How to Fit Out an Industrial Unit: A Guide to Maximising Your Space

Resources & Guides
15/08/2024

| Will Hodges

A modern gym sales office featuring an open floor plan with a foosball table, pool table, comfortable green sofas, and workstations. Large windows provide ample natural light, and the space is accented with industrial-style beams and lighting
A modern gym sales office featuring an open floor plan with a foosball table, pool table, comfortable green sofas, and workstations. Large windows provide ample natural light, and the space is accented with industrial-style beams and lighting

Fitting out an industrial unit can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and the right approach, you can create a space that perfectly suits your business needs. Whether you’re an engineering firm, a hair salon, or an educational institution, the key to a successful fit-out lies in understanding your operational requirements and leveraging the flexibility of your space. 

At Onyx Business Parks, we’ve seen businesses from a wide range of industries transform our units into efficient, multi-functional workspaces that drive growth and innovation. 

Here’s how you can do the same. 

1. Understand Your Needs

The first step in fitting out an industrial unit is to have a clear understanding of your business’s specific needs. What activities will take place in the space? How many people will be using it? What equipment or machinery will be housed there? Answering these questions will help you determine the layout, utilities, and structural modifications required. For instance, an engineering company may need robust flooring and high ceilings to accommodate heavy machinery, while a hair salon may focus on creating a welcoming, customer-friendly atmosphere with distinct service areas.

2. Leverage the Flexibility of the Space

One of the major advantages of industrial units at Onyx Business Parks is their inherent flexibility.

Our units can be configured in various ways to suit different business activities. Consider whether you need an open-plan layout or a more segmented design. A half-mezzanine, for example, can provide additional space without expanding the footprint, making it ideal for storage or office space above a manufacturing area. Take advantage of these flexible configurations to maximise the utility of your space.

3. Focus on Functional Layouts

A well-thought-out layout is crucial for efficiency. Design your space to ensure smooth workflow and easy access to essential areas. For example, in a manufacturing setting, the production line should be organised logically, with materials and components easily accessible to minimise downtime. In contrast, a gym might prioritise an open floor plan with clearly designated zones for different types of workouts. Regardless of your industry, the layout should facilitate daily operations and support future growth.

4. Consider Future Expansion

When planning your fit-out, think about the future. As your business grows, your space requirements may change. Choosing flexible fittings and modular furniture can make it easier to reconfigure the space as needed. 

At Onyx Business Parks, our units are designed with scalability in mind, allowing you to expand or alter your fit-out with minimal disruption to your operations.

5. Invest in Quality Materials and Infrastructure

The durability of your fit-out is just as important as its design. Invest in quality materials that can withstand the demands of your industry. This might mean reinforced flooring for heavy equipment, advanced HVAC systems for temperature-sensitive environments, or high-grade insulation for noise control. By investing in the right infrastructure from the start, you’ll save on maintenance costs and ensure that your space remains functional for years to come.

6. Incorporate Branding and Aesthetics

While functionality is key, don’t overlook the importance of aesthetics and branding. Your industrial unit is an extension of your brand, and its appearance should reflect your company’s values and culture. This is particularly important for businesses with customers.

7. Work with Professionals

Finally, consider working with professionals who specialise in industrial fit-outs. Architects, interior designers, and fit-out contractors can bring valuable expertise to your project, ensuring that your space is not only functional but also compliant with industry regulations and safety standards.

Conclusion

Fitting out an industrial unit is a significant investment, but with careful planning and the right approach, you can create a space that supports your business’s success. At Onyx Business Parks, we offer industrial units that are designed for flexibility and growth, making them the perfect canvas for your next fit-out. Explore our unit configurations and discover how we can help you create a space that works for your business.

For more information, visit our unit configuration page at Onyx Business Parks Unit Configuration.

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