lumbar support, seat depth control and armrest flexibility allow users to tailor chairs to their needs.
High-quality office chairs reduce discomfort and absenteeism linked to musculoskeletal strain. In educational settings, durability and ease of maintenance also influence specification decisions.
Wave Office provides a comprehensive range of office chairs designed to balance ergonomics with long-term reliability. Integrating suitable seating into your office fit-out checklist protects both staff comfort and compliance obligations.
Storage and Ancillary Furniture
Storage planning often receives less attention than desks or seating, yet it shapes efficiency. Poorly planned storage leads to cluttered walkways and underused zones.
Assess document retention policies before specifying cabinets. Lockable storage may be necessary for confidential materials. Shared storage walls can free desk space and support open-plan layouts.
Ancillary items such as meeting tables, reception counters and breakout seating should align with branding and usage requirements. Coordinated specification maintains visual consistency across the refurbished space.
Planning Lighting and Electrical Work
Lighting and electrical infrastructure should be addressed early in the refurbishment programme rather than treated as finishing touches. Both influence comfort, productivity and long-term adaptability.
Start by reviewing how natural light enters the space. Desk positioning should maximise daylight without causing screen glare. Artificial lighting can then be layered to suit different zones. Task lighting supports focused workstations, while balanced ambient lighting maintains consistent illumination across open-plan areas. In meeting rooms, controllable lighting levels may improve screen visibility and presentation quality.
Energy efficiency also warrants attention. LED fittings with occupancy sensors can reduce operational costs while maintaining consistent output. Emergency lighting must be positioned in line with fire safety guidance and tested before reoccupation.
Electrical planning extends beyond standard sockets. Floor boxes, wall-mounted outlets and integrated desk power modules should reflect workstation layouts and collaboration zones. Structured cabling and clearly routed data connections prevent trip hazards and simplify maintenance.
Future capacity remains an important consideration. Allowing for additional power and data provision within your office refurbishment checklist supports expansion, new equipment and evolving hybrid working models without disruptive retrofitting.
Choosing Finishes and Interior Details
Finishes shape how a refurbished office feels on a daily basis. While layout and furniture determine function, materials and detailing influence comfort, durability and long-term maintenance.
Flooring should reflect usage patterns across different zones. Carpet tiles often suit open-plan work areas, offering acoustic support and straightforward replacement in high-wear sections. Hard flooring may be appropriate in receptions, breakout areas or circulation routes where cleaning frequency is higher. In education environments, slip resistance and resilience under heavy footfall require close consideration.
Wall treatments contribute to both identity and practicality. Durable paint systems or protective wall coverings help reduce maintenance costs over time. Feature walls can reinforce brand colours without overwhelming the wider environment. Writable surfaces or acoustic panels may also support collaboration and noise control within specific zones.
Ceilings, partitions and glazing influence light distribution and privacy levels. Glass partitions can maintain openness while containing sound. Solid partitions may be necessary for confidential spaces or safeguarding requirements.
Selecting finishes with lifecycle performance in mind strengthens your office refurbishment checklist, ensuring aesthetic choices remain practical and aligned with operational demands.
Planning Technology and Equipment
Technology underpins modern working practices. Integrating infrastructure during refurbishment avoids disruptive retrofitting.
Assess existing systems and determine whether upgrades are required to support growth or hybrid models. You may need to align technology decisions with broader organisational standards.
IT Infrastructure and Connectivity
Reliable connectivity is essential. Structured cabling, server positioning and Wi-Fi coverage should be reviewed alongside layout plans.
Security considerations, including controlled access points and data protection measures, must form part of early planning. Collaboration between IT teams and refurbishment partners reduces compatibility issues.
A structured approach ensures infrastructure supports both current operations and future expansion.
Meeting and Collaboration Technology
Hybrid meetings demand high-quality audio-visual equipment. Screens, cameras and microphones should match room size and usage frequency.
Touchscreen booking panels and integrated conferencing systems streamline scheduling and reduce administrative workload. In education environments, interactive display solutions may enhance teaching delivery.
Incorporating technology into your office redesign from the outset creates cohesive, future-ready spaces rather than fragmented upgrades.
Health, Safety and Compliance
Health, safety and regulatory compliance must be embedded within every stage of a workplace refurbishment. Rather than treating compliance as a final check, it should inform layout planning, furniture specification and contractor coordination from the beginning.
Display Screen Equipment assessments remain a core requirement. Workstations should allow appropriate monitor height, screen distance and seating adjustment to reduce strain. Adequate spacing between desks supports safe movement and lowers the risk of overcrowding. For shared environments, clear guidance on workstation setup encourages consistent use.
Fire safety planning extends beyond marked exits. Review travel distances, alarm points, extinguishers and emergency lighting in line with current regulations. Refurbishment works may alter escape routes, so updated signage and revised fire risk assessments are often necessary before reoccupation.
Accessibility standards also require careful attention. Consider door clearances, ramp gradients, accessible workstations and inclusive washroom facilities. In educational settings, safeguarding and specific sector guidance may influence spatial design and material selection.
