Both small and large businesses have come to realise the vast benefits associated with open plan office spaces over the traditional style cubicles of the past. Open plan spaces eliminate the need to create individual work partitions, thus making them more cost-effective solutions. In addition, they increase employee interaction and cooperation, while also promoting a much more relaxed working environment. Of course, one of the setbacks of an open plan arrangement is the absence of clearly defined areas for more focused work, collaborative work, relaxation, break times and meetings. Loud office noises are now firmly recognised for their negative connotations with employee productivity, creativity, and wellbeing. Zoning is a clearcut solution to counter these issues. It involves the use of partitions to divide spaces accordingly without the need for a major office reconstruction. A Grid system Think of zoning as a grid system. Its purpose is to divide and organise the working space in a way that optimises productivity, efficiency, and collaboration without making the space too claustrophobic. Each zone is designed to cater to specific tasks, work functions and necessary leisure time without impacting on the remaining office space. Overall, it’s about creating a well-structured and conducive environment for various work-related activities. Zones can be created using different materials or furniture for maximum flexibility, these can include acoustic partitions, shelving, structural frameworks, and office pods. Many of these options are designed to be lightweight and manoeuvrable, perfect for the constantly evolving workspace. They also allow your space to evolve alongside your business needs as most of these zoning options are reconfigurable, therefore infinitely rearrangeable. Which zones should I have? There’s no hard or fast rule to your zoning choices. In fact, the specific zones in your office will depend on the needs, size, and sector of your organisation. Generally speaking, the most common office zoning areas tend to focus on quiet, high concentration zones, collaboration zones, breakout zones and meeting zones. Quiet zones are for complex tasks that require privacy. Soundproofed solutions include acoustic office pods for anything from one-person upwards, shelving options in a wide range of configurations, wood planters, and visually awe-inspiring partitions that are as attractive as they are functional! Collaboration zones are spaces aimed at encouraging team collaboration, brainstorming, and often equipped with modular seating arrangements such as benches, stools and comfortable armchairs (even sofas can feature!). Acoustic panels, office pods or freestanding modular structures can be a terrific way of segregating this (often) noisy area from the remaining workspace. Meeting and conference zones work on the same basis as those of collaboration zones with the use of soundproofed solutions to prevent noise from escaping. Freestanding acoustic solutions are ideal for creating walls for meeting spaces without compromising on aesthetics. (Welcome back, noisy meetings!) Breakout zones are becoming increasingly important in the office space for providing, relaxing areas. Zoning options tend to benefit from modular dividers that enable the use of biophilia to really help employees unwind. Incorporate comfortable modular seating arrangements that comes with the freedom of agility to ensure its suitability in any contemporary workspace. To reiterate, there’s no set rule as to how you organise your office zoning. It really depends on the individual requirements of your workspace. If video calls are low on the agenda, for example, you might opt for a quiet area that is more than sufficient. If, on the other hand, video calls and conferences take up a sizeable proportion of your employee's working day, or the nature of your work requires confidentiality, you might wish to invest in a more permanent fixture such as an acoustic office pod to ensure the necessary soundproofing. How will zoning benefit my office space? The importance of zoning lies in benefits such as enhanced productivity, improved collaboration, reduced distractions, employee satisfaction and wellbeing, clear organisation, and optimal space utilisation. Once your workspace is clearly divided into efficient working zones, you can then begin to focus on modular furniture pieces to really transform your space! Zoning is an essential aspect of workplace design and management and can ultimately contribute to the success of your organisation. How can Fluid help? Fluid offers companies the flexibility and confidence to create exceptional office experiences for their people. We are all about agile, flexible workspaces that can be quickly and cost-effectively reconfigured to meet the ever-evolving demands of any business. Are you ready to inject productivity into your workspace? Then look no further. Please get in touch with a member of the Fluid team and we’ll be delighted to discuss your exciting plans.

In a world where sedentary lifestyles have become the norm, from TV marathons to desk-bound workdays, the impact of excessive sitting cannot be underestimated. This issue is particularly pronounced for those immersed in the Monday-to-Friday, 9-to-5 desk job routine. However, the human body isn't designed for prolonged sitting… Here are 5 reasons why you and your team should be standing more in the office. 1. Standing is proven to improve physical health Sitting for prolonged periods has been linked to a range of health concerns, spanning from obesity to cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal problems. On the other hand, embracing standing, particularly through the use of height adjustable desks, offers an array of benefits, from encouraging better posture and engaging core muscles to promote blood circulation, all of which contribute to improved overall physical well-being. Standing also offers a pathway to toned muscles and enhanced posture. Standing requires the activation of a variety of muscle groups, including those in your core, legs, ankles, and feet. This natural engagement fosters muscle strength and stability, particularly beneficial for sustaining a healthy posture and averting injuries. Product: Hero Height Adjustable Desk Another notable advantage of integrating standing into your routine, is its potential to alleviate back pain, a prevalent complaint among UK workers. Shockingly, 4 out of 5 adults in the UK have experienced back pain at some point. However, studies provide a solution – incorporating intermittent standing breaks facilitated by standing desks into your daily regimen has been shown to significantly mitigate the risk of back pain. A substantial 54% of workers, as reported by juststand.org, noticed a reduction in upper back and neck pain with decreased sitting time. Moreover, standing constitutes a weight-bearing activity that bolsters bone health. As your bones bear your body's weight, this practice contributes to the maintenance and enhancement of bone density over time, fortifying your bones and safeguarding against issues like osteoporosis. In essence, standing acts as a multifaceted catalyst for improved health, offering a foundation for enhanced posture, reduced pain, and fortified bone structure. 2. Standing promotes better mental health The relationship between sitting and mental health is a pressing concern, as studies have associated prolonged sitting with an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Luckily, studies have been able to attribute standing to increased levels of mood and energy levels. In 2018, a study revealed that the Stand More At Work initiative in Britain not only led to a reduction in employees' sitting time but also resulted in heightened work engagement and a notable decrease in overall anxiety levels. Product: Hop Height Adjustable Desk The link between sitting duration and mental health risks is evident, with prolonged sitting for six or more hours during the workday increasing susceptibility to anxiety and depression. The antidote lies in muscle engagement, which triggers the brain's release of mood-enhancing chemicals through increased blood and oxygen flow. The cognitive benefits of standing are further underscored by improved cerebral nourishment due to enhanced blood flow, cementing the connection between physical posture and mental well-being. In the balance between sitting and standing, the evidence is clear: standing offers a proactive approach to cultivating positive mood states and bolstering cognitive resilience. 