6 must-have’s for your startup office space

We already know that an office is like an individual, each space has its own unique identity and personality, especially an office space in the startup world. However, these 6 items are the perfect go-to’s if you are setting up your space and are feeling lost as to where to start.

1. Standing desks

We probably spend more than half our day sitting. This includes sitting in a bus or car on the way to and from work; at work for up to 7 hours; at home for dinner and when we unwind. So, it’s no surprise that a lot of people are adopting the growing trend of a standing desk. Studies show that standing desks improve posture and reduce obesity, making the health benefits clear! When designing an office, a standing desk also takes up less space, so if you are working within a small space, they provide additional organizational benefits.

2. Coffee, coffee and more coffee

Jerry Seinfeld says it best: “We want to do a lot of stuff; we're not in great shape. We didn't get a good night's sleep. We're a little depressed. Coffee solves all these problems in one delightful little cup.” So tell us, can you really argue with Jerry?! A coffee machine ideally with an option to make an espresso, cappuccino, latte or whatever your heart desires is a perfect edition to an office, it keeps the team motivated and more importantly, awake.

3. Nap rooms or bean bag chairs

In the startup world, you generally work long hours and from time to time you may need to take a snooze or  breather. Nap rooms or comfy bean bag chairs are a perfect way to unwind so that you can get your second wind!

4. Free lessons

Many larger organizations provide a yearly education budget but newer companies may not have the resources yet to do so. Given that many people who work at startups have the “jack of all trades” mindset there are a lot of cross training opportunities to adapted as lessons! This not only builds community with the company but positions varying people from different departments as leaders, helping them improve their presentation skills and educating their fellow teammates to boot, a win-win situation.

5. Sound isolation or absorption furniture

Did you know that new types of furniture are being created to help absorb sound?! Not all office spaces are perfectly designed to minimize sound and so to keep your team focused and environment quiet, decorative and creative looking items can be added to reduce any echoing and enhance the look and feel of your office.

6. A library

Who doesn’t like libraries and the endless amount of resources they have to offer! Many office spaces have a dedicated library with relevant books in their industry, offering employees an opportunity to indulge and learn new things on their own time without the rush of having to return the book. What we’d love to see next is a music library, now that would take up little space and get a team pumped!

Does your space already include any of these 6 must-have’s, if not we’d love to hear what enhances your space.