Last Updated on 6 July 2023 by Editorial Team
As a business owner or manager, you understand the significance of having a workspace that is not only practical but also visually appealing. If you’re looking to achieve a certain goal, then commercial interior design is a discipline that can assist you in doing so.
So in the following article, we’re going to talk about commercial interior design. We’ll cover the basics, including the key elements, benefits, challenges, and current trends. Plus, we’ll give you some handy tips on how to hire a commercial interior designer. What are we waiting for? Let’s get started!
Understanding Commercial Interior Design
Let’s begin by talking about what commercial interior design is. It’s basically the process of designing and creating the interior spaces of commercial buildings such as offices, retail stores, restaurants, hotels and other public spaces. The goal is to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment that meets the needs of the business and its customers.
This involves considering factors such as space planning, lighting, colour schemes, furniture, and decor. So, when it comes to designing for commercial interiors, the main goal is to design a space that looks great, but also serves a purpose. The space should be functional and help people be productive and feel good while they’re there.
Having a commercial space that is well-designed can have a positive impact on various aspects of your business. It can boost the morale of your employees, increase customer satisfaction, and ultimately improve your bottom line.
Characteristics of Commercial Interior Design
When it comes to interior design, there are some key differences between commercial and residential spaces. Designing for Commercial interiors has its own unique set of characteristics that distinguish it from that of residential design.
Commercial spaces tend to be bigger in size, receive a lot of foot traffic, and are more prone to wear and tear. When designing a commercial space, interior designers have to take into account various factors such as ergonomics, accessibility, safety, and branding.
The Role of Commercial Interior Designer
A commercial interior designer is someone who has expertise in creating designs and decor elements for commercial spaces. The designer collaborates closely with the business owner or manager in order to understand their requirements, goals, and budget.
After that, the designer creates a plan for the design that includes things like the colour scheme, lighting, how the space will be arranged, the materials and finishes that will be used, and the furniture and accessories that will be included.
Overall, a commercial interior designer plays a crucial role in shaping the look and feel of a business’s physical space.
Key Elements of Commercial Interior Design
When it comes to successful commercial interior design, there are many factors to take into account in order to create a space that looks and feels just right:-
Colour Scheme
Did you know that colours can have a big impact on how we feel and act? Different colours can affect our mood and behaviour in different ways. Choosing the right colours can make a space feel warm and inviting, but choosing the wrong ones can have the opposite effect and create a negative atmosphere. Commercial interior designers often rely on colour psychology when choosing the perfect colours for a space.
By understanding how different colours can affect our moods and emotions, designers can create a space that feels just right for its intended purpose.
Lighting
Lighting is also a very important aspect to consider when commercial interior design. Having the appropriate lighting can really make a difference in a space. It can create a certain atmosphere, draw attention to the unique features of the architecture and artwork, and even increase efficiency and focus.
Therefore, when designing the lighting plan, a commercial interior designer has to take into account the natural light, artificial light, and the function of the space.
Space Planning
Whenever we talk about space planning, we’re referring to how we arrange furniture, equipment, and fixtures in a way that makes the space as functional and easy to navigate as possible. So, when a commercial interior designer is creating a space plan, they have to take into account the purpose of the space, how people will move around in it, and how easy it will be for everyone to access it.
It’s an important consideration for architects, interior designers, and anyone involved in designing or renovating a space.
Materials and Finishes
In commercial spaces, the materials and finishes used can have a big impact on how long-lasting, easy to maintain, and visually appealing the space is. As a commercial interior designer, you have the important task of selecting materials and finishes that not only look great but also serve a practical purpose.
Furniture and Accessories
Furniture and accessories are crucial elements that cannot be overlooked when it comes to commercial interior design. They play a vital role in creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment that meets the needs of the business and its customers. As a designer, you’ll want to select furniture that not only looks great but also feels comfortable and serves a practical purpose.
It’s important to keep in mind the brand and style of the business when making your choices. Adding accessories like artwork, plants, and decorative objects can really bring some personality and interest to a room.
Benefits of Interior Design
Let’s now talk about the benefits of interior design. Having an effective commercial interior design can bring a lot of advantages. There are several benefits that you can enjoy, such as:-
Improved Productivity and Employee Morale
A well-designed commercial space can really boost employee productivity. This is because it creates an environment that is both comfortable and inspiring, while also being functional. Additionally, it can help to increase employee morale by demonstrating that the company cares about their health and happiness.
Increased Customer Satisfaction
A commercial space that is well-designed can leave a great first impression on customers, make their overall experience better, and even make them more likely to come back.
Cost Savings
Did you know that investing in good interior design can actually help businesses save money? That’s right! By improving energy efficiency, reducing maintenance costs, and increasing the longevity of the space, businesses can benefit from a more cost-effective and sustainable environment.
Challenges of Commercial Interior Design
There are a number of challenges that designers must take into consideration with commercial interior design. These challenges can include:-
Budget Constraints
One of the most common challenges faced in the design of commercial interiors is working within budget constraints. As designers, it’s important to come up with a design plan that is not only effective but also affordable.
Compliance with Regulations
Did you know that commercial spaces have to follow a bunch of regulations related to safety, accessibility, and building codes? As such, it’s important that designers make sure that their design plan complies with these regulations.
Trends in Commercial Interior Design
We’re now going to discuss what’s happening in commercial interior design these days. The world of interior design is always changing and growing, with fresh and exciting trends popping up all the time. There are a few commercial design trends that are currently popular:-
Biophilic Design
Have you heard of biophilic design? It’s a concept that involves bringing natural elements into a space to improve people’s health and productivity.
