At TRS, we work closely with clients planning new fit-outs and relocations, and one of the most important decisions they face is how to lay out their workspace.
The layout you choose can impact everything from productivity to real estate costs. It should reflect your team’s size, the nature of your work, and how you want your people to interact.
Here’s a quick overview of the most common office layouts – and when they work best.
Traditional Offices: Privacy & Focus
This setup suits small to medium-sized businesses that need quiet, private spaces. Law firms, accountants, and consultants often choose this model because it allows for confidential meetings and uninterrupted focus.
Each person gets their own room or enclosed workspace. It uses more space, but supports work that demands privacy and concentration.
Open Plan: Collaboration & Cost Efficiency
Open-plan layouts are popular with growing businesses. By removing physical barriers, they encourage communication and reduce space requirements, which can translate into lower leasing and fit-out costs.
There’s a trade-off in terms of privacy, but for many companies, the boost to collaboration and team energy is worth it.
Non-Assigned Seating: Flexible Day-to-Day Use
In this model, staff choose any available desk each day. It’s a good option for organisations where work is process-driven and staff don’t require personal setups, such as call centres or large admin teams.
It supports flexibility and can reduce overheads by allowing for more efficient space utilisation.
Hot-Desking: Share the Space, Cut the Cost
Hot-desking is ideal for businesses with field-based or shift-working staff. The same desk is used by different people at different times, reducing the total number of desks – and the space required.
It’s a practical choice for companies looking to cut costs without sacrificing headcount.
Hotelling: Book as Needed
Similar to hot-desking, hotelling adds a bookings system. Staff reserve workstations or collaboration spaces in advance, making it easier to manage space usage.
It’s a great solution for companies with mobile or part-time teams that occasionally come together – especially in sales or project-based roles.
Telecommuting: No Desk Required
Also known as remote work, telecommuting allows employees to work from home or any location. With today’s tech, entire teams can stay connected without being tied to a single office.
Some businesses combine this with small satellite offices. This gives employees choice, while cutting down on office space and lease costs.
Planning a Move? Let’s Talk Office Strategy
The right layout supports the way your people work and the goals of your business. If you’re relocating or rethinking your workspace, TRS can help you create a smarter, more efficient setup.
Contact us today to find out how we can help make your next move the right one.
