Designing Work Spaces That Embody Your Brand

A brand is the embodiment of what the company stands for and believes in. It captures the essence of corporate culture and philosophy and communicates its basic ideas. Every space needs to tell a story, but mapping brand identity to it is a complex undertaking. Getting the visuals right is a fine art and there are many parts you need to piece together. The investment of time, money, and creative energy pays dividends in the long run, though, as it allows you to put the best face forward and make a lasting impression on everyone who sets foot in.

A brand new strategy

A brand is what sets one company apart from cohorts of competition. It’s a distinctive voice that resonates with customers, an image that evokes strong emotions, an experience that drives someone throughout the buyer’s journey. Alas, businessmen often focus on external marketing elements such as corporate website, business cards, and ads. What they overlook is the profound effect that a business space has on employees, clients, community, competition, customers, and other stakeholders.

So, a successful corporate branding strategy must encompass the aspect of the business environment. After all, brands exist and need to be rooted in the real world. These concrete foundations enable them to influence people, their thoughts, emotions, and ultimately, purchasing decisions. Established brands are well-aware of this and go to great lengths to transform their headquarters, stores, and offices into awe-inspiring, creative environments.

The bottom line

Furthermore, a branded space supports employees and guides them to the company’s objectives. Studies have shown that the workplace environment accounts for 25% of job satisfaction. Hence, a workspace also affects the ability of the company to attract and retain talent. People appreciate the chance to work in a well-designed, healthy environment, where they have access to ample daylight, ergonomic furniture, fresh air, and other amenities.

What’s more, in this day and age, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to its staff has never been more important. This kind approach enhances productivity and bottom line. Take the example of the open office plan, a layout that maximizes lively collaboration and interaction across the board. People bump into each other, share knowledge, and communicate directly. Of course, there are many other ways in which a space impacts the workforce.

Every step you take

The expression of business values and principles must be crystal-clear and highly consistent. So, the first thing to do is to figure out how to uncover them and create the right experience for anyone who visits or uses the space. This initial stage is a process of self-discovery and information gathering. It requires one to evaluate present assets and make the most of them.

What you want to do is to align company’s touch points with the quality and layout of the space. That is why it is highly advisable to work hand in hand with professionals. Hire designers, branding professionals, and architects to plan and execute your vision. Companies like BrandWorks are masters of bringing business ideas to life and letting your unique persona fully shine. They can walk you through the process step-by-step and make your life much easier.

Crown jewels

Strive to assemble a solid framework of graphics, messages, and brand expressions and bind them in a cohesive amalgam. It helps to focus on unchangeable centerpieces of brand identity first, mainstays that are meant to last for years. Namely, the overall aesthetics should echo brand centerpieces such as logo, as well as product packaging and website design. On the other hand, adaptable components such as wall finishes and paint color can be added later.

If we take Apple, first things that come to mind are sleek design, minimal material palette, and clean-looking website. On top of that, their stores spark attention and imagination, which is a lesson that every retail business should take notice of. Brushed metal, white finishes, and warm, wood accents are not just bells and whistles: They are there to create experience and enthrall people.

The cutting edge

A physical workspace speaks volumes about a company’s values, mission, and goals. It also keeps those on top of the mind for employees and stakeholders. Those who mean to stay ahead of the pack must make good use of each and every design element to put together a stunning and inspiring environment. Translate your brand into a tangible form and help people understand who you are and what makes you unique. Mold the user experience in three dimensions and you will be able to gain a powerful edge over the competition.