Decorating Your Office For Success

            Decorating an office can be a delicate balancing act, especially if you are decorating on a budget.  If your office is used to host clients and other visitors, it is important to create and maintain a professional look while still creating an inviting and pleasant atmosphere.  Perception is everything in the business world and an office that is well decorated will create the look of a successful company.

            A well decorated office will enhance your professional image as well as reflect the company’s standards.  First impressions count and the first thing a client or potential client sees when they step into your office is your reception area.  If clients come to your office on a regular basis, don’t overlook the furniture in this area.  Mismatched tables and chairs tend to make any space look cheap and thrown together, so make sure your reception furniture has a cohesive look.  This is also true if you entertain clients in your personal office.  Provide them with comfortable side chairs or a sofa that unifies the look of your office.  When choosing sofas and chairs for your office, remember that light colors can show wear more easily.  You may want to consider going with darker colors or patterns. 

            Bare walls can give an office a dull, unlived-in feel, and that energy can affect the mood of your staff and clients.  Choosing tasteful artwork will enhance your décor as well as give it a finished look.  Making a personal statement while decorating your office may clash with company policy so it is important to avoid controversial wall hangings or décor and instead find items that are appropriate.  The artwork you choose to enhance your walls is more than simple decoration.  It gives clients an idea of your company’s philosophy and culture.  Clean, crisp black-and-white photography can indicate your commitment to detail; bold colorful modern pieces may denote your talent for innovation; and classic paintings with ornate frames can highlight your dedication to tradition.  Including plants in your office can also greatly improve the environment.  If natural sunlight is unavailable in your office, silk greenery is a good alternative.  Adding an rug in your reception area can provide color and can also protect carpeting in high traffic areas.  Tabletop lamps can also help pull your look together and are recommended to reduce eyestrain.  They can also add some flair to an workstation or reception area.  Choose models that fit into your overall style, whether your office has a traditional or modern feel. 

            When furnishing your office, it is important to remember that the finishing touches are what gives the office a polished look.  McAleer’s has everything to help you create a well decorated office at a price you can afford.  Lamps, artwork, silk greenery, side tables and guest chairs—we have all the accessories you need to complete your room.  Our selection is continuously changing so stop by one of our showrooms to see our newest arrivals and talk to one of our designers about how to decorate your office for success.