Sustainable Office Fit-Outs
Sustainability is an increasingly important topic in the commercial property sector, and for good reason. As businesses strive to reduce their environmental impact, the office fit-out process plays a crucial role in achieving these sustainability goals.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps for an eco-friendly office fit-out, sharing top tips and ideas to help make your workspace more sustainable. At Making Moves, we are experts in matching businesses with their dream London offices, prioritising values like sustainability throughout the process. Whether you’re planning a complete overhaul or a minor refurbishment, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
What is a Sustainable Office Fit-Out?
A sustainable office fit-out refers to the design and implementation of an office space that minimises environmental impact while enhancing employee well-being and productivity.
Traditional fit-outs often contribute to significant waste, high energy consumption, and poor indoor air quality. On the other hand, sustainable practices emphasise eco-friendly materials, energy efficiency, and a healthier work environment—leading to a lower carbon footprint and happier employees.
How to Make your Office Fit-Out More Sustainable
To help you navigate the fit-out process, our expert agents at Making Moves have put together some practical steps for a more sustainable office renovation.
Step 1: Set Your Sustainability Goals
Before embarking on your fit-out journey, define your sustainability objectives for your projects. Consider what you want to achieve and which standards to adhere to. This could include:
- Eco Certifications: Go for standards like BREEAM or SKA Gold for sustainable spaces (more on these next!)
- CSR Alignment: Make sure your fit-out reflects your business’s commitment to corporate responsibility.
- Waste Reduction: Plan ahead for reducing waste during the project.
Just like any big business goal, keep these objectives SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to track progress effectively.
Sustainability Accreditations & What They Mean
Accreditations are key to making sure you’re on the right track, so here’s a quick rundown of the main ones:
BREEAM: Short for the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, BREEAM is a widely recognised sustainability standard for buildings and infrastructure.
SKA Rating: Developed by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), this rating is focused on fit-out projects, with Gold, Silver, and Bronze levels showing how your project stacks up in terms of sustainability.
WELL Certification: The WELL Building Standard Certification is a rating system focused on human health and wellness within buildings. It assesses workplaces across 10 key concepts: Air, Water, Light, Thermal Comfort, Sound, Materials, Nourishment, Movement, Mind, and Community.
Step 2: Appoint a Project Manager
Designate a project manager to oversee the office fit-out process. This individual will coordinate efforts across various teams, such as the sustainability team, design consultants, and contractors, ensuring that everyone is aligned with the project’s overall sustainability goals.
The project manager will keep stakeholders updated with regular progress reports and find ways to save costs through sustainable choices, helping the organisation meet its environmental goals without compromising its budget.
Step 3: Design a Sustainable Office Interior
Designing a sustainable office interior is all about creating a space that minimises environmental impact while enhancing comfort and productivity. Start by choosing eco-friendly materials, such as reclaimed wood, recycled metal, or low-emission paints, which reduce waste and improve indoor air quality.
Consider modular furniture that’s durable and adaptable, allowing the space to evolve with your team’s needs rather than requiring frequent replacements. Incorporating natural light and greenery not only saves on energy but also boosts employee well-being by creating a brighter, more pleasant workspace.
These thoughtful design choices help create a future-ready office that supports your sustainability goals, making a positive impact on the planet and providing a productive, inspiring space for your team.
For more insights, check out our guide to designing a sustainable office space.
Step 4: Choose Eco-Friendly Materials
When selecting building materials for a sustainable fit-out, prioritise options that minimise environmental impact and support longevity. Reclaimed wood and recycled metals are excellent choices; not only do they prevent new resource extraction, but they also bring character to your space.
Look for materials certified by trusted environmental standards, such as FSC-certified wood, which ensures responsible forestry practices. Low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and adhesives improve indoor air quality by reducing toxic emissions, creating a healthier work environment for your team. Additionally, consider materials that are both durable and modular so they can adapt to evolving office needs and reduce waste over time.