3. Standing fosters greater team collaboration Standing in the office not only contributes to improved mood but also better collaboration, particularly within open-plan workspaces. Standing invites spontaneous conversations and interactions among colleagues, breaking down barriers that might exist when confined to chairs. This improved social exchange nurtures a sense of community, bolstering teamwork and camaraderie in the workplace. Standing during meetings and group sessions also offers a less formal and intimidating environment compared to traditional seated gatherings. This informality paves the way for candid discussions, establishing a shared purpose and a stronger bond among team members. The absence of seating hierarchies levels the playing field, fostering an atmosphere of equality that encourages active participation from all individuals, irrespective of their roles or titles. Furthermore, the heightened energy levels associated with standing result in more engaged and alert participants during collaborative endeavours. This increased attentiveness translates to more innovative and thoughtful contributions, enhancing the overall quality of collaborative work. 4. Standing boosts focus and productivity Remarkably, a significant 71% of employees reported heightened focus upon reducing their sitting time by merely one hour. Embracing a standing posture while on the job not only enhances mental alertness but also yields amplified productivity and improved concentration. Product: Arc Acoustic Zoning By introducing the option to stand, employees gain the flexibility to alternate between sitting and standing, injecting diversity into their daily work routine. This transition not only staves off monotony but also sustains higher engagement levels throughout the workday. Natural movement and postural shifts made possible by standing play a pivotal role. These movements counter physical discomfort and restlessness, redirecting employees' attention toward the discussion rather than their discomfort. 5. Standing creates a creative and energetic environment Standing while brainstorming or working on creative tasks might unlock fresh perspectives and novel concepts. By introducing movement and varying postures, you can foster increased blood flow that might in turn bolster cognitive function, including creativity. The inclusion of movement has consistently proven to be a catalyst for augmenting employee enthusiasm and job satisfaction. Though it may seem basic, standing offers an often overlooked solution, boosting alertness and providing a natural energy boost. Taking short activity breaks every hour has been shown to increase energy levels significantly. This is supported by a remarkable 87% of employees who experienced increased energy levels after using a standing desk You may now be a convert to the ways of standing at work - welcome! But the question now is how do we incorporate more standing in our day? One of the easiest ways to make a switch in your office today is with height adjustable desks. They’re incredibly useful as they allow you to switch between sitting and standing positions with ease. When working with others, instead of sitting in a conference room, you could opt for standing or walking meetings. This encourages movement and can lead to more dynamic discussions. Take phone calls while standing or walking around. This not only keeps you active but also helps to make the conversation more engaging. If you want to keep your calls confidential or to create a quieter office setting, phone booths offer a quick escape from ambient noise with acoustic privacy. Finally, make your space work for busy office life. Furniture can be used to create agile, flexible workspaces that can be quickly and cost-effectively reconfigured to meet the changing demands of businesses. Ready to improve productivity in your workspace and create a more inviting atmosphere? Contact us here or give us a call today - 020 3916 5005

If you think that an office pod merely serves as a quirky and contemporary aesthetic to an office space, you’re only half right. While they do offer a certain je ne sais quoi that traditional office furniture simply can’t compete with, their dashing good looks also extend to… office friendships! Did you know that an office meeting pod, while often thought of as an escape from the surrounding workspace, can actually improve employee relationships? No, we didn’t think so, and that’s why we’re about to explain how and why they make that possible. Flexible movement Office pods might seem isolating but they’re anything but! They’re actually aimed at offering employees’ control over the way they work. If there’s a last-minute need for a gathering of minds, meeting pods provide the perfect space to brainstorm ideas. Greater relationships are forged when ideas are formed collaboratively; bouncing ideas off each other and more flexible thinking! When you have a flexible and functional space, it draws more employees to it as an exciting hub of activity. The perfect social alcove that provides a great space to build genuine relationships. Your team will be best buddies in no time! Quality social integration While remote working carries a whole heap of benefits, one thing that it doesn’t do is allow social interaction. Forging strong inter-personal relationships, and friendships, can be difficult from behind a screen in your home office! There’s nothing quite like being physically present in an upbeat working environment, it promotes productivity like no other place when all is well. But therein lies the key. ‘When all is well!’ Oftentimes, social engagement and interaction can be challenging in open plan offices when there lies a fear of causing too much disruption, or the feeling of distracting others becomes overwhelming (Take note - self-consciousness is a major creativity killer!). Meetings in particular can become quite animated at times, and rightly so! That’s what they’re all about, after all! An opportunity to freely debate and brainstorm to make improvements to the business as a whole. Believe it or not, removing the self-consciousness by holding a meeting within an isolated pod can make the office more social, not less. The acoustic nature of meeting pods ensures that sound is kept within the meeting, as well as keeping external sound out. That means that a meeting can be as rowdy (within reason!) as required, without causing any disruption to the remaining office. Having the team feeling comfortable in this free space increases opportunities to connect and collaborate with others. Private meetings There’s often a need for a private meeting space that allows for confidential work-related matters or, on occasion, a discussion relating to conflict or a personal issue. In a busy office, it’s quite natural for staff to clash from time to time. There’s no problem with that whatsoever, it shows passion and dedication. But how you resolve it is important. Difficult conversations need to be constructive, and private meeting pods make that possible. In a quiet, acoustic space, employees are given an opportunity to bring up any concerns they’re facing while being offered safety and reassurance in return. When an employee can speak freely and openly to a manager about sensitive issues, stronger working relationships are formed. In fact, difficult conversations can often be the most fruitful, providing a wonderful opportunity for relationship growth. Moving forward, the question you need to be asking yourself is, are you keen to put working relationships first? If we were to tell you that a ‘Friends and Happiness in the Workplace’ survey found that 57% of participants agreed that a close friend in the office makes work more enjoyable with productivity and creativity also increasing, would that convince you? The statistics show that managers should look to foster an environment where friendships or, at the very least, good working relationships can blossom. In turn, this will lead to greater rewards for the business as a whole. What meeting pods do Fluid recommend? If you’re looking to make your office space more social, office meeting pods are the ideal investment. Meeting pods like Framery 2Q and Cube L boost collaboration by containing noise and reducing the stress associated with rowdy disruptions. With that, small or large teams can freely collaborate and build strong working relationships. Small pods like Busypod L are great for promoting genuine relationships by offering the necessary space for more private meetings or sensitive discussions. If you’re looking to promote collaboration and entice workers back to the office, we recommend social meeting pods where noise levels are no longer an issue! If you’re keen to encourage good working relationships amongst your team, perhaps it’s time to think about renting or buying an office meeting pod. Feel free to get in touch with a member of the Fluid team and we’ll do all we can to help.