Sustainable Design
When we talk about sustainable design, we’re referring to the use of materials and practises that are kind to the environment. The goal is to minimise the negative impact that a space can have on our planet.
Essentially, it’s all about creating designs that are environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
By designing with sustainability in mind, we can help reduce our carbon footprint and create a better world for future generations.
Technology Integration
Technology integration simply means using technology to make a space work better and more efficiently. With technology integration, we can achieve better communication, collaboration, and productivity. It’s an important aspect of modern life, and it’s essential that we embrace it to stay competitive and keep up with the fast-paced world around us.
Hiring a Commercial Interior Designer
If you’re a business owner seeking to enhance your space, it may be worth considering hiring a commercial interior designer. They can provide valuable expertise and guidance to help you achieve your goals. When you’re looking to hire a commercial interior designer, there are a few things to keep in mind.
It’s important to find someone who has experience in commercial interior design projects, as they will have a better understanding of the unique challenges and requirements that come with these types of projects. You’ll also want to look for someone who has a portfolio of work that you admire, as this will give you a good idea of their style and capabilities.
Additionally, you’ll want to look for a designer who is easy to communicate with and who is able to work within your budget and timeline.
Finally, make sure to meet with the designer in person to discuss your project and get a sense of their personality and communication style.
By taking these steps, you can find a designer who will help you create a space that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations, whilst ensuring that your project is a success.
The Design Process
The design process for designing commercial interiors involves several steps, including consultation, site analysis, design concept development, and implementation:-
- Programming – The designer meets with the client to determine their needs, goals, and budget for the project.
- Schematic Design – The designer develops a preliminary design concept that includes space planning, furniture layout, and overall aesthetic.
- Design Development – The designer further develops the design concept, selecting materials, finishes, and lighting.
- Construction Documentation – The designer creates detailed drawings and specifications that contractors will use to build the space.
- Bidding and Negotiation – The designer assists the client in selecting a contractor and reviewing bids.
- Construction Administration – The designer oversees the construction process to ensure that the design is executed as planned.
- Post-Occupancy Evaluation – The designer follows up with the client after the project is completed to ensure that the space meets their needs and address any issues that arise.
As a business, it’s important to make sure you have a clear understanding of the process and timeline for your project.
Conclusion
For business owners creating a successful business space, commercial interior design plays a crucial role. If businesses want to create a space that looks great and works well, they should consider the important aspects of interior design.
This includes understanding the advantages and difficulties involved, as well as staying up-to-date with the latest trends. If you’re a business owner looking to design your commercial space, hiring an interior designer can be a great help. They can guide you through the process and help you achieve your goals.
FAQs
How much does it cost to hire a commercial interior designer in the UK?
The cost of hiring a commercial interior designer in the UK can vary depending on various factors such as the scope of the project, the experience and reputation of the designer, and the location of the project.
Typically, interior designers in the UK charge either a fixed fee for the entire project or an hourly rate. The fixed fee can range from £1,000 to £10,000 or more, depending on the complexity and size of the project.
On the other hand, an hourly rate for an interior designer can range from £50 to £200 or more, depending on their experience, reputation, and location. Some designers may also charge a percentage of the total project cost, which can range from 10% to 20%.
It’s always best to discuss your specific project needs and budget with a few interior designers to get an accurate estimate.
What should I consider when choosing a colour scheme for my commercial space?
When choosing a colour scheme for a commercial space, it is essential to consider the brand’s identity, the type of business, and the intended mood or atmosphere. For example, a healthcare facility may choose calming colours such as blues and greens, while a restaurant may choose warm colours such as reds and yellows. It is also essential to consider how the colours will interact with the lighting in the space.
How long does the commercial interior design process typically take?
The interior design process’s length can vary depending on the commercial project’s scope and complexity, the designer’s experience, and the client’s needs. Typically, the design process includes several stages, including consultation, site analysis, design concept development, and implementation. The duration of each stage can vary, but the entire process can take several weeks to several months.
Can commercial interior design help with branding?
Yes, good commercial interior design can play a crucial role in a business’s branding strategy. A well-designed commercial space can reinforce the brand’s identity and values, create a memorable and unique experience for customers, and help the business stand out from competitors. Elements such as colour scheme, lighting, signage, and furniture can all contribute to a space’s branding.
What are some ways to incorporate technology interior design?
There are numerous ways to incorporate technology into commercial interior design. Some examples include installing smart lighting systems that adjust based on natural light, incorporating audio and visual systems for presentations and entertainment, and using digital signage to display information and branding messages. Other examples include implementing touchless technologies such as automated doors, faucets, and dispensers, and incorporating virtual reality and augmented reality to enhance customer experiences.
Need Help With The Design Of Your Commercial Building?
If you require assistance with the design and build of your brand new commercial building, or need help with the re-design or refurbishment of an existing space within a commercial property, then we can help!
We provide commercial design and build & renovation for property owners and landlords, and refurbishment works for commercial tenants.
We provide the complete package for your convenience including interior design, project management, build and fit out, together with the provision and installation of furniture, lighting, air conditioning systems and equipment.
Get in touch and we’ll be very happy to talk you through the services we provide and offer our advice and expertise on commercial design and build.
Call us for a chat on 0161 503 9075, or use our contact form to email us. If you’d like to see what some of our customers have to say about our services, then you can read our reviews on Google.