By avoiding traditional materials with high carbon footprints, such as certain plastics and concrete, and opting for renewable, recyclable, or biodegradable materials instead, you’re helping to reduce your office’s overall carbon impact and creating a sustainable, welcoming space.
Step 5: Maximise Energy Efficiency
To implement an energy-efficient office fit-out, start by integrating renewable energy sources like solar panels to reduce reliance on grid electricity. Use energy-efficient LED lighting and maximise natural light through large windows to lower energy consumption and create a welcoming workspace.
Additionally, consider energy-efficient HVAC systems with occupancy sensors to adjust output based on real-time needs, minimising power usage. Automated controls for lighting and HVAC, alongside ENERGY STAR-rated IT equipment, can also significantly reduce energy use, creating a sustainable office environment that benefits both the planet and your operational costs.
Step 6: Create a Sustainable Office Culture
As you embark on your office fit-out, it’s the perfect time to lay the groundwork for a culture of sustainability. Start by implementing clear recycling and composting systems, and educate staff on energy-saving habits like shutting down computers and turning off lights in empty rooms. Establish a sustainability committee or ‘Green Team’ to lead initiatives, such as monthly challenges for reducing waste or energy use, and offer incentives for eco-friendly actions.
Support sustainable commuting by providing bike racks or incentives for greener travel. Hosting workshops on sustainable office practices can further inspire employees, embedding sustainability into the workplace culture.
Legal Considerations for a Sustainable Fit-Out
When embarking on a sustainable office fit-out, it’s essential to understand the legal framework that governs building practices and environmental standards. Familiarise yourself with local regulations regarding waste management, energy efficiency, and sustainability certifications.
Compliance with laws such as the Energy Act or local building codes can help you avoid penalties and ensure that your fit-out aligns with best practices. Additionally, consider consulting with legal experts to navigate contracts with suppliers and contractors, ensuring they adhere to sustainable practices and contribute positively to your overall sustainability goals.
How to Choose a Sustainable Office Fit-Out Partner
Managing office fit-outs alongside your daily operations can be a daunting task. That’s why many companies turn to external partners for assistance. When selecting a sustainable fit-out partner, it’s essential to choose a company with a proven track record in eco-friendly practices.
An experienced partner will provide valuable insights into the latest green technologies and practices, such as energy-efficient systems, sustainable sourcing, and waste reduction strategies.
At Making Moves, our extensive experience in the London property market allows us to guide businesses in making informed, eco-friendly choices tailored to their specific operational needs. Our network of trusted contractors and suppliers ensures that every aspect of your fit-out adheres to best practices, from the initial design to the final implementation. In addition to sustainable fit-outs, we provide a comprehensive range of services—from office searches to dilapidations and disposals —ensuring we can support you at every stage of your move.
How Making Moves Helped Depop Fit Out Their Eco-Friendly Office
Depop came to us with the challenge of upscaling their office to accommodate their rapid growth while staying true to their brand values of sustainability.
Following a comprehensive workplace consultancy exercise, we established a brief with Depop which helped determine their ideal hybrid footprint, leading us to identify a partially fitted property in Farringdon that matched Depop’s industrial aesthetic. This character-filled building champions their commitment to sustainability.
Our full-service expertise enabled a smooth, eco-conscious transition to their new headquarters within budget. The fit-out incorporated reclaimed furniture, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable materials, aligning perfectly with Depop’s values and operational needs. This collaboration not only supported their growth but also reinforced their dedication to eco-friendly practices, creating a workspace that reflects their mission and enhances their brand identity.
Need Help with Your Eco-Friendly Fit Out?
Creating a sustainable office fit-out requires careful planning, a commitment to eco-friendly practices, and the right partnerships. At Making Moves, we can handle every aspect of your sustainable fit-out journey, ensuring you achieve your sustainability goals while creating a functional, inspiring workspace.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your eco-friendly office fit-out and turn your vision into reality!
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