Clerkenwell Design Week brings together the best of the design world, showcasing the latest trends, furniture innovations, and creative concepts. As a leading provider of contemporary furniture solutions, Fluid Furniture makes it a priority to attend CDW each year. The event allows us to stay up to date with the industry's latest developments, draw inspiration from the showrooms, and gather ideas to offer our customers exceptional design solutions. Here we present our top 10 picks from Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, featuring a diverse range of products that we love. Allt Team Tables: The Allt team table immediately stands out to us with its ability to create meaningful destinations in the contemporary workplace. Made from solid European oak, Allt delivers the robust and durable performance demanded from large-scale collaborative tables, yet, thanks to a structure that’s been consciously reduced to the minimum, succeeds in having a light footprint. Allt offers diverse options for busy modern workspaces including, desk height or poseur height, cable-managed leg frames, a wide range of top finishes, and optional central shelving with task lighting. Muuna Office Chairs: The new Muuna office chair will fit perfectly into any stylish office or home office. Unlike other office chairs, no controls are visible at first glance. The chair is equipped with a self-mechanism that prepares all the settings itself. The Muuna boasts this sleek finish whilst still including key features such as a height-adjustable back, swivel base, and weight-activated tilt resistance. With its fully upholstered design, the Muuna office chair combines comfort and aesthetics for a seamless seating experience. Kobel Office & Workspace Tables: Kobel is a collection of design-led office and workspace tables that combine impeccable craftsmanship with innovative design. Available in two distinct options: a dining table height or a high table height, Kobel allows you to create a workspace tailored to your specific needs. Both options are available with either a Gantry overhead frame for a modern touch or a standard table frame for a classic aesthetic. Select a full metal frame or opt for wooden legs, giving your table a personalised touch that reflects your style and taste. Twyst Side Tables: Twyst is a stunning collection of side tables, coffee tables and bistro tables designed to elevate modern workplaces' ambience. The range has been crafted with an eye for aesthetics, with a sleek metal frame featuring a twisted effect that adds a touch of elegance to any room. The table range is designed to meet the needs of contemporary workplaces, and it offers an excellent solution for break-out spaces and lounge areas. Q6 Module Zoning Seats: Q6 offers a wide array of components that enable the creation of a workspace specifically designed to foster creativity. It allows for the development of inclusive and collaborative areas, as well as the customisation of private zones to accommodate individuals who prefer a quieter environment. With its extensive range of modules and finishes, Q6 provides limitless possibilities for configuring workspaces that cater to various work styles and preferences. These qualities allow your workspace to grow and evolve with your business and are the perfect solution to the modern work environment. Balance Chairs: The Balance collection comprises of four chair variations: a work chair, a wingback, a high back, and a low back, along with a coordinating footstool, ideal for informal meetings and luxurious lounge and reception areas. With its inviting and cosy appearance, Balance seamlessly facilitates transitions from a relaxed recline for contemplation, to a comfortable seated position for reflection. When it’s time to focus the Balance chair also offers an upright posture for concentrated work. A wide range of finishes allows you to effortlessly match the aesthetic of your workspace while indulging in the comfort of moulded foam seats. Mews Office Meeting Pods: The Mews landscape habitats are designed to fulfil the needs of the modern workplace. The Mews pods enhance the ergonomics of your space through air quality, temperature, and lighting to create habitats that improve the quality of work, connection, and collaboration. As remote and hybrid working trends continue to shape the business world, office meeting pods like Mews offer a remarkable solution and provide a versatile space for a variety of working patterns. Awnings For Privacy: The innovative design of Awnings offers a subtle yet effective solution for creating privacy in open-plan office spaces. Acting as a "soft visual cue" they establish layers of privacy while maintaining a light and intuitive touch. Awnings serve as a physical indicator, signalling to others that a conversation or discussion is in progress and requires permission to join. Available in both freestanding and wall-mounted options, they provide flexibility in placement. With a wide range of finishes to choose from, including fabric, cord, and slat options, Awnings can be customised to match the desired aesthetic and functional needs of any workspace. Campers & Dens Adaptable Pod Systems: Campers & Dens revolutionise interior architecture by offering more than just a pod system. This unique demountable system transforms the built environment and can adapt to the evolving needs of organisations. The range of pod and awning range caters to different group sizes, accommodating from 2 to 8 people. With integrated seating and desking options, Campers & Dens provide a complete solution for a functional workspace. Additionally, the system offers customizable finish options, allowing organizations to personalize the aesthetic to align with their brand and style. Organix Module Seating: Organix exemplifies the essence of organic, curved forms, robust craftsmanship, and a sense of lightness, aligning perfectly with the needs of our modern era. With its broad selection of modules and finishes, complemented by the sleek sled frame base, Organix presents uniquely proportioned seating that caters to those all-important moments of recharging or conversation with a good cup of coffee in hand. Pushing Design Boundaries: Clerkenwell Design Week 2023 presented an abundance of creative and inspiring furniture designs. Fluid Furniture's top 10 picks from the event showcase the industry's commitment to innovation, functionality, and aesthetics. These carefully curated products demonstrate the ever-evolving nature of modern furniture design, offering a variety of options to suit different spaces and design preferences. Whether it's the Kobel table’s versatility or the Twyst Side Tables’ sculptural beauty, each selection embodies the essence of exceptional design. As a company passionate about providing cutting-edge solutions, Fluid Furniture is thrilled to share these remarkable products with our customers to both rent and buy and continue pushing the boundaries of contemporary furniture design. Find out more about Fluid furniture today: https://www.fluidfurniture.co.uk/

In the wake of the pandemic and the subsequent trend in remote and hybrid working, office pods are definitely making their mark on the business world! Most office pods provide acoustic properties which means that they can be utilised for a number of varying working patterns. This benefit deems them a superb investment for any forward-thinking business. Optimal privacy Despite the ever-growing trend in large, open office spaces, it’s fair to say that they aren’t particularly conducive to peace and quiet. And that’s where acoustic office pods really come into their own. When a member of the team needs a bit of privacy to attend to a phone or video call, or simply give a task their complete focus, a pod enables the perfect acoustic retreat. Due to their in-built, soundproofing qualities, workers can complete all matter of tasks with no interruptions, and no noise disruptions from chatter or ringing phones. Just complete focus! Ultimately, that means less stress and greater productivity from your workforce, and optimal ROI for you as a business. Team collaboration and meetings There are numerous occasions when team members need to come together to brainstorm and collaborate. It’s not ideal when they’re conscious of making too much noise (and the remaining workforce won’t thank them for being too disruptive). A strategically placed soundproofed meeting pod provides the ideal place for a team to discuss their ideas freely. Offices of old tended to comprise of just one central meeting room which greatly limited access, that’s why newer and improved office models have found more innovative methods of enabling collaboration when needed. Now, when a bit of elevated noise is anticipated, teams can head to the acoustic pod and discuss to their hearts content, keeping the noise both in and out. Flexible spaces A pod can be whatever you want it to be! Need to make a private call, the phone booth is ideal. A 1pm Zoom with a client? Pop into the Cove. Last minute customer meeting or a candidate interview? Do it in style and comfort. Depending on your personal requirements, you can choose acoustic pods for anything from 1-person setups and duos, to a 10-person, you can even choose between sitting and standing and advanced ergonomics for comfort. The ideal solution is to have one of each to allow for solo and group tasks, but that’s entirely up to you and your business needs. There’s also the flexibility and choice of configuring your pod to suit your own space. Most office pods, particularly acoustically treated pods are available in a vast array of colours, designs, and styles to suit you existing décor. Portable and cost-effective Office spaces are changing by the minute and it’s hard for us to keep up with the latest ‘must-have.’ There’s one thing that won’t be changing, however, and that’s the need for privacy. Pods are ideal for businesses that are constantly growing and evolving as there’s no need for costly construction work to take place. Regardless of any office configuration or relocation, you’re always guaranteed to have a portable space that can travel with you. When you consider these points, you can see how pods are worth the investment. There’s no need for an expensive office overhaul to implement walls and boundaries when you have the longevity of a portable space. Impress! On a final note, acoustic pods are sublimely impressive. Your workforce will enjoy the improved office space, your clients and customers will be left with a great impression of you, and new candidates will undoubtedly do a double take! Why choose FluidSpace? FluidSpace™ offers companies the flexibility and confidence to create exceptional office space experiences for their people. It does exactly what it says – it uses furniture to create agile, flexible workspaces that can be quickly and cost-effectively reconfigured to meet the changing demands of businesses. FluidSpace has been supplying a vast number of office pods of all different shapes and sizes to organisations across the UK for a number of years. Now, we’d love to discuss your business needs! Get in touch today

Why you should be providing diverse working environments to your employees With an estimated 1 in 7 people in the UK thought to be neurodivergent, businesses must be aware of how to support the neurodiversity of their employees. Neurodivergent is an umbrella term that describes people whose brain functions in a way that means they learn, process and experience the world differently from what is considered ‘typical’. Neurodivergence can encompass a range of conditions including Autism, Attention Deficit Disorders, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, and more. Neurodivergent people often have incredible skills that make them an asset to the workplace like strong attention to detail, honesty, or innovative thinking. However, in a world that has largely been designed by and for neurotypical people (those who have brains that function similarly to most of their peers), neurodivergent people often face barriers that can make daily life harder, leading to stress and burnout. As an employer, you have a duty to make reasonable adjustments to support employees who need it. When businesses go above and beyond to create a supportive working environment, and design spaces inclusively, everyone can benefit no matter their neurotype. Read on to find out how you can create a more inclusive workplace for neurodivergent people… Understanding Sensory Input One of the most important considerations when adjusting your workplace to accommodate neurodivergent people is sensory input. Many neurodivergent people can become overstimulated by their environment due to stimuli overwhelming the senses. In the workplace, this can mean that stimuli you can sense through touch, sound, sight or smell can become too intense making it difficult to process the information you are receiving, leading to emotional or even physical discomfort. To combat these issues you should consider all of the senses and have a discussion with your employees about what would be most helpful for them. Visual To assist those who struggle with orientation, provide simple signage with clear graphics and colour coding. Include a neat spacious layout to make navigation simpler. You should also try to break free from visual monotony by avoiding too much repetition in the design and making it easier to identify your surroundings. Similar techniques can also be useful for those with organisational difficulties. For example, clearly labelled storage solutions, the use of tools like whiteboards to visualise tasks, and giving clear and direct instructions can all help. Busy patterns and bold colours can be overwhelming for some neurodivergent people. Instead, opt for décor with low-contrast patterns or block colours in muted tones. Another key visual consideration is lighting, with flickering or bright lighting often being reported as an issue. To address this, opt for soft LED lighting which creates a more relaxing atmosphere and causes less eye strain than traditional office lighting. The most ideal option is lighting with various settings that can adjust the luminosity of the light to suit personal preference. Depending on the individual, they might like to opt for spaces with lots of natural lighting. However, keep in mind that every neurodivergent person is different and may find that strong sunlight can be problematic. In this case, use plain blinds that block out the light effectively – curtains or blinds that throw patterns can still cause distress. Aural A loud, bustling office can be an incredibly overwhelming place causing distraction and discomfort. To reduce the cacophony of multiple phone conversations and meetings happening at once, it’s worth investing in office phone booths and office meeting pods. You could also help those who are sensitive to auditory stimuli by choosing soft furnishings with fabrics that absorb noise to make the space quieter and less echoey, and in turn easier to process. Another common cause of stress cited by neurodivergent people is the hum of electrical equipment. Be mindful when choosing appliances, opting for a quieter option where possible, and be considerate about where they are placed. It could be worth setting them up to turn off completely when not in use, not only creating a calmer atmosphere but also saving on electricity. Many neurodivergent people need to withdraw and have some privacy to help prevent or recover from overstimulation caused by socialising with others. For these moments, privacy booths placed away from busy areas can be a haven of peace and quiet. Tactile Soft and smooth textures can provide a source of comfort and grounding for neurodivergent people, while rough and scratchy textures can often be unpleasant. Just be sure to communicate with your colleagues to find out what textures they prefer. Some neurodivergent people like to ‘stim’, this is where they repeat behaviours to self-soothe or simply because it’s enjoyable. The textures around them can be a big part of that, for example, fidgeting with small items or stroking a smooth surface like bamboo can be relaxing. As well as the feeling of space, some neurodivergent people might need to be able to move around the space to stay engaged and comfortable and do their best work. Height adjustable desks for example could be a great way to cater for those who need to change position frequently. Or zoning can offer a welcome change in the environment needed when things start to feel stagnant. Other considerations As an employer, it might feel difficult to cater to everyone’s different needs, as one person’s access requirements may be the complete opposite of someone else’s. Solutions such as rented furniture could be a useful option in this case – this might be a cheaper and more environmentally friendly way to cater to people’s needs and change up the environment to work for your team as employees come and go. Another useful solution is to offer hybrid working. Some neurodivergent people can use up a lot of energy just from starting the day – getting showered and dressed, making lunch, and taking the bus for instance. They can find themselves exhausted before the workday has even begun. Working from home can help conserve some of that energy as well as reduce the number of people in the space, in turn, making it less overwhelming for those who are there that day. Ultimately, to make your workplace accessible for neurodivergent people, it’s important to have regular conversations and understand that each neurodivergent person is different and may have different needs to each other and on different days. Be open and patient, and you’ll soon start to see that your team will flourish. The world of work is changing for the better to be more inclusive, and by making some simple adjustments you can help the workplace thrive. As a company passionate about providing cutting-edge solutions, Fluid Furniture offers a wide range of innovative products that can help you create a more inclusive workplaces. Find out more about Fluid furniture today: https://www.fluidfurniture.co.uk/