Building control approvals, electrical certifications, and documented inspections should be retained for audit purposes. Incorporating these elements into your office refurbishment checklist provides a structured compliance record and reduces exposure to future risk.
Managing the Refurbishment Project
Strong project management keeps the refurbishment controlled from first works to final sign-off. Once specifications are agreed, the focus moves to coordination, sequencing and oversight. Define clear roles at the outset, including who authorises changes, who monitors costs and who approves completed stages. This structure supports transparency and prevents delays linked to unclear decision-making.
Develop a detailed programme outlining each phase, from strip-out through installation and commissioning. Linking milestones to budget tracking provides visibility for senior stakeholders and procurement teams. Regular progress updates, supported by written summaries, maintain accountability across contractors and internal representatives.
Risk planning should sit alongside scheduling. Identify potential challenges such as supply delays, restricted site access or compliance approvals. Recording mitigation actions early helps maintain momentum throughout the project lifecycle.
Minimising Disruption to Staff
Where works take place in occupied buildings, disruption management becomes a priority. Phased scheduling may allow teams to remain operational while specific zones are upgraded. Temporary relocation plans or hybrid arrangements can reduce pressure on core functions.
Clear communication supports continuity. Share timelines, site access changes and safety guidance in advance. Coordinated planning protects productivity while enabling refurbishment works to proceed safely and efficiently.
Preparing for Staff to Move Back In
The period immediately before reoccupation requires structured coordination. While installation may be complete, practical readiness depends on detailed checks and clear communication.
Begin with a formal walkthrough involving facilities, health and safety representatives and project leads. Confirm that all agreed specifications have been delivered, including finishes, fixtures and integrated systems. Testing building services such as ventilation, heating controls and access systems helps prevent operational issues during the first days of return.
Furniture placement should reflect approved floor plans, with correct spacing between workstations and appropriate positioning of collaborative areas. Labelling storage zones, lockers, or shared resources can reduce early confusion. In larger organisations, allocating desks or booking zones in advance supports a smoother transition.
Technology systems should undergo final validation, including login testing, room booking functionality and AV calibration. Providing concise user guidance documents or short briefing sessions helps teams understand new layouts and equipment without disruption.
Clear internal communication remains essential. Share reopening timelines, updated floor maps and any revised workplace policies. A structured handover process reinforces confidence in the refurbishment outcome and sets the tone for a stable, organised return to the refreshed workspace.
Reviewing the Success of Your Refurbishment
Post-occupancy review allows you to measure whether the refurbishment has delivered against the goals set at the outset. This stage of the office refurbishment checklist often receives less attention, yet it provides valuable insight for future planning and budget allocation.
Begin by comparing outcomes against original objectives. If the aim was to improve space efficiency, review updated utilisation data and occupancy patterns. Where wellbeing formed part of the brief, gather structured staff feedback on comfort, lighting and layout. Procurement teams may also evaluate whether projected cost savings or lifecycle expectations are tracking as anticipated.
Consider operational performance across several areas:
Desk and meeting room usage
Maintenance requests and snagging trends
Energy consumption levels
Technology reliability
Staff satisfaction indicators
Many may find that minor adjustments improve performance further, such as repositioning storage or refining zoning. Those buying for education purposes, might assess durability and ease of maintenance after initial term use.
Document lessons learned, including supplier performance and timeline accuracy. This record supports stronger decision-making in future workplace refurbishment projects and creates a clear internal reference point for continuous improvement.
A structured office refurbishment checklist transforms a complex project into a manageable sequence of decisions. By defining objectives, assessing current space, planning layout carefully and integrating furniture, technology and compliance considerations, organisations reduce uncertainty and control costs.
Experienced professional support strengthens each stage, from concept through to installation and review.If you are planning a workplace refurbishment or exploring options for office redesign, Wave Office can support your project from initial consultation through to furniture supply and installation. To discuss your requirements and next steps, contact us and speak with a member of the team.
Finding it difficult to get through your workload without losing concentration or feeling overwhelmed? Try using this technique to help you break your task list down.
The Pomodoro Technique (so called due to the tomato shaped timer used to create the technique) was created by Franceso Cirillo in the 1980's and helps you to divide your work day into manageable chunks. It blocks your working time into 25 minute segments followed by a short, five minute break.
How and Why It Works
Great for helping the mind to stay focused and productive, the Pomodoro Technique helps you to take advantage of the average 25 minute attention span that most people possess. The five minute break helps the mind to stay refreshed and avoid burn-out and fatigue. The break also helps to improve concentration and productivity during the 25 minute working segment.
You can use the Pomodoro Technique to maximise your performance on both short and long task lists.
Shorter Tasks and Lists - A long to-do list of short jobs can seem overwhelming and finding the motivation to organise the list and start work can cause feelings of frustration or overwhelm. Breaking the list down into manageable 25 minute chunks can make the list seem less daunting and help you to start making progress. You will also work faster as you will want to avoid carrying a piece of work over into your next 25 minute block if you can help it. Great for stopping procrastination!
Longer Tasks and Lists - Avoid boredom, frustration and lack of concentration by dividing your list up. Breaking the list down into 25 minute work blocks can keep stress at bay and improve the quality of your work.
