As industries evolve, so do spaces. Having an office space within the warehouse is quickly catching up as the in thing in industrial real estate. What was once an unconventional setup has grown in popularity, with many companies seeking to make their operations more efficient and cost-effective.
But is this hybrid approach right for your business?
Yes and yes. Whether you manage logistics, manufacturing, or warehousing, an office inside your industrial warehouse could change the way you work. It can boost productivity, create better opportunities for supervision and improve collaboration and communication between workers.
Let us run through benefits, challenges, and expert views that may help you decide on whether this setup is ideal for your business.
Why Businesses Are Using Office-Warehouse Spaces
Maximising Space in Industrial Properties
Industrial properties are usually huge in area, and if not utilised properly, most of it goes wasted. Building offices in warehouses facilitates the use of vertical space and corners, which would’ve been wasted otherwise. This way, a company can efficiently manage resources without having to rent additional office space.
Team Collaboration Enhanced
Your administrative and operational staff will enjoy better communication and work efficiency under the same roof. Having an office inside a warehouse creates more communication channels between teams working on the warehouse floor and those in the office, reducing delays in decision-making.
Cost Savings for Industrial Tenants
This can be quite costly, especially in competitive markets such as Melbourne’s south-east. In addition, saving on rental costs by combining the office and warehouse reduces utility and maintenance expenses. This cost-effective solution is great for businesses seeking to scale without high overheads.
Flexible Modular Office Solutions
The modern industrial warehouse has no limits in terms of flexibility. Modular office solutions allow businesses to adapt and change their space as they grow. Need more storage? Simply adjust the office layout. Hiring more employees? Expand your office footprint. This is how businesses are future-proofing their operations while maintaining efficiency.
What to Consider Before Integrating an Office in Your Warehouse?
While the gains are clear, there are issues of their own in terms of integrating office spaces in warehouses. This involves addressing a number of issues:
Safety Standards and Regulations
Since an office is to be established according to workplace standards, there must be adequate provision for fire hazards, installation of emergency exits, and building codes.
Environmental Control for Comfort
Most warehouses are designed for storage and production, not comfort. Insulation, heating, cooling, and ventilation systems have to be put in place if office staff are to work efficiently. Without doing so, productivity and morale may suffer.
Noise Levels
Warehouses can be quite noisy, with machinery, vehicles, or ongoing operations. Soundproofing materials installed in the walls and barriers separating the offices from each other are extremely important to enable office staff to work without distraction.
With more Australian businesses jumping on the trend, some industry pros are sharing their thoughts on the perks of blending office and warehouse spaces.
Is It Right for Your Business? Pros, Cons, and Final Thoughts
The integration of an office into your industrial warehouse should consider a number of pros and cons in making a decision.
Advantages:
- Making the most of our space.
- Better team work all around.
- Room to grow in the future.
Challenges to tackle:
- Getting the design and complianceright upfront.
- Keeping the workspace comfy and quiet
- Staying on top of environmental controls
- Having adequate car parking to allow for this and if a permit is require
Next up: Tailored solutions for industrial properties.
Ready to check out industrial spaces that blend well with office needs? Find the ideal solution for your business needs with experts who specialise in industrial property for sale and lease in Melbourne. From flexible warehouse designs to fully compliant office spaces, tailored advice ensures you make a strategic move for your business.