Any business that wants to stay ahead is constantly seeking ways of improving. Increasing productivity and driving growth are firmly at the top of the agenda, but to genuinely succeed, a working environment needs to appeal to all members of a workforce (both incumbent and future), of varying ages, genders, skillsets and abilities. The right space management can optimise your space usage and, lower costs. Poor or incorrect space management will increase overheads and decrease the efficiency of your workforce. So, how can you measure ROI when it comes to a refit? Consider your working space Office space management is a lot more than choosing what colour to paint the walls. You need to delve in a little deeper and consider the impact that the office space itself has on its users. Work patterns have changed and continue to remain flexible. For you, that means stepping back and gaining a better look at the overall picture. Are a considerable proportion of your staff working remotely nowadays? Taking on a hybrid approach? If so, it could well be that you require less overall space than you think, or you might want to utilise the space using the innovative design that comes with flexible offices and agile working, i.e. acoustic pods, collaboration spaces, meeting and breakout areas, and so on. In the preliminary stages, it’s important to establish whether you need a full refit, or can simply maximise the space that you plan to spend most time in. Once you’ve established this, you can expect ROI. Productivity A sure-fire sign of a successful office design is by examining productivity. A good, flexible office layout should serve your workforce well, thus increasing wellbeing and productivity. If staff are becoming jaded and wanting to spend more time working remotely, ask yourself whether it might be related to a stagnant working environment. Prior to your refit, consider whether you have wasted areas that are uninspiring and impacting negatively on productivity. Do you have, or need sufficient areas for private work? Are there collaboration spaces for team meetings that won’t impact on the rest of the office? Would your team benefit from a breakout area that takes them away from their desks for a short while to recalibrate? Productivity will come naturally when you address the needs of your workforce and design your fitout in keeping with this. In turn, you can guarantee a good ROI. Different spaces For your workforce to work to the best of their ability, they need the right amount of space and different working areas. You don’t want a cramped office, but neither do you want excess space that’s both unnecessarily costly to you and distracting to workers. Consider factors such as noise – is excess noise distracting your team and compromising their productivity? If so, look at incorporating specialist office furniture such as private acoustic office pods for essential phone or video calls, or team meetings. They’re also great for temperature and acoustic lighting which all contribute to mood and energy levels. Office furniture plays a huge role in getting the best out of your team, so a good arrangement of seating options from ergonomic chairs to comfortable sofas will provide something for everyone, and every task. Staff retention If you’ve noticed a rise in staff turnover, it’s time to ask yourself how you might be contributing to their decision. It’s perfectly natural for a business to lose staff from time to time, but if it’s becoming a common occurrence, it could well be time to address the cause. Have you considered the overall office temperature? Lighting? Aspects like these impact on wellbeing and , despite sounding trivial, can actually have a bearing on both physical and mental health. When you manage your office space well, you’re giving employees the right tools to do their jobs more efficiently and more creatively. There are plenty of studies demonstrating that employees working within modern, flexible offices are less likely to leave their jobs, not to mention that your layout can attract or deter new candidates! A well-designed and maintained office with good access to technology is one of the most desired aspects of an office space. In fact, many successful office spaces provide desks with power points to allow for modern hotdesking options. The more desks or areas that provide these, the more easily staff can place themselves anywhere to plug-in and access their workload. Simply put, it’s a matter of convenience, and with that comes greater job satisfaction. Losing staff and having to frequently recruit is both time-consuming and costly. Get it right from the start by future-proofing your workspace, and your staff retention will vastly improve. That’s how you ensure you’re getting ROI. A final word ROI isn’t straightforward and requires a great deal of forethought. The best advice we’d give is to consider the working patterns of your workforce and use your space accordingly. Once you’ve crossed that bridge, you can establish how office furniture can help with noise, lighting, temperature control and creating an overall uplifting office environment that boosts productivity. It always helps to work with industry professionals that have vast experience in office fit-outs and can assist you in planning your refit. That way, you can guarantee that you’ll be getting ROI and not giving yourself an unnecessary financial expenditure. FluidSpace can talk you through your office fit-out and ensure you make the right decisions from the start.

Office furniture is an integral aspect of any office space. It moves beyond mere functionality (particularly in the modern era!) and plays a vital role in the look, feel and identity of any office design. High-quality and aesthetically pleasing furniture doesn’t come cheap, but it’s not something that we recommend you skimp on! For that reason, making the decision to rent office furniture can be a much more commercially viable option. And it can even help protect the environment! Encourages business growth Office spaces are changing rapidly, and businesses are becoming more flexible by the day. The joy of subscription-based office furniture rental schemes is the support they offer for maximum growth. You can comfortably free up capital whilst ensuring you remain up to date with the ever-growing demands of your business and workforce. Growth can also relate to the necessary tools required by any workforce such as reconfigurable systems, acoustic booths, or private pods for video calls. As your business grows, your furniture can easily evolve to suit your employee needs. Works for every budget Not every business can afford luxury furniture, but with today' modern flexible office design, uncomfortable furniture just won’t cut it. More than ever before, employees have high expectations from their employers, and a flexible design that boasts comfortable, attractive, and agile (often ergonomic!) furniture is now a requisite. Rental office furniture provides you this very luxury without the need to part with an expensive lump sum. There’s even the option to increase and decrease quantities of furniture at the touch of a button. Overall, your office furniture can be a low monthly cost as opposed to a high capital investment with zero return. Greater flexibility Buying office furniture doesn’t always allow you the freedom and flexibility to make long term decisions. If there’s one thing that the pandemic taught us, it’s that the future of is unpredictable. We saw businesses downsizing to accommodate for remote and hybrid working, and a vast number of individuals choosing to seize the opportunity to depart their existing jobs and set up new businesses. In either circumstance, rental furniture offers tremendous benefits as rapid change can be accommodated at no cost. If you’re a startup business aiming to conquer the world, rental office furniture is the way forward! With rental office furniture, you also have the added benefit of trying and testing to see what really works in your office space without having to future-proof your design. If you suddenly find that your employees are struggling to find a productive collaboration space, you can incorporate an intelligent desking solution with ease. Or perhaps the seating isn’t quite working for every body type – upgrade to ergonomic seating that has been extensively researched to meet optimal comfort. Sorted! Improved productivity Furniture is a major asset in terms of contributing to the comfort, culture and work ethic within any office space. Going for the cheaper furniture option might seem like a winning strategy but poorly made, uncomfortable furniture directly impacts employee motivation, creativity, well-being and productivity. If you’re on a tight budget, we’d highly recommend that you rent rather than buy cheap furniture. While it’s perfectly feasible to find pleasant-looking furniture that complements your environment, you can’t compromise on comfort, function, durability and overall practicality. Try not to forget that your team (and yourself possibly!) will be using this furniture every single day. If they’re winning – you’re winning! Using an office furniture rental service helps to remove some of the stress caused by having to do it all yourself. We have curated catalogues of top-quality office furniture with a view to helping simplify the selection process. And with our rental service, you’ll be able to upgrade or downgrade your furniture whenever you need, helping you remain flexible with the changing needs of your business. FluidSpace has launched FluidSpace Flex™- a highly adaptable office furniture rental service that helps organisations to grow. We have a wide range of workplace furniture solutions available on short-term rental periods and long- term leases to help you meet the ever-growing demands of your office space. Please feel free to get in touch and we’ll happily discuss your options.

