Business expanding faster than your space? Don’t have the funds to expand your office space or premises to match the growth? Don’t panic because there are tons of things you can do to get through this period of growth without feeling the squeeze.
- Get Creative with Storage – If you are running out of space for your business, then storage units might well be your savior. Not only can you use them for, as the name suggests, storage, of everything from files to desks, but you can also often actually utilize them as extra space for working in, depending on the lease agreement and local regulations, Of course, they’re perfect for storing stock too.
- Go Paperless – A really easy way for you to free up more space in your business premises might be, if you have not already, to take some time to digitize your files so that you do not have stacks and stacks of paper to accommodate in tons and tons of big, bulky filing cabinets. You will be surprised at just how much space you can free up doing this but also at how much more efficient it is for you to run your business paper-free.
- Make Hot-Desking the New Normal – Hot-desking—where people share workspaces instead of having designated desks—can be a lifesaver when space is tight. Set up shared workstations that anyone can use, whether they’re part-time, remote, or just popping in for the day. Encourage employees to use lockers or drawers to store personal items, and let the hot-desking begin. This way, you can accommodate more people without needing more desks. Just be sure to create a fair system so everyone has a spot when they need it, and no one feels like they’re playing musical chairs with their office.
- Maximize Vertical Space – When floor space is limited, start thinking up! Use your walls for storage with shelving units, hanging organizers, or even pegboards. From files to plants to office supplies, wall storage can free up desk and floor space and make everything look less cluttered. Not only is vertical storage functional, but it can also add some style to your office. Think chic wall-mounted file organizers or floating shelves that make your office look like it was designed by a pro (even if it was just you and a Pinterest board).
- Encourage Remote Work – If there’s one lesson the last few years have taught us, it’s that many jobs can be done just as well from home. If your team can work remotely, why not make it a regular thing? Offering remote work options not only saves on desk space, but it also keeps employees happy and productive. Try offering flexible in-office days or allowing certain roles to go fully remote. Your team will love the freedom, and you’ll love having fewer people fighting over the limited office space.
- Use Multi-Functional Furniture – When space is limited, every piece of furniture should earn its keep. Invest in multi-functional furniture that can do double duty. Think fold-out desks, storage ottomans, or desks with built-in shelving. You could even get a conference table that doubles as a standing desk area when it’s not in use. Look for versatile pieces that you can move around and rearrange as needed. Multi-functional furniture makes small spaces feel bigger and can transform your office setup based on the day’s needs.
- Hold Virtual Meetings – When your office is tight, squeezing in a conference room is pretty much impossible. But here’s the thing: you don’t need one! With so many video conferencing tools at your disposal, it’s easier than ever to hold meetings online. Platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet allow you to connect with clients and team members without cramming everyone into a tiny space. Plus, virtual meetings save on commuting time, minimize the chaos of finding a space, and are easy to schedule. So go ahead and cancel that weekly room scramble—your “conference room” is now just a click away.
- Declutter the Kitchen – Does your office kitchen look more like a dumping ground for everyone’s favorite mug and mystery Tupperware? If so, it’s time for a kitchen cleanout. Keep only the essentials: coffee maker, kettle, a few mugs, and minimal cutlery. Anything extra can go in storage or be taken home. If space is really tight, consider nixing the kitchen entirely and encouraging employees to use communal areas nearby or to bring personal water bottles and snacks. And if you have a coffee maker in the main area, you’re still covered in the caffeine department!
- Rethink Your Inventory Storage – If your business deals with physical products, find ways to streamline inventory storage. Consider reorganizing shelves, adopting a “just-in-time” ordering strategy to avoid overstocking, or moving inventory offsite to—you guessed it—a storage unit. You can also explore partnerships with local warehouses or fulfillment centers to handle bulk storage and shipping, which can save both space and time. This allows your workspace to be just that—a workspace—rather than doubling as a crowded stockroom.
- Make Use of Mobile Carts – Need to create more flexibility in a small space? Enter mobile carts! Mobile carts are ideal for holding supplies, equipment, or even laptops. Roll them out when needed, and tuck them away when they’re not in use. These carts are perfect for shared office supplies, tech equipment, or even for those times when you need to bring in extra seating for a meeting. Just grab a cart, roll it to where it’s needed, and you’re good to go
- Get Minimalist with Office Decor – It’s tempting to make your office look cool and inspiring with decor, but in a small space, less is more. Try sticking to minimal decor that doubles as functional, like corkboards, magnetic whiteboards, or framed documents that serve as both decor and reference. Keeping things simple prevents your space from feeling cramped. Go for one or two standout pieces, like a well-placed plant or a statement art piece, and call it a day. Clean, minimal decor helps the space feel bigger and more open.
If you can’t move, make the most of what you’ve got!
