New office--need layourt ideas

Hello!

We just moved in to an office space with approx 1800 sq feet and now wish to re-configure the space for our best use..

Our business is video production. we need to make the space more conducive to our needs.

Is this a task of space planner..or architect?>

And where do I begin my research? What should I expect to pay>?

A task for an architect or assuming no significant building alterations an interior designer. Their task is to enervate the team and present it pointedly, extending you and your business.

Production facilities do have specialised requirements so that a designer with appropriate experience may be an advantage but the scale makes it unlikely the value of that would outweigh the value of finding someone who will communicate with you listening intently and discussing your particular way of operating and then resolving the requirements and spatial advantage innovatively.

Good layout is important and both interior designers and architects aim to achieve that. Only limited numbers, however, of architects (and interior designers for that matter) are likely to inject a specialness into the interior.

If you do not already know one you trust and whose work you appreciate you need to seek out designers (in your area, I guess)who with a little contact can demonstrate the capacity to communicate well with you, who show excitement for the potential of the space and who indicate the potential to bring special knowledge and talent to bear. We come in all flavours but a short meeting with a half dozen should yield one or two who appear to meet these requirements. If they are happy to meet you on site (which is best but may cost) or otherwise go armed with whatever information about the site you have.

I wouldn't be too concerned about seeing glossy images of past work or awards but in communication and spirited interest.

But you too have work to do. If you want the design of the space to yield special advantage you need to demonstrate to the designers you meet a receptivity to a collaboration capable of achieving fresh spatial and aesthetic understandings. That you would expect the same.

As with many things, the cost should relate to the extent of work you require and to the benefit you receive. These can be negotiated. Simply expect the designer to provide a convincing argument in terms of the advantage to your organisation of their cost. It will not take too many clients convinced by your surroundings to extend their purchasing or too many percent greater efficiency in staff time to pay for the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive designer. But the most important thing is that this is a substantial part of your and your staff's lives we are talking about, your experience and your aspirations will be extended by good design, it is worth the effort.

Regards

Thank you for taking the time to write..

any more advice?

anyone?

business is video production.

Seek the services of an individual who has a solid education in interior design. Certification by the National Council for Interior Design Qualifications (NCIDQ) is used by all states requiring licensure, as proof of competency. Therefore, in locations where licensing is not required, NCIDQ certification confirms an individual has taken the steps necessary to back their talents with valuable education, training and experience. Note: NCIDQ does not have jurisdiction outside North America. Other countries set their own individual educational standards. Membership in various trade associations indicates a certain level of commitment to the industry.

Beyond the basics of education and training, consider those who have experience creating other production facilities. However, this is not absolutely necessary. A thorough education prepares an individual with the wherewithal to properly research and execute any type of design project. Referrals are always a good place to start, but what works for one individual, may not work for another. Once you have the names of a few prospects, schedule meetings on location. This provides both parties a chance to meet and review the project fully. During the interview be upfront about your requirements including time frame, goals and budget. Discuss and clarify their standard business practices and fee structure. Review portfolios and obtain references. Designers offering portfolios in a wide range of styles indicates their ability to design for their clients, rather than forcing their own personal tastes on a project. We believe the finest compliment a designer can receive is for a client to say 'You always know exactly what I like,' even though the client's preferences may not be what the designer would select for themselves.

With a little effort you will be able to locate an individual/firm you feel comfortable working with, who sparks your enthusiasm with their ideas and who you believe will do a professionally, competent job. The end results of a functional, aesthetically pleasing, exciting environment created within the time frame and budget you have established, will be well worth the effort you spent locating the right designer. The design process is much like a marriage of minds between the client and the designer, therefore, it is very important to find an individual in sync with your values to create a relationship of mutual respect.

Space planner is similar to an Interior Designer. What are your requirements? Is it a small business requiring only some decorating advice and layout suggestions or do you need controlled environments for specialised technical equipment? What are the fire egress and security requirements of your space? If you want a name I can pass on the name of an Interior designer who has worked on a sound studio in the past. He is in New Zealand though. Just say. Uglav.