How to Put This Technique Into Practice
Find a timer - Either a physical timer or a phone timer will work. A phone timer can be better if you are working in an office with other people as you can set it to vibrate to avoid distracting others.
Use your five minute break wisely - Use this time to look away from your screen to help avoid tired eyes. Get a drink, stretch and try to move around. Keeping hydrated and keeping your blood flowing will also help to keep you refreshed and able to concentrate.
Take a 15 minute break after four timed working segments. Clear your head by going for a brisk walk or chatting to a colleague.
Try applying this technique next time your workload begins to overwhelm you and see how the results help you.
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Struggling to get through the day? You're not alone. Constant fatigue among UK workers is much more common than you might think. So how can we combat it?
Keep Hydrated: Aim to try and drink 2 litres of water per day. This sounds like a lot but can easily be achieved by keeping a bottle of water close by to sip regularly throughout the day. If you're not used to drinking this much, set yourself small goals over a few weeks, slowly building your intake up. You can also try alternating each tea or coffee with a glass of water. This will not only help you to achieve your two litre goal, but also aids in offsetting the diuretic affects of tea and coffee.
Watch Your Caffeine Intake: Try not to drink caffeinated drinks after lunchtime as afternoon consumption can still affect you into the evening and disturb your sleep. If you enjoy hot drinks at work, try to swap to decaffeinated drinks or herbal teas and see if this change helps you to nod off easier in the evening.
Try to Keep Moving Throughout the Day: Movement and physical activity keep your blood flowing which helps to improve concentration and relieves stress and anxiety. Simple activities such as stretching, taking the stairs and walking over to chat to a colleague instead of sending an email, can all help you to keep active over the day.
Snack Regularly: Keep energy levels up and blood sugar balanced by regularly snacking on healthy foods, rather than leaving yourself hungry until your next meal. If you are less hungry at lunch time, you will likely have a lighter lunch, which will combat the post-lunch slump. Nuts and fruit are good options to reach for when you begin to feel peckish as they are full of fibre and omegas to aid digestion and help concentration. Try to avoid sugary treats as the initial energy boost wears off quickly and the sugar crash can end up making you feel worse.
Use The Pomodoro Technique:This technique helps you to break your workload down into manageable chunks and allows you a five minute refresher break for every 25 minutes of work completed. This can help to improve concentration and productivity and avoid mental fatigue.
Watch Your Posture:Bad posture can lead to pain in the neck, back, shoulders and hips. Pains and aches can cause fatigue and bad posture can affect your concentration and productivity. If you need help to achieve a better posture, take a look at an ergonomic chair to help you into the correct sitting position.
Try incorporating some or all of these tips into your work day and see how much improvement is made to your levels of fatigue.
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Can having too many personal items on your desk be a distraction, or can it improve productivity and wellbeing?
Allowing your employees to add some personal touches to their desk and general work area can encourage ownership over the work space and improve organisation and cleanliness. It can also provide employees with a sense of individuality and make them feel valued.
The use of colour in the workplace is known to have a positive effect on productivity and mood. Encouraging staff to use their favourite colours around their desk can bring comfort and a chance to display their personality within the working environment. It can also help to make the workplace somewhere that employees will want to spend time in.
Photos and other small items can also help to improve productivity, as well as creating a sense of pride and homeliness around the desk space. You could also consider allowing staff the chance to choose their own furniture and chairs to suit individual needs and preferences. Even simple choices such as the colour of a desk divider can make employees feel involved and valued.
Next time you plan a refurbishment or require new furniture, why not talk to your employees and find out what they would like from their own personal work spaces, create a plan to try and fulfill their wishes and see for yourself the improvement a simple touch can make.
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Teacherwalls are a bespoke, made to measure, versatile product that help you to make the best use of your available classroom space.
Designed specifically for educational environments, Teacherwalls provide a modern, striking aesthetic and are a practical way to enhance the aesthetic of your room.
With a range of fully customisable features, you can easily build a storage system with great flexibility that works for you and your space.
Choose from a host of modules, including those with multi-use features such as drywipe doors to get the maximum use out of your installation. Teacherwalls can also be used as a practical way to partition classrooms, further enhancing their versatility.
Internal fittings can be specified to meet your requirements and include:
Pigeon Holes
Suspension Filing
Shelves
Pull Out Filing Drawers
Gratnell Trays
Sinks
Retractable Teacher's Stations
Doors can be hinged, sliding or tambour depending on the amount of space you have available and what is most practical for you. The choice of finishes include woodgrain, colour, veneer and drywipe and can be mixed and matched to suit purpose and existing decor.
Lighting, graphics and lettering can also be used to make the wall a focal point or design feature and liven up any room.
For more information about Teacherwalls or to place an order, please call 01293 510553 or send us an email.
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When considering what furniture to buy for your school or college you doubtless already know that you will need something strong and durable that can withstand constant, heavy use. Wear and tear is generally expected and planned for but unnecessary misuse and vandalism is often a problem that can be difficult to control but should be thought about and minimised where possible.