How furniture design can entice workers back into your workspace. While flexible working patterns have become a saviour in many ways for employees, the benefits of remote working have become just a bit too appealing. For businesses, it can be quite a push to get employees back into the office. With a third of employees stating that they’d quit if asked to return to the office on a full- time basis, the struggle is real. There’s no replacement for real life collaboration and in- person interaction, so it’s become quite the tug-of-war to gain some control of flexibility patterns whilst ensuring that the workforce retain a high level of job satisfaction. Entice your team back with an office design that they can’t resist being a part of. Multi-use spaces First word of advice; ditch the traditional office layout and bring your workspace to life by transforming the environment into one that is more human-centric, agile and collaborative. While you absolutely-do-not-need any construction work or a massive refurb, the structure of your office design needs to cater for every employee and their individual requirements. That means a variety of individualised spaces so employees can choose where they want to work throughout the day. You can’t put a price on the value of office furniture such as office pods and zoning furniture for creating smaller spaces where building office partitions might be challenging. While the remaining workforce are hard at work, office pods can be used for collaboration, team meetings, private phone or video calls, or simply some solitude for more focused work where soundproofing is essential. Add a wide range of s eating options from height adjustable desking to poseur height collaborative benches equipped with power so that staff can move freely around the office. Flexibility equates to freedom, so providing an array of agile furniture choices eliminates that humdrum ‘office feeling’. Turn the daily grind into a riveting lifestyle that exhilarates any workforce. Wellbeing focus Human beings are social creatures (whether they choose to believe it or not!) and benefit greatly from interaction. Breakout areas are great for enticing your team back to work as they provide a bit of escapism, a good natter and a soothing cuppa! (Something stronger after hours, perhaps!) A breakout area is the one place that allows you artistic license, so dare yourself to be bold and incorporate bright colours and eye-catching prints to bring tired walls to life! With noise being one of the biggest stress-triggers in an office, soundproofing is a must. Acoustic furniture can come in many forms including modular systems, booths or acoustic pods. They’ll allow your workforce to block the world out for a while and relax in a mini haven of tranquillity. If you want something quirky yet functional, try a soundproofed design feature that can bring new life to open spaces. Look after the wellbeing of your workforce and the rest will follow. Comfy furniture If you’re looking to replicate the comfort associated with remote working, you might think you’ve got a tough task ahead. You haven’t! Office furniture has come on leaps and bounds, and Resimercial furniture that takes inspiration from the home, has become quite the trend thanks to the evolution of flexible working. Ergonomic chairs provide optimal comfort whilst keeping aches and pains at bay, while collaboration or breakout areas can benefit from beautifully crafted armchairs and sofas that employees can simply sink into. Incorporate height adjustable standing desks for moments when workloads are high. They’re a great way of adjusting body positions after being sedentary for long periods of time. Top tip! Allow natural light to flow where possible, incorporate biophilia to your hearts content! The more homely the office feels, the more enticing it’ll be to your team. Have we tempted you? We hope so! Investing in attractive and functional office furniture is highly cost effective. You’re choosing quality over quantity and making smart choices. A well-planned and intelligent workspace will promote creativity, collaboration and wellbeing, and it’s the greatest option for getting your workforce back into the office. FluidSpace office furniture is cost-effective with options for both purchase and rental subscriptions. Struggling to get your workforce back? Let the team at FluidSpace help and its child’s play! We’d love to hear from you, so please get in touch.

