According to a new study by the British Council of Offices (BCO), the occupant density of UK Offices has increased dramatically over recent years. At their annual conference on 21^st May, the BCO revealed that the average density of workplaces (the area per person) has decreased from 16.7 square metres per person in 1997 to 11.8 square metres in 2009, a rise of 40%.

Space Planning

This could imply that workplaces are becoming more crowded, but BDO research has revealed that innovative design and technology development have over the last ten years has actually meant that space is now used much more effectively and efficiently, allowing more people to share the same space without creating a crowded environment.

The BCO’s new Guide to Specification also recommends 10 sqm as the new average benchmark for office workplace density and sqm per person for occupancy density which reflects the fact that often all available desks in an office are not always in use at the same time. The BCO has updated the average benchmarks to help developers and architects plan new builds and refurbishment projects more effectively, particularly during times when intensification of space is a considerable financial driver.

CH Workspace is well placed to offer office furniture which matches this new design specification. CH Workspace has access to the newest and most modern office furniture available on the UK market, specifically designed to make the most efficient use of available space. In addition, we have modern 3-D graphical design tools which can give you a full walk-through of your new office environment.

The two major developments which have allowed office to become denser without being overcrowded have been firstly in office technology and secondly in furniture design.

Computer Screens

Personal computers used to be bulky items, particularly the old CRT monitors. The depth of the CRT monitor meant that the desktop had to become deeper and deeper, often with sweeping wave desks which took up a lot of space. Now that modern LCD monitors are ubiquitous, they take up very much less desk space and can even been attached to toolrails on the desk. This has reduced desktop depth from about 800mm to 600mm, and can also eliminate the need to have a deep corner or return to accommodate the monitor. Modern designs of CPUs can also mean that they can be suspended under a desktop or hidden away elsewhere.

Modular desks, particularly bench desk systems can also make a dramatic difference to the workplace density, without giving the impression of being overcrowded. They are usually available in light colours with simple, unobtrusive legs which give a light and airy atmosphere. Cable management systems and toolrails

Cable Management Systems

can give a clean, uncluttered environment which make the general office environment appear much less crowded. Clever use of sound absorbing office screens will also help to provide an effective working space in a limited area. They can be used to reduce noise levels, eg from telephone conversations, and can also be used to provide a degree of privacy in a working environment.