Keeping costs down and finding furniture that will provide good value for money is a delicate balance and can be quite a challenge. It's easy to find cheap furniture but if your priority is cost effectiveness then the cheapest available products are not the solution as they will require frequent repairs or replacement. This doesn't mean that your new furniture needs to break the bank, only that in order to get the most for your money, an equilibrium needs to be found.
Throughout this blog, we aim to help you to plan the most appropriate furniture for your requirements and give you tips on how to make your items last.Plan
Firstly, it is a good idea to observe and consider how your students interact with any existing furniture. For example, do they sit on the backs of sofas, climb over furniture or jump/sit down heavily on existing seating? Are there items of furniture that frequently require replacing and is there a possible alternative to these items? From this you can work out what types of furniture may best suit the intended environment and users, as well as how durable the items need to be.
Another great way to determine which furniture would work for your space is to ask the students themselves. By providing this kind of inclusion, students feel listened to and are more likely to respect the new furniture.
Modular Pieces
Modular furniture is always a great option for high use areas, especially in environments where misuse is a possibility. This is because it is simple to replace a single module and often much cheaper than buying a whole new unit just because part of it is damaged or has been vandalised. Modular furniture also provides great value for money as it has a range of uses and can be easily reconfigured at will to suit many different requirements. In educational areas this is particularly helpful for aiding in dynamic lesson plans or function/assembly seating needs.
Loose cushions and single items of furniture such as small stools are easy to throw around, damage or lose. Because of this, it is generally best to avoid these items where possible, particularly in common room type environments. It is advised that the upholstery of your modular furniture should be dark as it will show less wear and tear and damage from spillages and stains. It's easy to add brighter colours into the space by painting the walls in a washable paint that marks can easily be removed from. The darker upholstery also means that if there is a need to redecorate, the furniture will still tie in with the next colour scheme you choose.
Chairs
Skid base chairs are often a better option than four legged chairs as they are harder for students to lean back and rock on. They are also less damaging to flooring as there are no bungs that can be removed which is what causes the scratching, marking and denting from four leg chairs. The frame of a skid base chair is also sturdier and harder to bend which adds to the product's longevity.
Dining
In dining areas, it is best to opt for hard shell furniture as it is easy to clean and won't stain as easily as upholstered furniture. They type of base you choose for your dining tables is a matter of choice. Four leg frames are generally sturdier and harder to knock/tilt which helps to avoid spillages in busier areas. However, trumpet base tables can fit more students around them as there are no legs to obstruct sitting space. Matt finishes are advised on either base as they show less scratches and marks than silver or chrome frames.
High pressure laminate table tops are a good choice for use in schools and colleges as this finish can withstand scratches, pen marks, heat and moisture. They are also easy to clean which keeps them looking new for longer and provides a hygienic eating & work surface.
Study Areas
It is a good idea to avoid using gas lift chairs in working environments, particularly those that are unsupervised. This is because the gas lift mechanism can be easily broken and the individual components of these types of chairs are easy to separate and damage. Hard shell chairs are a good alternative as they are harder to break and are cheaper to replace if needs be. There are plenty of ergonomic options on the market to ensure that student's well-being is still catered for.
Flooring
Vinyl flooring is quick and easy to clean compared to carpeted areas. However, try to think about what the area you are re-flooring will be used for as a darker coloured carpet may be more appropriate. Vinyl flooring can be easily marked or scratched and it can sometimes be easier to replace a section of carpet than repairing or replacing vinyl flooring.
Hopefully you now have a clearer idea of the type of furniture you require and how you can make the best choices to improve value for money. If you require any further help with your project, please contact us and we will be more than happy to advise on furniture and space planning, as well as any refurbishment work you may require.
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With offices, schools, colleges and universities all beginning to focus more on collaborative working and learning, modular furniture allows you to get the most out of your space and the most out of the people using it.
There are a range of ways that modular furniture can boost morale and productivity, as well as offering great value for money.
Bring a new lease of life and functionality to worn/tired rooms
A really simple way to inject some new life in to a room that may have seen better days is to incorporate some modular seating or tables. Most modular furniture is created with a modern design and available in a range of bright fabrics. The way you choose to configure your furniture can also give the room some personality, as well as offering functionality.
Improve or create a community atmosphere
Due to it's endless configuration options, modular furniture allows groups to sit and work, chat and collaborate together more easily than traditional furniture. People who may not ordinarily get the chance to mix due to the restrictions of non-modular furniture can find themselves bouncing ideas of one another or just generally getting to know their colleagues. This builds a stronger sense of community and boosts morale, as well as offering the opportunity for heightened productivity.
Value for money
Easily replace any damaged part of your modular furniture or simply remove the piece and reconfigure the existing pieces. This way there is no immediate need to replace damaged furniture and you also don't need to pay out for a whole new piece if only one part is damaged.
More use out of one room
In offices, the same room can be used as a breakout room, a meeting room, a room for delivering seminars or talks or as a function room. In schools, teachers have the freedom to create more innovative lesson plans and allow different groups of students to work together.
Improved attitudes
Creating a bright, modern and functional space that caters to a range of requirements can make employees and students feel valued, listened to and invested in, which in turn can boost mood, morale and productivity.