Our place of work has a profound impact on our wellbeing. In fact, stress is the most common work-related illness in the UK and, unfortunately, has been gradually worsening with the aftermath of the 2019 pandemic combined with the current cost-of-living crisis. While there are a number of office-based factors that contribute to a highly stressed workforce, a cluttered office space is often cited as contributing factor, doing little for concentration, creativity and productivity. Overcrowded desks, noise pollution, colleagues in close proximity and excess clutter do not a healthy and organised environment make! Believe it or not, the solution to this predicament lies in simplicity - a stress-free environment that created with intelligent office spacing and insightful furniture choices. Add in some ample office storage to keep clutter at bay and you’ve got the start of a more productive and empowering working environment. Simply put, cleanliness equals productivity. Let’s look at a few tips for keeping your office space clutter-free. 1- Consider your office requirements The first step in cleaning a cluttered office is addressing where the issue lies. Ask yourself what the clutter in your space actually is, and you’ll realise it’s a build-up of items that have been re-allocated/cast aside for future use. Are your team ever going to use them or are they holding onto them for the sheer sake of it? Decluttering your office space involves analysing the space you have available and considering how well-utilised it is by your workforce. Is there a section of the room that remains unused? Does everyone flock to one area at break times? Perhaps everyone likes the desking setup by the open window? Once you’ve established the most popular uses within your office space, and the most commonly sought-after spaces, you can start to reorganise to create a more functional environment with the office furniture that facilitates these needs. You’ve identified what your team need, and want, to use, now you can start the declutter! If you haven’t used something for several months, the likelihood of you ever needing it are slim. Maybe you need to ditch a few of your unused chairs and invest in a comfortable sofa for staff to take some time out, or invest in new stylish office storage solutions that allow you to keep important items at hand without cluttering up your new space. Simply reassessing your workspace should give you clear and simple actions that you can deliver to start your journey of decluttering your space. Your furniture choices will help you achieve those actions in a stylish, yet functional way. 2- Space for everyone Traditional office layouts have become a thing of old for good reason. Closed plan structures lack innovative office furniture, cohesive modern design and restrict employees to work in limited areas. It’s easy to see how clutter builds up in these smaller, cut off areas. Small, cramped, allocated desks leave a lot to be desired! Open plan, flexible offices provide a wide space that is available to everyone. That means, no allocated spaces or personal clutter in one space but a wide range of spaces for different people with different working requirements. A universal cloakroom and break room, a relaxation spot with a neat array of magazines…the possibilities are endless. With a flexible set up, staff are less inclined to bring unnecessary items into the office as they can access everything they require at work. You’ll also find that your office design can be a catalyst to a clutter free environment as your workforce will enjoy their new spaces and take more pride in keeping them tidy and accessible to the rest of the team. 3- Tidy desks There’s nothing worse than a cluttered desk. It does little for productivity and serves as a deterrent for the ‘clean area, clean mind’ mantra. Under-desk storage solutions are a terrific way of keeping pens, papers and documents out of the way and can also be a great place for those sneaky snacks and sandwiches that keep finding their way to the surface! It’s at this point that we ask if you have a breakout area, and if you haven’t, why not? Breakout areas are the ideal solution for separating work from break times (as well as elevating employee wellbeing to new heights!) while putting an end to that unnecessary clutter! We could go on… Why not enforce a ‘no-eating-at-desk-policy’? You’re ensuring that food and drink items remain firmly in the breakout area without cluttering the desk area. Encourage your employees to store reusable cups and cutlery at work and you’re also doing your bit for sustainability! It’s also worth noting that eating at a desk is often synonymous with a busy workload which offers little in the form of wellbeing. By delegating food and drink breaks to your break room, your employees are gaining valuable time out to reboot their energy levels. (If, on the odd occasion, a working lunch is required/desired, introduce a benching arrangement that moves staff away from their own desks. The time remains productive, just in a casual but delegated area!) 4- Functional office storage We’ve all seen the images on Pinterest and Instagram; the minimalist office with clinical furniture and a scattering of foliage here and there. While it’s a lovely thought, it isn’t realistic, and once you’ve got a full workforce inhouse, the clutter can really start to mount up. If you’ve got a whole load of office-related ‘stuff’ that needs a home, abandon the new yucca plant you’ve got your eyes on and consider an inventive and quirky storage option that looks as great as it functions. Create a seamless industrial look within the office for a less formal look. Relic storage looks stunning whilst being an ideal solution for storage (You can even put your yucca on top of it!). How about a two-in-one solution? Collaboration meets storage! Snugglestor offers an impromptu seating/meeting/relaxing area that can break up storage units or come with storage options above and below the alcove? Innovative and flexible storage space that can be utilised for a comfortable sit down! That’s multitasking for you! 5- Personal storage The majority of your employees will have personal belongings. Coats draped over chairs, bags on the floor, drinks on the desk, the epitome of a cluttered office! If you want to unsee this picture, the only option is to provide personal storage space. Lockers are a great solution for the evolution of shared working spaces, particularly with the rapid emergence of hot desking and hybrid working. Whether popping in for a couple of hours or spending the day, locker cabinets are a versatile solution for employees that need somewhere secure for their personal storage. If you want a personal option to represent your brand, the HotLocker system provides that element of individuality. Tech-enabled personal storage spaces allow agile workers to assign themselves a locker using their phone and a central self-service terminal. As well as ensuring that personal belongings are safely stored away, they provide a great selling point for your office space. Bonus tip- Cable management Tangled, messy cables are an office’s worst nightmare. Aside from being difficult to navigate and a potential trip and fire hazard, poor cable management is an eyesore that does little to encourage a calm mindset. If you’re already deeply embedded in a sea of tangled wire, the only solution is a mass detangle and the implementation of cable tidies to offer some semblance of organisation. However, a better modern solution exists by choosing furniture with integrated cable management systems. For example, choosing height-adjustable desking that offers intelligent cable management options can create a visual, physical and mental boost to the working practices of your team. Try a standard desking arrangement to complement any contemporary office while providing a wide range of cable management accessories. If an ergonomic desking option is more suitable, cable management is a given as well as additional options for integrated storage. After a standing desk? Fear not, there’s even an option to keep staff on their toes without tripping on hazardous wires! Once you’ve made your mind up that sub-standard cable management is a no-go, you’ll find an array of office furniture options that serve to counter the issue from the outset. A final thought… While it can be nigh on impossible to attain the perfect flawless office space, there are endless benefits to having an office detox from time to time. This doesn’t need to be a huge operation, and it can be a great opportunity for team bonding and wider buy in from your employees to your vision of a decluttered space. A semi-regular de-cluttering session means that you and your team get to work in a healthy, happy environment that aids wellbeing, creativity, and productivity. It's also a great incentive to maintain tidiness and save more time for socialising on your monthly de-clutter session! If you’re not in the position to invest in any of our recommended office furniture pieces, but want to instantly benefit from some of the ideas and options we have outlined above, don’t forget we offer a full rental option that allows for greater freedom with no commitment. Ready to implement a clutter-free office with sheer simplicity? Please get in touch with a member of the Fluid team and we’ll be happy to help.

