9 smart ways to build sustainable office design
Companies in London are increasingly adopting sustainable office design to reduce their environmental footprint and boost employee well-being. From cutting down energy consumption to using eco-friendly materials, there are many ways to lower operating costs and enhance brand reputation.
But how can you implement these changes effectively? This guide explores practical, eco-conscious strategies that help create a greener workspace without compromising aesthetics or functionality.
8 smart ways to green-transform your office
A green office transformation is one of the key priorities in many corporate workplaces today, and this change is being pushed from the top down. Here are eight smart ways to achieve it.
Reduce energy use with bright lighting and appliances
One key feature of an energy-efficient workplace is the use of LED and/or solar-powered lighting systems. These options consume less power because they allow for automatic adjustments based on occupancy or natural light.
Beyond lighting, you would want to upgrade to energy-efficient appliances, like low-energy printers or refrigerators.
Go paperless & cut down on office waste
A shift towards a paperless workflow allows teams to collaborate digitally and reduce paper dependency. This often begins by ditching old data storage methods. For essential documents, choose recycled paper. You can enable double-sided printing to minimise waste without disrupting operations.
You can also replace printed notices with digital signage. The goal is to reduce clutter and make updates more sustainable.
Add indoor plants to create a healthier workspace
Most offices have a few indoor plants, like the Snake Plant and ZZ Plant, next to employee workstations. This trend is not merely by coincidence.
If you are to bring some indoor plants (1) to the workspace, choose species that are resilient to low-light conditions and require minimal maintenance.
Set up a simple and effective recycling system
An effective recycling system features clear paper, plastics, electronics, and glass sorting stations. You can reduce waste disposal costs in your business by partnering with local recycling services that offer bulk collection.
Make sure to use labelled bins and educate staff to ensure proper sorting. Your choice of office supplies (go for recyclable products) also helps maintain an affordable and sustainable system.
Choose eco-friendly office supplies and furniture
When designing eco-friendly offices, choose desks and chairs made from recycled wood or metal. These materials often last longer than cheaper alternatives. You want to purchase these office supplies from certified green vendors like those approved by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning products also contribute to healthier indoor air.
Designing with sustainably sourced materials
The first step when designing for sustainability is to opt for sustainable materials. For instance, you can choose flooring options like bamboo, cork, reclaimed wood, or recycled tiles, which are durable and renewable.
You can also use FSC-certified or reclaimed wood for furniture such as chairs, tables, and cabinets. This approach lowers your business’s carbon footprint and aligns with corporate sustainability goals.
Switch to green cleaning and office maintenance products
Every office building must stock cleaning products for everyday use. This makes this step easy and practical towards sustainability. Always choose non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning supplies that are safe for employees and the environment.
Similarly, choose eco-friendly materials like recycled wood or natural stone for office maintenance and opt for paints with low VOCs (volatile organic compounds) to improve air quality.
Choose an office space Committed to sustainability
Here, you want to lease your office space from property owners or managers who subscribe to sustainability values. Selecting an office space designed with office sustainability in mind makes it easier to meet your goals. This often means the office space has energy-efficient systems and waste reduction initiatives.
The benefits of a green office
A sustainable office space boosts employee well-being and positions your brand as a forward-thinking, responsible business. Investing in sustainable workplaces reduces environmental impact and lowers long-term operational costs:
- Cost savings: Implementing energy-efficient systems, such as LED lighting and smart thermostats, can cut operational expenses by up to 20%, according to the UK’s Carbon Trust.
- Enhanced corporate reputation & brand value: Sustainable office practices showcase long-term thinking, attracting positive stakeholder attention and strengthening brand trust, as highlighted by the UK Green Building Council.
- Employee productivity & well-being: Natural lighting and sustainable office designs improve comfort and engagement, fostering a healthier and more motivated workforce.
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Start transforming your office's space
With the growing demand for eco-conscious environments, finding a space that supports your green goals is key to long-term growth. This is where The Langham Estate in Fitzrovia stands out.
With flexible office spaces tailored to modern business needs, The Langham Estate provides unfurnished, furnished, serviced, and fully fitted options. Whether a startup or a growing enterprise, this vibrant West End location connects you to a thriving business community, excellent transport links, and diverse shops and restaurants.
With the growing demand for eco-conscious environments, finding a space that supports your green goals is key to long-term growth. This is where The Langham Estate in Fitzrovia stands out.
With flexible office spaces tailored to modern business needs, The Langham Estate provides unfurnished, furnished, serviced, and fully fitted options. Whether a startup or a growing enterprise, this vibrant West End location connects you to a thriving business community, excellent transport links, and diverse shops and restaurants.