Everyone knows that warehouses can be loud and busy places, full of all kinds of movement and noise that can be distracting for employees. As a result, many businesses are now setting up office space for administrative staff, so that they have a quiet space for work, meeting, or training. In this guide, we’ll show you how to build an office in a warehouse from scratch, from outlining your goals to beginning construction.
1. Determine Your Goals for the Project
Before even considering construction, you’ll need to figure out what the main purpose of your office will be. Do you need it to supervise employees? Will it function as a break room or meeting room? Regardless, once you determine the main reason why you need it, you can figure out where to place it.
For example, if you’re going to use the space to oversee operations, you’ll want to make sure that it’s placed where it will provide a good view of the happenings inside the warehouse. Or, if you’re intending to create a quiet place for administrative staff to work, you better make sure it’s as far away from noise as possible. Taking this into consideration will help tremendously with placement.
2. Choose the Right Location
After you’ve determined the purpose of your office, it will be much easier to select the location. Everyone knows that warehouses can be cluttered and disorganized, so placing your office that improves workflow should be a high priority.
You may also want to consider whether to attach the office to an existing wall or make it freestanding. Saving space is the name of the game, so make sure that’s always part of the equation.
Also, make sure to be mindful of the ceiling, especially if you’re looking to build multi-story or mezzanine offices.
Wherever you choose, make sure that you can also connect your space to electricity, HVAC, and plumbing.
3. Measure Your Location
After choosing the right location, take precise measurements of the area. You want to be certain that the office will not get in the way of any equipment or access to it. Measure both horizontal and vertical dimensions, especially if your plan is to add more than one floor.
If you plan to expand at some point, make sure that you leave extra space to spare yourself from future issues.
4. Decide Between Modular and Traditional Construction
When it comes to building an office in a warehouse, you have two main choices for getting it done: modular construction or traditional construction.
Modular offices, which are made from “modules” or prefabricated panels, are increasingly chosen because of their quick installation and flexibility. Projects that can take months or even years with traditional construction can be completed in a matter of weeks. As you can imagine, this significantly reduces disruptions to warehouse operations.
As far as materials go, you can choose from all kinds of panels with features like insulation, soundproofing, fire-resistance, and more. Further, with modular systems, you can expand, downsize, or move your building with ease, given their panelized structure.
These days, there aren’t a lot of reasons to go with traditional construction, especially since modular structures can last up to 30 years or more!
5. Get Permits
If you choose modular, you likely won’t need any permits, because modular buildings are often considered equipment.
However, if you go with a traditional building, you’ll need to be extra careful about checking local building codes and zoning laws before you begin. All this, of course, will depend on your location.
Getting permits early can help you avoid delays later down the line, so it’s a good idea to be proactive about them.
6. Design Your Office
Next comes the design stage. Begin working with designers, contractors, or manufacturers to create a space that best suits your goals that were determined in the first step.
In this stage, you can create everything from the building layout to its interior features and colors.
7. Determine Your Budget
Next, you’ll want to set boundaries on how much you want to spend for your warehouse office. This should arguably happen before design, but you’ll want to determine your budget at around the same time. Important expenses to consider are materials, labor, permits, and any special features.
8. Schedule Contractors and Begin Construction
Now that your office design and budget are set, it’s time to schedule any contractors for construction. Depending on how you’re building your project, you will have to figure out electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and more. Make sure you plan ahead so that you have the right people to complete the office without delays.
If you go with modular, much of the burden of construction is reduced, as modular systems are pre-engineered and can be assembled quickly. Modular reduces on-site work, which allows contractors to focus on connections and finishing touches.
The Bottom Line
Building an office in a warehouse doesn’t need to be difficult or complicated. As long as you set clear goals, carefully plan, and come up with a realistic budget, you can create a productive workplace for your staff.
Ready to get started? Reach out to the experts at Allied Modular today to discuss your project and get a free quote on a new modular space.
