Time for an office remodel? Got office design ideas? How hard can it be? Wait! Before you run out to buy lumber, here are some questions to ask.

Building or remodeling an office is a huge investment, perhaps the largest investment you’ve made since investing into your business in the first place. In the hope of reducing costs, some business owners consider doing the work themselves. After all, there are so many do-it-yourself (“DIY”) shows and websites out there, and you’re an educated professional. How hard could it be? Before you run out to buy lumber, here are some questions to ask.

1. What will the total investment be, and how will you finance it?

It is important to know how much debt you will take on when you are seeking financing. An experienced construction company can help you to gauge expenses early in the design phase, including potential surprises that you may not anticipate. With an accurate estimate, you can budget accordingly and get the financing you need when you need it.

2. How long do you plan to stay in this space?

Are you planning to stay there for fewer than five years? If so, you may want to consider a smaller investment with a lease. If you intend to occupy the space for five years or more, you might find it advantageous to buy or build. Don’t forget to plan for growth, like having space for an associate.

3. How much time will you spend building or remodeling? 

Any money you “save” with a do-it-yourself project may quickly disappear when you figure in the amount of time you will be away from doing what you do best. Designing, building, remodeling, buying supplies, moving– they all involve a lot of time. Do-it-yourself projects are likely to take more time than work performed by workers with years of experience. Before embarking on a do-it-yourself project, calculate how many hours the project is likely to take you, and how much lost revenue you can expect due to reduced time building your business. You may find that including a team of professionals for at least part of the project actually saves time and money.

4. Are you prepared for the differences between residential and commercial interior design?

You might be perfectly capable of exquisitely decorating your own home and still need assistance with commercial interior design. The volume and variety of clients who will be using the furnishings in your office demand that they be more durable than residential furnishings. It can also be a challenge to reflect both a personal and professional ambiance. An objective design team can help you meet that challenge. Your clients will make judgments about the care you provide based on their observations of your office design and décor. In a huge investment like an office, even small design choices matter. The choice of paint or wallpaper can either attract or detract clients. An experienced construction team can help you select durable materials that will please you, your employees and your clients.

Designing, building, and remodeling are huge investments of time and money. Weigh all factors carefully. Sometimes, doing it yourself will be the best option. Often, however, you will find that having a team of experienced professionals can save you time and money. Contact us for more information.