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Gather any loose paper, documents etc and sort into "Working On", "To File" and "Shred & Recycle" piles
Look through old binders and folders - can you throw any of their contents away and re-organise?
Are there multiples of supplies covering your work surface? I.e more than one stapler, hole punch etc
De-Clutter the Inside of Your Desk Drawers:
Empty out any rubbish or recyclables
Put any loose change into a jar, pot or your wallet/purse
Take out anything you haven't used for more than a couple of months
Organise Paper Items and Documents:
Go through current files and documents and sort in order of priority
Try to locate digital copies of the files you are keeping - save a copy on to a memory stick as well as your hard drive and throw the physical hard copy away
Organise Your Filing Cabinet:
Remove any files/documents you are sure that you no longer need
Update the filing system with a proper labeling system that works for you
Place similar or related documents into a folder and then file
Memos, Sticky Notes and Business Cards:
Enter any business card details into your contact software or spreadsheet and then dispose of
Try using digital sticky notes or web-based memo apps
If you prefer to work with paper and pen, keep a small notebook for your memos
Wireless charging uses electromagnetic fields in one device to generate an electrical current in the metal coil of another device, providing the battery of the latter with power. As the electricity is created within the two devices, this method of charging is completely safe and offers a whole host of additional benefits to traditional charging methods.
Apart from not having to worry about forgetting your charging cable (or cables for various devices), there is also no need to worry about fraying or damaging these wires when they are traveling around with you.
Wireless chargers also negate the need to hunt for a power socket and keep low battery disruptions to a minimum.
In the workplace, wireless charging offers another host of benefits, most of them allowing your place of work to provide forward thinking solutions to new and emerging working dynamics.
Creating a more mobile and flexible work space is much easier when you are not relying on power outlets in order to keep work devices charged and running. Furniture can be placed anywhere which allows you to make much better use of your available space.
A clutter and wire free work space helps to keep distraction to a minimum and productivity rates higher whilst providing a more clean and professional look to your office.
Making use of wireless charging technology also future proofs your business' premises. Most future devices will offer wireless charging functions as one of, if not the only way to charge. If these solutions are already integrated in to your office, there will be no sudden panic and decline in productivity when the device market is monopolised with wireless charging functions only.
Whilst older integrated power and data solutions were a practical step in the right direction, wireless charging offers full flexibility. No one needs to leave their device plugged in to the middle of a meeting room table to charge anymore. Instead, they can simply place their phone on a wireless charge point which will likely be strategically integrated close to where they would likely set their phone down on their desk or a meeting table normally.
If integrating wireless charging in to your workplace is something that you are interested in, you can find a range of products listed on our website. Alternatively you can call one of our team to assist you in finding the best solution for your business.
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The reception area is usually the first space people experience when they walk into an office, and that first moment tends to shape expectations almost immediately. Visitors often form a view on how organised, welcoming or confident a business feels before they even speak to anyone.For receptionists, PAs and office managers, furnishing a reception area can feel like a balancing act. The space needs to look professional and reflect the brand, yet still cope with constant use and day-to-day practical demands. Comfort, durability and layout all matter, and so does working within the limits of the space and budget available.There are no strict rules for reception design. Every business has different priorities. Still, focusing on how the area is used in real life usually makes furnishing reception spaces feel far more straightforward and less pressured.
Choose Comfortable and Welcoming Seating
Reception seating plays a quiet but noticeable role in how visitors feel while they wait. If chairs look stylish but feel awkward or uncomfortable, people tend to notice very quickly. Comfort helps visitors relax, especially if they arrive early or appointments run slightly over.It helps to think about how your reception area is typically used. Some spaces see a steady flow of short visits, while others have people waiting for longer periods. In both cases, reception seating should feel supportive and easy to sit in, without looking overly casual.Durability is just as important. Reception seating is used constantly, so fabrics and frames need to handle wear, regular cleaning and frequent movement. Options such as tub chairs, modular seating or individual sofas can all work well, depending on the size and shape of the space. Exploring dedicatedreception seating makes it easier to find solutions designed specifically for high-use front-of-house areas.Things worth keeping in mind include:
Upholstery that is easy to clean and holds its shape
Seat height and depth that feel natural for most people
Enough space between seats so the area does not feel cramped
Well-chosen reception area furniture tends to make the space feel considered rather than rushed.
Selecting Reception Desks and Counters
The reception desk is often the focal point of the space. It is where visitors pause, ask questions and form an impression of how the business operates. From a practical point of view, it also needs to support the person working there throughout the day.A good desk provides enough surface space for screens, paperwork and visitor sign-in, while keeping cables and clutter out of sight. Storage plays a big part too. Practical storage and filing solutions close to the desk help keep the area tidy and calm, even on busy days.Different desk styles suit different receptions. Modular desks allow layouts to be tailored to the available space, without the extra cost of a bespoke solution. High-gloss or illuminated desks often create a strong visual statement, while bespoke desks or refreshed finishes, such as wraps, can help align the desk more closely with brand identity. Purpose-builtreception counters make it easier to strike this balance without starting from scratch.Accessibility should also be part of the decision. Including a lowered counter section supports wheelchair users and anyone who finds standing uncomfortable, and it fits naturally into thoughtful office reception design.
