I think it’s fair to say that we are all acutely aware of the threats our world faces such as climate change, air and water pollution and deforestation. Waste production is also a major problem and many businesses have set targets to attain more sustainable practices.
But what is being sustainable?
The go-to definition of sustainability is ‘meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs socially, environmentally and economically.’
It’s inevitable that our business premises will start to get tired and dated and require a re-vamp in order to feel fresh and to attract clients. So how can we implement this necessity for sustainability when our workspaces need an update? One way that you can make a real impact in being sustainable in your refurbishment project is by reducing waste and reusing what you can.
This can take a bit of imagination and creativity but it is easily achieved. Re-using what you already have can also be a far more cost-effective option, not to mention the lack of disruption that a full ‘rip out and refurb’ will create.
At Fusion, we are well-versed in the refurbishment of all things office based. We use superior-quality architectural film to wrap everything from desks to wall panels, office bathrooms to communal kitchens, and lifts to boardroom tables. By using our highly durable interior vinyl film you will contribute towards your project being far more sustainable.
If you are thinking of an office refurbishment, sustainability should be considered at the planning stage. If you have engaged a designer to support your project, then you should make it very clear during the brief, that sustainability is a key objective of the project.
Ways that you could contribute towards being sustainable in your office refurbishment could include thinking of the position and size of your windows. If you are in the lucky position to acquire floor-to-ceiling windows, that’s amazing! If not, consider the placement of your workstations to be closer to natural light, therefore reducing energy consumption.
Similarly, having well-insulated windows that are easy to open and allow air to circulate effectively will mean that air conditioning is not required. And for colder weather, ensure that heating is turned off after working hours and encourage staff to wear more layers and to work together in smaller areas if this is a possibility, with plenty of hot drinks on tap!
Also, don’t forget that plants and greenery in your workspace will not only look beautiful – they also act as a natural air purification system.
REUSING THE THREE Fs WITH FUSION!
Fixtures, Fittings and Furniture! Can yours be re-used instead of being disposed of and taken to landfill?
Vinyl wrapping can completely transform any structurally sound surface. For example, if your office entrance is looking decidedly old-fashioned and tired, why not consider giving the space a lick of paint and wrap one feature wall in a luxurious vinyl such as marble effect to make a stand-out first impression. Are your doors a tired beech effect? You could give them a brand-new look in a modern grey.
Maybe your conference or meeting space feels dated, unloved and uninviting. Applying vinyl film to the walls and tables and other furniture within the space can transform it from drab and dreary to an inviting space where staff are likely to be much more productive!
Corridors are so often neglected in an office space. This is surprising as not only do they occupy lots of the surface space within the building but volume of traffic means that they usually end up scuffed and scraped. Interior wrapping can be used to cover corridor walls, completely transforming the feel of the space whilst being durable and hard-wearing.
As a business owner or manager, you might be surprised by the wear and tear suffered by office desks and the frequency at which they need to be replaced! Rather than replacing desks, why not consider wrapping them which will save you money and reduce waste. You’d be amazed at some of the stunning results we have had with office furniture. Check out our case studies to see how we have transformed office furniture in numerous workspaces that would otherwise have ended up in the skip.
So how does vinyl wrapping contribute to saving our planet?
Huge proportions of landfill waste are the result of building projects and developments. As a designer or business owner at the start of your office refurbishment journey, you are likely to be looking for options that reduce waste as well as provide durability and longevity and pleasing aesthetics. Vinyl wrapping offers exactly this! Wrapping existing surfaces prevents items from being dis-regarded unnecessarily and offers them a new lease of life.
There are countless benefits to considering more sustainable choices in your office re-fit, including minimising your impact on the environment by reducing waste, saving money on the purchase of new fixtures and fittings as well as ongoing energy bills and boosting your reputation among green-conscious clients.
What can Fusion offer? Across all interior vinyl ranges that we supply, there are hundreds of finishes in woodgrain, natural stone, solid colour, metallics and fabrics. There really is something for everyone! We are friendly and approachable and we are always happy to talk you through any of your ideas and answer any questions. Our highly experienced, professional and reliable installers work around your office space with minimum disruption, leaving you and your staff to continue with their working day.
So, if you are looking for a sustainable office refurbishment, get in touch!
