Interior design isn’t only about private homes. It also encompasses all types of commercial establishments, from single rooms to entire buildings. The overall premise for industrial design is the same as for homes, to create an atmosphere and design that fits the use of the area.

Commercial design doesn’t mean it has to be boring, sterile-looking, or minimalistic. True style can be achieved in any environment. Creative spaces can be accomplished in workplaces, classrooms, and commercial restrooms. Yes, in public bathrooms, too!

Designs for the workplace

Interior design in the workplace is as much for the employees as it is for the customers and other guests that visit the establishment. In the past, the design aesthetic was more about making the area welcoming and comfortable. Today, psychology is a part of what goes into creating an environment for commercial businesses. The principle is to develop spaces that support both mental and physical well-being.

The main factor guiding commercial interior design is the purpose of the business. Is it a customer-based establishment, or an office of employees for an online-only company?

For a customer-based environment, foyers and waiting areas should be welcoming, clean, and well-lit, with comfortable seating. You want your customers to feel they are appreciated.

Your employees are as vital as your customers. Their office spaces should be comfortable and accommodating. Considerations for office areas should include optimum temperature for comfort, noise control, personal space, indoor air quality, and ergonomics. There should be separate areas or rooms for meetings, casual gatherings, one-on-one conversations, and quiet areas for creative thinking and relaxation.

According to Psychology Today, the best work environment includes windows with lots of daylight. Being stuck in windowless rooms for too long can cause health issues, including sleep disturbances. Also, use lighter colors to help brighten the area.

Incorporating natural materials such as wood, cork, and plants in the office design can also improve motivation and performances in workers. The environment should have texture, color, art, graphics, and patterns to stimulate creativity, productivity, and a sense of well-being.

Designs for Restrooms

Within a business environment, the restrooms are as essential as the office spaces. The perception of the bathrooms reflects on the company image just like any other area. You can help enhance this perception by including company branding into the design.

As with the foyer and waiting area in your business, you want restrooms to be friendly, clean, and bright. They must also meet the Americans with Disability Act requirements (ADA). Without following ADA concerns, bathrooms and toilet stalls can be too small or not laid out to accommodate a wheelchair or other devices to assist with walking and standing. Other design considerations should be how much use the restrooms will get, and who will be using them.

The style doesn’t have to be cold, and dreary. Soft colors and lots of mirrors can add dimension, especially to a small room. If possible, add windows either toward the ceiling or frosted for privacy. If adding wood to the design, make sure it’s appropriately sealed from potential water damage. Consider using dark grout for tile, to make cleaning easier and for better wear in high-use areas. Public restrooms should have smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces, and plenty of user privacy.

Design for Classrooms

Classrooms with a blackboard in the front of the room with rows of neatly placed desks and chairs facing forward are becoming a thing of the past. New designs are focusing on form and function with the need for flexibility and encouraging active learning.

As with offices, the design has to be based on the use of the classroom. Each educational facility has its own unique needs. Considerations include the age of the students, learning level, and educational focus. Here, as with all commercial design, the classrooms must meet ADA requirements.

The best interior design techniques for a modern classroom include creating unique room layouts, use of colorful materials, textures, and wall-coverings. Well-lit areas with specialty lighting are essential for all learning activities. Separate spaces should be included for group gatherings, quiet study areas, learning centers, and other unique classroom needs.

Commercial interior design can be as distinctive, creative, and exciting as any home design. Choosing the style that works best for a company depends on the unique needs of each business.

Bio: Ruby is a content writer at Realm of Design. She lives in Henderson, Nevada. Ruby writes about everything, but her favorite themes are lifestyle, design and architecture. The information that she shares with her content is always useful and educative. As she is passionate in architecture, that’s why, now she started to read interior and exterior design articles.

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