Using Decoration and Branding to Create Atmosphere
Decoration and branding are where the reception area starts to show personality. The aim is not to overwhelm visitors, but to give them a clear sense of the business as soon as they arrive.Neutral colours often work well as a base, helping the space feel calm and easy to maintain. Brand colours can then appear in smaller details, such as upholstery, feature walls or signage, so the reception feels connected to the wider workplace.Signage should feel clear and welcoming rather than formal. A simple logo, company name or directional sign is usually enough. Finishes like wood, metal or textured panels can add interest without making the space feel busy.Display boards can also work well in reception areas, allowing businesses to share key information, achievements or values in a way that feels natural rather than forced.
Designing Layout for Smooth Traffic Flow
The layout has a big influence on how comfortable and safe a reception feels. A well-planned layout helps visitors understand where to go and reduces congestion during busy periods.Key points to consider:
Make entry points clear as soon as visitors arrive
Allow enough space for wheelchair users and those with mobility aids
Keep walkways free from clutter so the area feels calm and safe
Position reception seating so it does not block access to the desk
Place signage where it can be seen without interrupting foot traffic
Good space planning often makes even smaller reception areas feel more open and organised.
Flooring type, Lighting and Finishing Touches for a Polished Look
Lighting is sometimes overlooked, yet it plays a big part in how welcoming a reception feels. Natural light is always worth making the most of, so keeping windows clear and using lighter finishes nearby can help brighten the space.Where natural light is limited, layered lighting works well. Overhead lighting provides general brightness, while accent lighting can highlight signage, artwork or architectural features. This creates a softer feel and avoids harsh shadows.Floor coverings need to cope with traffic volumes and be easy to maintain. Take into account things like slipping if surfaces are likely to be affected by rain or people coming in from the rain. Receptions can be the main access for deliveries as well as visitors; a good design will account for all eventualities. Finishing touches help complete the space. Coffee tables give visitors somewhere to place belongings, while plants, artwork and magazine racks make waiting more comfortable. Even small details, like discreet bins near seating areas, help keep the space tidy and pleasant.If you are unsure how to pull everything together, Wave Office can help guide layout, sensible furniture choices and finishes so the space works day to day, not just visually. A quick conversation through ourcontact us page is often enough to get things moving.
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Having carried out several refurbishments in the past for various Optimax clinics, we were delighted to rise to the challenge of updating their Leicester Clinic. Here's what we did:
We were tasked with providing the Optimax clinic in Leicester with a more modern image and bringing the site more in line with Optimax's corporate branding.
Reception Area
We carried out a full refurbishment from floor coverings and lighting to window displays in order to achieve this goal. Our last job at this Optimax clinic in 2005 saw us installing a reception desk and storage wall which by now was in need of refreshing but that the client found was still meeting their requirements. We managed to update the existing furniture and save our client a substantial amount of money by wrapping the desk and storage wall in white Di-Noc, making it look brand new! We also added the Optimax Logo to the front of the desk to match the branding of the business.
Theater Re-Design
We also redesigned and updated the laser theater, making it into a full operating theater with the installation of a new air handling system. The ancillary rooms also benefited from fresh decor and carpets. All of these tasks were completed to health care standards.
High Praise
After the completion of the refurbishment, the clinic was visited by the Mayor for the grand re-opening who was very complimentary of the new look and feel of the Leicester clinic. We also received high praise from the Managing Director of Optimax who said it was the best clinic they've ever had, on time and under budget.
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We recently carried out an office conversion and refurbishment for a high-end client in a prestigious London area. Here's what we did:
Our client contacted us requiring a refurbishment of their basement office which was currently catering to five members of staff.
In need of updating and with a change of usage planned, our client sent us a brief to turn the basement office into a hot desk area for eight members of staff.
What We Did
We gave the office a modern and practical refresh, careful to keep the room feeling as light as possible due to it's location. Using bench desks for a modern, minimalistic and cost effective finish, we included dual USB and power modules for easy charging and connectivity for users whilst at the desks. Lunar chairs worked to keep the modern feel and ensure the staff are well supported while the breathable mesh back encourages air flow to keep the user cool.
We also made sure that each member of staff had their own personal storage space within easy reach of their desk.
The floor was re-carpeted to complete the refurbishment and we included a barrier mat to help prevent dirt and grease from marking the carpet.
Final Thoughts
After the project was finished our client, Diederik said that "the office is looking good" and that it was a "perfect job".
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Choosing an office chair tends to feel simple at first, yet it quickly turns into something a bit more involved once you pause and think about how long people sit each day.
For many office-based roles, the chair becomes the main piece of equipment someone uses, often for hours at a time. When the choice is wrong, discomfort creeps in, focus drops, and small aches can turn into ongoing issues.
This guide looks at the key office chair considerations worth paying attention to before buying. If you’re looking to juggle comfort, budget and considering any shared workspaces, we can give you clear guidance right here, helping you make ergonomic-first decisions that suit real offices and real people.
Ergonomics and Adjustability
Ergonomics sits at the centre of most office chair considerations, mainly because bodies differ far more than chairs often do. A well-designed chair should adjust to the person using it, rather than forcing someone to adapt their posture around fixed parts.
