The 2nd project that was highlighted in the Back on the Grid blog post was the update of a business that is located in a beautiful, old Victorian building. The goal was to transform the Reception area and several side offices to a new professional standard for the staff as well as the clients that visit on a daily basis. Here is a small sampling of the BEFORE photographs:
As you can see, the most recent design work had been completed circa 1980 with a color palette of dusty mauve, mint green and soft blue. The wallpaper had started to show wear so it was time to remove it to add some neutral, calming background colors that would become the perfect backdrop for the bold, new window treatments and selected artwork.
Rich Colored Window Treatments
The great thing about this project was that there was an abundance of artwork throughout the building that was available to choose from – works that had been created for the owners by clients and special people in their lives. These pieces also had something in common…they were representations of locations in and around the city and they blended well with the existing prints and photographed art that were already in the office spaces.
One of the finishing touches to the Reception Area was the addition of live plants which added softness and life into the room.
This office saw a major transformation due largely to the change on the walls, proving that a coat of paint can really do wonders. It is not until you complete a project like this that you realize how much the office environment affects the clients.
In this case, so many customers have remarked about how warm and inviting the space has become. On another level, it now conveys a strong level of professionalism that is solidified by the great service provided by the staff. Visually, we knew we had met the goals for this office space but the validation of the project came through the invaluable and positive feedback from the clients and staff members that were so moved by the changes.
If you want to update an office space, whether in-home or otherwise, and have put it off because you think it will be too costly to redo the whole thing, you may want to consider these 5 low budget/high impact ideas:
- A fresh coat of paint on the walls & trim. Color can change the whole personality of a room and can be completed in a short amount of time.
- Bring in interesting artwork. This can also be a place to infuse color and add interest to a room. Consider relocating pieces of art that you already own.
- Incorporate live plants (or very life-like replicas).
- Change out dated window treatments. The curtain and valance options are endless and offered in many different price points today.
- Consider re-arranging the existing furniture to increase flow, rhythm and balance within the space. A harmonious space is one that you will love to go to work in and your clients will appreciate more than you know.
For a complete wrap up of this project (including some great AFTER photos), check out the video summary on the newly designed website: www.parkerhouse-designs.com
Food for Thought: Think about the places you visit (dentist/doctor offices, spa, hair dresser, auto dealership, storefronts etc.) on a regular basis. Which places welcome you in? What is it about them that draws you in further (colors, scents, sounds, decor)? What about the place makes you feel good? Make a list of your favorite things and try to find a way to incorporate them into your office redesign.
Parker House Designs 