In today's fast-paced business world, companies are constantly seeking innovative ways to boost productivity, foster creativity, and create a sense of belonging among employees. One effective strategy that has gained significant attention is the integration of social spaces within the office environment. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of creating a social space in your office and how the right furniture choices can help you transform your workplace into a hub of connectivity and inspiration. Fostering Collaboration and Communication: A social space acts as a catalyst for collaboration and communication among employees. By offering an environment where colleagues can interact informally, share ideas, and engage in meaningful discussions, businesses can unleash the power of teamwork. Human beings are social creatures and thrive off interaction with other humans. Breakout areas create spaces for people to mix and create those "watercooler moments" that breed innovation and success. As team members form stronger bonds and gain a deeper understanding of one another, they become more motivated, engaged, and aligned, resulting in an overall performance boost for the business. The selection of the right furniture plays a crucial role in creating social spaces that foster collaboration in the workplace. By choosing adaptable furniture pieces, employees are empowered to make the environment their own to suit their collaborative needs. Boosting Employee Well-being: Creating a space for your team to rest within the office demonstrates a company’s commitment to well-being and mental health. Social spaces provide employees with an opportunity to take short breaks together, recharge, and connect with their colleagues in a relaxed setting. The importance of rest in the workday is not to be underestimated with 59% of employees saying more breaks would improve their work happiness, and 43% saying it would boost their personal happiness. With studies into happiness and productivity showing that workers are 13% more productive when happy, it’s clear to see the positive impact that these spaces can have on your business. Selecting furniture that promotes well-being and togetherness provides employees with an environment that supports their physical health while enhancing their overall mood, satisfaction, and work performance. Incorporating biophilia into social spaces can also be a powerful way to improve the environment for employees. By stylishly integrating elements of nature with furniture designed to incorporate living plants, natural textures, and organic materials, the space becomes more calming. Nurturing Creativity and Innovation: Nurturing creativity and innovation are crucial for businesses to stay competitive and thrive in a competitive market. Social spaces within offices play a significant role in cultivating an environment that fosters these qualities. By providing dedicated areas designed for collaboration and idea sharing, businesses create a physical space where employees can come together, regardless of their departments or hierarchical positions, to exchange thoughts, perspectives, and innovative concepts. The relaxed atmosphere allows individuals to let their guard down, promoting a sense of safety that encourages risk-taking and out-of-the-box thinking. Employees feel more comfortable expressing unconventional ideas and challenging existing norms, leading to breakthrough innovations. When it comes to designing social spaces to encourage creativity, consider a more playful approach. Using dynamic designs and fun themes that align with your business, you can create an environment that sparks inspiration, enhances productivity, and creates a talking point outside of the office. Cultivating a Positive Company Culture: A social space plays a vital role in shaping a positive company culture. It serves as a central gathering point, fostering a sense of community and unity among employees. In the era of hybrid working, where employees have the flexibility to work remotely, companies are quickly understanding the importance of reevaluating the purpose and design of their physical office spaces. To entice employees back to the office and foster a sense of community, it's crucial to create a workplace that goes beyond traditional cubicles and conference rooms. Resimercial design is a concept that is becoming increasingly popular for organisations looking for inventive ways to make office working more appealing. The design concept is all about creating that homely feel that makes remote and hybrid working so tempting. Offering the comfort of home in the office through soothing social spaces, comfortable furniture and thoughtful decor can be the key to cultivating a positive and engaged company culture. In Summary: It’s clear to see that integrating a social space within your office can be a game-changer for your business. By leveraging the power of innovative and adaptable solutions, you can create an environment that fosters collaboration, boosts employee well-being, and nurtures creativity. Fluid understands the demands of the modern workspace which is what makes our extensive range of breakout and collaboration furniture a brilliant choice for your social space. Get in touch today if you’re interested in embracing the concept of fluidity in your office design and taking a step towards a more connected, productive, and engaged workforce, ultimately driving your business towards greater success.

Why does this matter when looking at office furniture? Modern offices need to be flexible, durable and open to the fluidity that comes with constantly evolving workspaces. Equally, you don’t want to be endlessly spending your profits, so early decisions are important. Office spend is inevitable whether you’re investing in new, ergonomic furniture or printer paper. But there is a vast difference between the types of expenditure, and its vital to have a clear financial plan from the outset. (No-one likes nasty surprises further down the line!) Understanding the difference between OpEx and CapEx expenses can help make these decisions a little easier. OpEx (Operating Expenditure) refers to short-term expenditures that keep a business running. CapEx (Capital Expenditure) refers to long-term investments/capital expenditure used to purchase, maintain or upgrade/invest in tangible company assets. How does this relate to office furniture? Every office is likely to have a combination of both OpEx and CaPex expenditure, but how much of each depends on the structure of your business and your overall budget. CaPex requires a business to have funds available for the full cost of a project. This might mean a full office fitout, or a long-term investment in office furniture, for example. Such decisions often need to be signed off by the people ‘at the top’ and, if funds aren’t available, bank assisted funding might be necessary. OpEx doesn’t require the cash outlay associated with CaPex. It is the money a company spends on a regular, ongoing basis such as printer ink and employee wages. It operates on monthly overheads with no need for bank related funding. For those that aren’t wishing to make grand furniture purchases, rental office furniture can be a great option as it enables a business to preserve its cash rather than spend on capital assets. Most businesses will combine both OpEx and CaPex along the way. During an office fit out, for example, certain elements such as office equipment will fall under fixed assets. CapEx is required for any construction work that is undertaken to the building. OpEx can then be used to cover the cost of any movable assets such as office rental furniture. The pros and cons There are pros and cons for both options, so the choice ultimately comes down to what makes the most strategic sense for your business. When it comes to an office fitout, it seems more likely that any business would opt for CaPex, but it can be a nerve-wracking prospect for new businesses that lacks a precedent for future success. A big investment with no guarantee – not for the faint hearted! This is where OpEx can come into its own with options such as office rental furniture. In fact, one of the main reasons that many businesses opt for CaPex for fitouts is because they’re unaware that furniture rental is an option. (We can assure you that it is, and it’s a perfectly viable option!) With a simpler spending model, OpEx has vast benefits due to its flexibility. There’s no need for stringent budget approval and it can be more economical, particularly if you’re unsure about the future of your business. Office furniture rental is for the short term and offers an affordable, flexible option with no need for long term decisions. The real benefit comes with tax as any operation costs can be fully deducted for the tax year. OpEx is a taxable business expense and VAT is claimed monthly. That said, the long-term investments associated with CaPex are always beneficial. While it does mean paying upfront for assets, it is a one-time purchase which removes the burden of having to part with finances on a monthly basis. However, from a tax perspective, OpEx is preferable over CapEx which will reduce profits and taxable income due to its upfront payment and depreciation. Office furniture and OpEx There are many advantages to choosing office rental furniture, or the OpEx route. You don’t have to make any long-term decisions or pay a lump sum that vastly cuts into your profits. Your budgeting can be predictable with the option to upgrade or replace furniture at any point during your lease. That means you can make changes as often as you want and within budget, all while offsetting against tax! Overall, your risks are reduced with OpEx, particularly within the realm of office finances for years to come. Go with the flow, see what makes your workforce thrive. Office spaces are changing, and businesses are becoming more flexible. That’s why it matters to consider your business options and make the decision that will be of most benefit to you. FluidSpace Flex offers a highly adaptable subscription-based based office furniture rental and lease service that helps businesses grow. Renting or leasing your favourite furniture pieces can come at a low monthly cost rather than a high capital investment with zero returns. Want to know more about our office furniture rental options? Please get in touch with one of our team.