Seat height adjustment allows feet to rest flat on the floor, which helps with circulation and balance. A supportive backrest, ideally with adjustable lumbar support, encourages the spine to sit in a more natural position during desk work. Armrests also play a part, offering support for the shoulders and upper arms when they can be raised, lowered or moved inwards.
Adjustability becomes even more relevant in shared offices. A chair used by multiple people throughout the week needs to adapt quickly and easily; otherwise, it tends to be set up for one person only. Chairs designed with flexibility in mind usually suit a wider range of body shapes, which makes them a safer choice for growing teams and changing roles.
Comfort and Support for Long Hours
Comfort is sometimes treated as a nice extra, yet it plays a direct role in how people feel by the end of the day. Sitting for long periods places pressure on the lower back, hips and thighs, particularly when the chair does not offer enough support.
Good cushioning helps spread weight more evenly, reducing pressure points that can lead to soreness. The seat should feel supportive rather than overly soft, since chairs that sink too much can cause muscles to work harder to maintain balance. Back support matters just as much, especially for tasks involving screens and keyboards, where people remain seated for extended stretches.
Over time, a chair designed with comfort in mind tends to reduce fatigue. When people are not constantly shifting to relieve discomfort, they often find it easier to stay focused and engaged with their work.
Material Quality and Durability
The materials used in an office chair affect comfort, upkeep and how long the chair lasts. Mesh, fabric and leather all bring different benefits, and the right choice depends on how the space is used.
Mesh chairs are known for breathability, which can feel more comfortable in warmer offices or for people who sit for long hours. Fabric options offer a softer feel and come in a wide range of finishes, though they may need more regular cleaning. Leather and faux leather create a more formal look and tend to wipe clean easily, though breathability can vary.
Durability should not be overlooked. Chairs made with stronger frames, quality mechanisms and hard-wearing materials usually last longer and perform more consistently. Over time, this can mean fewer replacements and less disruption, which makes a noticeable difference in busy offices.
Suitability for Your Workspace Setup
Every workspace has its own layout, and an office chair needs to fit comfortably within it. Desk height plays a part here, since a chair that cannot adjust high or low enough may leave someone working at an awkward angle.
Movement also matters. Some roles involve frequent reaching, turning or moving between tasks, which calls for a chair that swivels smoothly and rolls without resistance. In tighter spaces, the overall size of the chair becomes important, as bulky designs can restrict movement and crowd the area.
Thinking about how the chair works with the desk, monitor and surrounding furniture helps avoid problems later. A chair that suits the full setup tends to feel more natural during everyday use.
Budget and Value for Money
Budget often drives early decisions, though it helps to think beyond the initial price. A cheaper chair may seem appealing at first, yet it can wear out faster or fail to support the body properly over time.
Value for money looks at how the chair performs day after day. A well-made adjustable office chair, used for several years, often costs less per day than replacing low-cost chairs every year or two. There is also the impact on comfort and wellbeing to consider, especially for people who sit for most of their working hours.
Approaching budgets with long-term use in mind makes it easier to justify spending a little more upfront. Many buyers find this leads to fewer issues and better overall satisfaction.
Delivery, Assembly and Warranty Considerations
Delivery and setup are easy to overlook, though they influence how quickly chairs can be used and how well they perform. Professional delivery and correct assembly reduce the risk of faults caused by poor fitting or missing parts.
Warranty coverage offers reassurance, particularly in offices where chairs see heavy daily use. Longer warranties often reflect confidence in build quality, and clear aftercare support makes it easier to resolve issues if something goes wrong.
For people organising purchases on behalf of others, these details help take pressure off. Knowing support is available allows you to focus on choosing the right seating rather than worrying about what happens later.
When weighing up office chair considerations, it helps to start with ergonomics, comfort and adjustability, then look at materials, workspace fit and long-term value. Chairs that support healthy posture and adapt to different users tend to work better in real office settings.
If you are exploring suitable office chairs for your workspace or need guidance on specific requirements, the Wave Office team can help you make a confident choice. You can always contact us for straightforward advice based on how your office is used day to day.
In recent years there has been increasing awareness surrounding the benefits of "Sit/Stand" at work. Many more height adjustable desks are now available on the market and there are also a host of schemes encouraging staff to be more active during their working day.
There are many health and wellbeing issues associated with sitting down all day including:
Issues with weight/obesity
Problems with blood sugar and diabetes
Increased risk of heart disease
Strain to the shoulders, neck and back
Spinal disk damage
Poor circulation in legs
Unfortunately, many of the risk factors associated with a sedentary day can not be offset by exercising after work, although this is still good to do. The only way to combat these issues is to change the way that you work.
