So, you’re opening a new office space and are ready to get everything set up. Maybe you’re starting a new business or are extending to another branch. Whatever the reason you’re taking these exciting next steps, it’s important to be prepared.
Every workspace is different, but some items are essential for every office. From assorted stationery to keep your business organised to any special extras to turn your office into a creative hub. Read on to make sure you have everything you need before moving in.
Office essentials checklist
Tick off the below list of office equipment to make sure you’re ready to open your new business space.
- Desks – Office desks are essential for anyone working long hours and using a desktop. They’re also a must for storing all your other office supplies.
- Computers – This is a must for every working space. If you need to research, email or type up your work then you need a desktop or laptop to work on.
- Paper – Even in the digital world of today, every office needs paper. From printing paper to letterheads and business cards, always keep a full supply of paper materials.
- Pens – Whether you’re taking notes, jotting down contact numbers or editing hard copies of your work, every workspace needs pens. Make sure you have a variety of writing pens, highlighters and permanent markets at hand for everyone who works in your office.
- Post it notes – Not every note needs a full sheet of A4 paper. Write down any messages, contact numbers or reminders on a post it notes and stick them anywhere you can easily see it.
- Printers and copiers – You’ll likely need to regularly print materials and documents in your office. Choose a printer with a built-in copier and scanner to save on space and money.
- Filing cabinets and binders – As your business grows and you expand your employee database, you might find you’ve more paperwork and important documentation. Keep everything organised and in its individual place with filing cabinets, ring binders and document wallets.
Items for breakroom
When it comes to creating a welcoming space for your employees, what you have in the breakroom is just as important as what’s at their desks.
- Tables and chairs – Your employees need a place they can sit and enjoy their lunch in peace, without having to eat at their desks.
- Comfortable seating area – Everyone needs time away from the screen, so set up a comfortable seating area with sofas and armchairs for those much-needed breaks.
- Water cooler – A healthy and refreshed workforce makes for a healthier business. Make sure every employee has access to water.
- Cutlery and crockery – From mugs, glasses, plates, bowls and cutlery, your staff need available kitchen utensils to enjoy their lunch and a hot drink.
- Microwave – Some like to bring their lunch from home that needs to be heated up, so a microwave is essential.
- Dishwasher – A dishwasher makes it easy to clean everyone’s used cutlery and crockery at the end of the day.
- Notice board – Having a notice board in the breakroom where everyone spends time is an effective way to communicate upcoming events and useful resources.
- Tea and coffee – Everyone deserves a hot drink to keep them going throughout the day. Make sure your break room is regular stocked with tea, coffee, milk, sugar and sweeteners.
- Fridge – A must for the communal milk, your employees will also need a fridge they can store their food in until lunchtime.
Items needed for a home office
If you work from home, many of your essentials will stay the same. You’ll still need paper, pens and a computer, as well as most other office space staples. However, some items will likely differ than those in a large office space.
- Printer and copier – You’ll likely still need to print documents and scan through to your clients. But as it’ll only be you in your workspace, choose a smaller product and avoid industrial scale.
- Notice board – It might not have authorised Health & Safety posters or company announcements, but a notice board is a great place for you to stick reminder notes. You can also use it as inspiration for your work.
- Cutlery and crockery – You’ll likely have some at home already, but you won’t need nearly as much as a public office would. Keep yours to a minimal so the washing doesn’t pile up.
- Filing cabinets and binders – Even when you work from home, it’s still important to stay organised. Invest in a small cabinet drawer and organise your paperwork into designated folders.
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Some items are essential to every workspace, especially those that are newly opened. Make sure you have everything ready for your office so you and your team can see great results.
For more tips on setting up the perfect office space, visit our main blog.
