Office Design Standards: Optimizing Workspace Efficiency
Architect's Corner

Office Design Standards: Optimizing Workspace Efficiency

In the dynamic landscape of modern business, creating an optimal office environment that aligns with the purpose and culture of each company is imperative. The establishment of office design standards, specifically the ratio of square meters per person (m2/person), plays a crucial role in fostering a contemporary and comfortable workspace that caters to the needs of employees.

(Credit: ZIKZAK Architects)

1. The Common Ratio of Standard Office Area (m2/person)

Determining the appropriate office area per person involves considering various factors, such as private rooms, meeting spaces, reception areas, and display areas. Several standards prevail in the market:

  • Average Level (5 – 6 m2/person): Frequently adopted by Vietnamese businesses.
  • Space and Cost Savings (3 – 4 m2/person): Aimed at optimizing space and reducing costs.
  • Standard Level (7 – 10 m2/person): Ideal for enhancing employee comfort and creativity, increasingly applied in Grade A office buildings.

Recognizing that office work encompasses diverse activities, the workspace size, furnishings, and additional features are pivotal considerations during the planning phase.

(Credit: UP2DATE architect)

2. 6 Square Meters Per Person: Sometimes Too Much, Sometimes Not Enough

While the average ratio of 6 square meters per person is common in the Vietnamese market, however for 100 people, 600 m2 is not enough space. its adequacy depends on factors such as the office grid and the specific needs of the workforce.

(Credit: SB-ID)

3. Factors Affecting Office Area Determination

Delving into the intricacies of determining office area involves asking critical questions:

3.1. Overall Perspective

  • Leadership decisions on economy, comfort, or business class.
  • Choice of office design style: industrial, modern, minimalist, eco-friendly.
  • Configuration of office space: open or partitioned.
  • Consideration of natural light availability and customization options for employees.

3.2. Essence of Work

  • Nature of work (creative, rule-based).
  • Group dynamics or individual tasks.
  • Frequency of meetings and need for separate rooms.
  • Requirements for training areas, visitor reception, or storage spaces.
  • Privacy considerations, including acoustic privacy in an open workspace.

3.3. Cultural Aspect

  • Company culture: youthful, free-spirited, serious, or private.
  • Attention to employee well-being and additional functional areas.

3.4. Your Budget in the Long Term

Allocation of budget for rent, management fees, utilities, and furniture depreciation over the rental period (typically 3-5 years in Vietnam).

3.5. Your Expected Increase in Human Resources and Departments

Anticipating future growth in human resources and departments.

(Credit: Thien Thach Photo)

Navigating the complexities of office area determination requires personalized advice from experts. APES Design’s architects specialized in designing office spaces for numerous companies each year, ensuring a harmonious blend of functionality, aesthetics, and employee well-being in the workspace.