With a growing number of workplaces going green as a means to attract staff and reduce their energy output, how do these ethics apply to commercial fitouts?
From elections to electricity bills, climate change is a topic that has come to dominate how we interact with the world around us. On one hand, wild weather events are on the rise and is a real world reminder that this is a problem we can no longer ignore. On the other hand, an increasing number of Australian households are going green as a way to not just do their bit to save the planet, but to spend less on basic cost of living expenses.
As such, it was only a matter of time before businesses of all shapes and sizes were expected to have a policy on reducing their carbon output. Like it or not, both potential customers and staff members want to know what a company is doing to minimise their impact on the earth and ambiguity is simply no longer an option.
For businesses on the hunt for a new office space or perhaps exploring options to renovate an existing one, the good news is that there are plenty of green upgrades that can be applied to commercial fitouts of any size or scale.
How To Use Commercial Fitouts To Go Green
As going green also provides an alternative to the expensive and confusing electricity plans offered by energy retailers, Australians have a very positive perception of solar power. This is particularly relevant for Queenslanders especially since many have been directly affected by extreme weather conditions in the aftermath of the recent floods.
Despite the perks, it’s also worth remembering that while adding solar power during commercial fitouts is a great way to cut down on power bills, going green can also offer healthier, cleaner working conditions with the potential financial savings also known to be an even bigger incentive.
For business owners, it’s also worth remembering that having a more sustainable workplace has the potential to positively improve brand image and a sustainable business is often viewed as a corporate citizen with environmental conscience – but where should you start?
Embrace Sunshine – If your business’ monthly electricity bill is already sitting between $2,000 and $5,000, installing a solar system could save your business an excess of roughly $7,000 per year in electricity costs. Depending on the size of your system, installing solar power as a small business can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000 before rebates apply.
Upgrade To LED – LED bulbs produce light up to 90% more efficiently than incandescent light bulbs, and using such globes could actually save you up to 80% on your light consumption. While it may sound like a small feature, upgrading to LED lights during commercial fitouts is one of the easiest ways to transition towards an energy efficient workplace.
Invest In Insulation – The best way to keep your workplace at a comfortable temperature is to invest in insulation for the ceiling, floors and walls. Along with reducing your company’s power bills year round, insulation helps a home to stay warm in winter and cool in summer, without relying so much on your air conditioner or heating system.
Smart Sensors – Office sensors are usually part of an IoT solution and the connectivity is usually based on Wi-Fi. With many options now available for commercial fitouts, these intelligent devices can help you do everything from monitor indoor air quality, find water leaks and check humidity levels, which helps you get familiar with where your energy is going.
Glaze Your Windows – Prone to letting in heat during summer and cold draughts in the winter, inefficient windows can be a very costly business. Thankfully, the alternative is to install double glazing or window films and even fitting blinds or shutters in addition. By addressing the little things, it’s an easy means to creating an energy efficient build.
Add Living Walls – Adding an infusion of nature during commercial fitouts is not only an incredibly effective way to motivate your staff members and make your workplace more inviting, but did you know that there are also environmental benefits as well? Living walls and hanging gardens reflect solar radiation, boost air quality and release oxygen at the same time.
If you’re moving forward with a new office fitout for your brand or business, try to remember that it’s unlikely that we’ll be going back to the way things were before – if we ever do. Along with not getting left behind, adding green upgrades during commercial fitouts is a simple way to wow your clients, visitors and customers while cutting down on expenses over the long term.
Partner With The Experts On Commercial Fitouts
Whether you’re considering a residential or commercial facelift, it’s always important to speak to a professional before you start tearing down a wall or two. In operation for over ten years, Brisbane based Kibo Constructions believe that quality, reliable workmanship with an honest approach shouldn’t be the exception to the rule.
With a wealth of experience in office fitouts already under our belts, our in house joinery provides access to having your very own custom home furniture and features such as tables, desks, shelves and drawers to fit any space or design requirements necessary. By working closely withour clients, we ensure that the entire process is both a transparent and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
If you know that there’s an upcoming project for you, your brand or your business, we would love the opportunity to provide a quote – you might be pleasantly surprised at the result. As we specialise in commercial, hospitality and residential fit out options in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, please get in touch to discuss how we can bring your vision to life.