You might think that changing your working habits to incorporate standing always requires radical adjustments to your office furniture and comfort levels. This doesn't always have to be the case though. You can start off with small changes and slowly build up your activity levels at work. Here are some suggestions:
Stand whilst taking phone calls
Use the stairs instead of the lift
Have standing or walking meetings
Take a walk during your lunch break or at least try to leave your desk on your breaks
Stand at the back of the room during presentations
Join in on national campaigns such as"On Your Feet Britain"and try to get as many other people in the office involved as possible
Invest in a sit/stand desk and set yourself goals for time spent standing whilst working each day
Where possible consider your choice of footwear - make sure it is comfortable when standing and moving throughout the day
It is important to remember that converting to standing all day can actually pose it's own set of health issues. These can include sore, aching muscles and stiffness and swelling of the legs. This is why it is important to strike a healthy balance. There are a range of chairsavailable that can help to keep your body moving even whilst you are sitting on them which can help to reduce some of the health risks when you do need to sit.
Remember that adapting to a sit/stand work day can take time and you will observe many fluctuations in the amount of time you spend sitting and standing. Eventually though, you will find a pattern that works for you. It is important for employers to remember that productivity can actually increase with the right balance of movement in an employee's day, but that it can take time for people to settle in to a new way of working. As staff will eventually find a rhythm that works for them, everyone should be provided with the ability to be flexible in their routine.
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In the last few years ergonomics has been the number one focus in workplace and furniture design. We've seen chairs that promote good posture and sit-stand desks all becoming prevelant. However, ergonomics is just the starting point in the much bigger picture of employee wellbeing.
There are many factors that come in to play when considering how to improve the physical, mental and emotional health of employees. However, something that has perhaps been overlooked in the quest for a more flexible workplace is privacy and proper acoustics. A recent increase in the trend of open plan offices has seen more and more companies refurbishing their sites to reflect a more accessible and flexible environment. With this being very much the main focus, individual preferences have often been overlooked. Indeed, many offices have been designed on presumptions and trends rather than for the company's unique staff.
What are the statistics?
The University of Sydney found that noise is the number one complaint of employees that work in open plan offices, with up to 60% citing it as a major issue. Evans et al & Sundstrom also point out that noise is probably the most prevalent source of annoyance in offices and can lead to increased stress.
If you consider that most people spend more time working (36%) than they do anything else - even sleeping (32%) - it makes sense to create an environment where as many individual needs as possible are catered for. The open plan office manages to tackle many historic dissatisfactions in the workplace such as lack of flexibility, an inability to freely express ideas and interact with managers and a lack of collaboration with other colleagues. However, most office workers spend 40-60% of their time on concentrated tasks, yet 42% said they had no access to private or quiet areas. This can create serious problems with productivity.
It takes an average of 15 minutes to regain concentration after being distracted by unwanted noise. A worrying example of this finding is that just 5 distractions in an 8 hour working day equates to a 15% reduction in productivity. In other words, in a company of 200 employees, 30 of these people would be being paid to do nothing. Other statistics which highlight the issue of noise in the office include a 32.7% decline in operating income for companies with low levels of employee engagement. However, amongst companies with higher levels of employee engagement a 19% increase in operating income was observed.
How can I remedy these problems in my office?
We are now beginning to see just how important noise levels in the office are, even if they have been overlooked in the recent past. There are however, solutions to the problem, even if you have got an open plan office.
Before looking at the following options, we recommend analysing the way that your staff work. What is important in the way the company works? Try to gather some opinions from the staff themselves. This information may take some time to collect but any decision you make from the data is informed and can only have a positive impact on your bottom line.
Product Solutions
Installing acoustic and sound absorbing products into your work place is a quick and easy solution to end distractions, create some privacy and improve concentration.
Perhaps the most obvious way to introduce some privacy is with floor standing screens. Simple to set up, these screens enable you to create quick meeting or private areas. Some floor standing screens are mobile and some come with options such as a whiteboard top or toolbars. The level of acoustics varies between types of screen, so this solution is a better choice if you are looking to simply add in some extra privacy to your work space.
Desk mounted screens offer much the same as their floor standing counterparts but tend to be shorter and attached directly to the desk. They offer a level of organisation and privacy and can also provide some sound absorption depending on the screen's material.
Office pods can be seen as a cure all for privacy, acoustics and flexible working. Offering excellent acoustics, varying degrees of privacy and excellent levels of flexibility, an office pod is the simplest and most versatile option. Dot them around the office to create quiet and private working havens or group them all in the same area to create a place designated for concentrated work only.
How can storage help?
You may not think it but storage can actually help towards solving privacy and noise problems. Bisley Towers™ offer privacy thanks to their tall profile which can act as a simple divide between desks. This also means that they offer some degree of acoustic value.
Bisley Eyespace™ is a great storage and filing system which manages to look stylish, offer superb functionality and create divides. A great way to add practicality and privacy into the office.
Although Bisley Bite™ doesn't offer acoustics or privacy in itself, it can be used at each desk to complement the use of office pods. Bisley Bite™ is a mobile pedestal drawer unit which slots over the top of any desk. So, when your employees need to move to a quieter area to concentrate, they have all their files with them to facilitate a smooth and practical transition from their desk.
Are there any other options?
The above is a list of a few simple options to consider if you aren't thinking of refurbishing your office any time soon. If a redesign is due, there are a range of materials, layouts and structural designs which facilitate proper sound absorption and privacy. Acoustics and privacy should be mentioned to your project manager at the start of the design process to get the most out of your refurbishment.
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