As more consumers are switching to sustainable products, companies around the globe are following suit. Nowadays, several businesses are converting their establishments to be more eco-friendly. Notably, sustainability benefits the people and the environment while reducing carbon footprints. And if going green makes your customers happy, why not incorporate them into your commercial fitouts?
It’s possible to convert your commercial space into a more sustainable place. It may take effort and a few adjustments, but the result is usually worthwhile. If you’re ready to make the switch, this article is for you. Here are some helpful tips you need to know.
1. Consult A Construction Company
When you’ve decided to construct or renovate your business’ establishment for sustainability, the last thing you want to do is go in blind. If you’re building commercial fitouts, you must follow regulations for your establishment to be considered safe for you and your clients. Furthermore, incorporating functionality with eco-friendly fitouts is also something you can only do with professional help.
A construction company is your best source of information on sustainable commercial fitouts for your business. They’ll suggest the appropriate materials and where to put them while integrating your business’ brand and interior design. Expect them to recommend significant changes, especially if you’re highly focused on sustainability. This way, you’ll have more floor space and fewer electrical fittings to comply with environmentally-friendly standards.
2. Install Eco-Friendly Flooring And Furniture
One of the first fitouts you might change in your commercial space is the furniture and flooring. Sustainable businesses often use bamboo as their primary material. It’s hard-wearing and ideal for cabinets, tables, and flooring. Reclaimed wood is also an excellent choice. You don’t need to worry about its durability. Hardwood is the usual pick for reclaimed flooring, lasting for years with proper maintenance.
The construction team may use recycled metals, like aluminum, for shelves, hand railings, or decorative fixtures. Notably, aluminum is sturdy yet lightweight and maintains its qualities even after being recycled several times. If you decide to switch up your interior after a few years, you can recycle your aluminum fixtures and turn them into something new for your commercial space.
3. Use More Natural Lighting
Windows are essential for any structure. They provide an outlet for wind and natural light. So, it’s no surprise having more windows in your sustainable commercial fitouts makes sense. During the day, consider pulling back the blinds to allow enough sunlight to illuminate the room. Doing so can also save you money on your electricity bill.
However, it’s not a problem if your commercial space lacks windows. Many establishments, such as those in malls, use LED lights instead. Not only are they more affordable, but they’re also an eco-friendly light source that doesn’t require as much energy as incandescent bulbs. Hence, they last longer and emit fewer carbon footprints. Additionally, they don’t produce dangerous heat levels that could make a room feel unbearably warm.
Some LED lights are also motion-activated. When you install some for your commercial space, they’ll only turn on when someone goes near it. So, they’ll only provide light when needed. You may even consider using solar power as an energy source. Typically, businesses that are trying to cut costs would benefit from the use of these products.
4. Decorate With Plants
Instead of buying expensive décor that may not benefit you or the environment, consider investing in decorative plants. In addition to their aesthetic value, they serve other functions as well. Research shows that having plants in a home or office improves productivity, reduces stress and noise pollution, and boosts creativity.
Some examples of plants you can put in your establishment include:
- Lady palms
- Bamboo palms
- Dracaenas
- Peace lilies
- English ivy
The best part about these plants is that they purify the air. So, anyone with allergies is less likely to start sneezing when around them.
If you want to maximize space, put potted plants in places that are too empty. You can also put smaller ones on desks and shelves to add more life and color. Avoid using plastic plants since they defeat the purpose of having sustainable commercial fitouts. The dust that accumulates on plastic ones can aggravate allergies and make a room look unclean quickly.
5. Reduce Cooling And Heating Usage
Excessive use of electric devices is one of the primary causes of global warming. And it can’t be helped that many establishments produce and consume large amounts of electrical energy from their air-conditioners and heaters. While they’re sometimes necessary, you can limit your use of these devices when needed.
Adjust the temperature by two degrees throughout the winter. In contrast, lower it to two degrees during the summer. Stay within those temperatures since your device will consume more energy that way. If you need more ventilation, open the windows or turn on a ceiling fan to circulate the air. Alternatively, you can adjust your AC settings to a level that won’t freeze the room. You can also invest in an energy-efficient space heater to warm up areas on colder days.
Lastly, it’s also crucial that you consistently maintain your cooling and heating devices. Schedule a regular HVAC inspection and cleaning to ensure you receive good air quality while saving on energy costs.
Conclusion
Having a commercial space with sustainable fitouts is easier than you expect. You may need to put in the effort and request professional help from time to time. But what you’ll get in the end is a commercial establishment that’s environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
