Applying Soft Furnishings to Your Modern Office Workplace

February 15, 2022
Design

Soft furnishings tend to conjure up images of house decor, but they are also gaining traction within the modern office workplace. The trend is accelerating in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, which forced many workers to stay at home, rather than return to the office.

As the pandemic nears its eventual end, all eyes are turning back to the office, and many companies are attempting to make the transition as seamless and inviting as possible. Soft furnishings can play a huge role in making employees feel relaxed, which is good for those still worried about potentially getting sick.

 

WHAT ARE SOFT FURNISHINGS?

Simply put, soft furnishings are textile materials that are soft to the touch, and these include some forms of leather, as well as a host of traditional fabrics. Soft furnishings are commonly associated with upholstery, cushions, and even curtains and window dressings. These items are currently being implemented in workplace conditions in an effort to create a more laid back and relaxed environment.

The history of soft furnishings is well documented, and goes back quite a way. They’ve been used to cover furniture, dress up windows, or cover a bare floor. Many of the household textiles we use today are largely taken for granted as staple elements, and translating them into the office isn’t quite as big a jump as some might think.

 

TYPES OF SOFT FURNISHINGS

The most common types include, but are not limited to:

  • Curtains
  • Carpets
  • Cushions and pillows
  • Bed linens
  • Upholstery
  • Table mats and runners

Leather is an especially popular item, especially high-grade leather which can be used to cover furniture items like sofas and chairs. This also grants furniture stain and damage-resistant properties that are perfect for the office, where many employees and visitors tend to congregate.

Leather is considered a more luxurious material, as well, which is good for making an impression with clients. By utilizing it in the right spaces, such as executive offices, lobby areas and boardrooms, it can go a long way towards impressing the right people.

 

SIMPLE VS. DECORATIVE SOFT FURNISHINGS

Soft furnishings come in two particular categories, both of which have distinct differences. It’s important to understand these differences before choosing particular materials for your office layout. 

The first is simple soft furnishings, which essentially boils down to materials with no surface treatment. Think solid colors with no patterns or surface decorations, such as upholstery fabric and certain curtain fabrics. 

The second are decorative soft furnishings, which tend to incorporate design and pattern elements like screenprinting, embroidery and block print styles to make them stand out. Decorative textiles can also be used in conjunction with simple textiles to create a multi-textured look, and give a sense of depth and layering to a design project.

 

WHY CHOOSE SOFT FURNISHINGS?

There are many benefits to choosing soft furnitures for your office design project, and it helps to know them before planning out the first stage of your remodel. 

First, these textile products are an excellent alternative to more expensive materials, which can help reduce overhead costs, and decorate an office environment for less money. Even an area rug or a carpet can drastically overhaul a particular area, without splurging on costly materials.

Second, they are great for creating a sense of atmosphere and relaxation. By applying them correctly, they can brighten a space, while providing a pleasant textile sensation for employees and visitors to your space.

Third, they are easy to pack up, transport, and deploy in a new space. Also, due to their inexpensive materials, they are easily replaced when damaged beyond repair. Soft furnishings can be a cost-efficient investment when it comes to decorating your space.

 

PLACES TO USE SOFT FURNISHINGS IN YOUR OFFICE

There are numerous areas in your office that can benefit from the addition of soft furnishings:

  • Break Rooms: Create a comfortable and relaxing environment that distinguishes itself apart from your employees’ workstations. Consider adding sofas, large cushions and bean bags that allow workers to fully enjoy their break times.
  • Meeting Rooms: Promote creativity by providing an inspirational atmosphere where meeting room participants can contribute freely during a private meeting.
  • Reception Areas: Greet your guests with a warm and inviting welcome by making the entrance to your office comfortable and cozy. Consider adding sofas, armchairs and cushions.

Try being creative when implementing soft furnishings to your office space. You’ll surprise yourself with how versatile textiles can be in improving your company culture.

 

CONCLUSION

Soft furnishings are no longer just for home decoration. It’s time the traditional office took advantage of what they bring to the table in terms of convenience, aesthetics and experience. The right application of these textiles in your office can mix professionalism with relaxation, and both your employees and clients will thank you for it.

Use soft furnishings to boost positivity and make a great impression. Modernize outdated interiors with a flourish of textiles. Take the opportunity to improve your workplace no matter what your budget may be, or which design you have in mind. 

Do you want to increase employee productivity in your office? Are you looking for an office design that lets your employees fulfill their potential?  Sensyst creates premium office interior designs for all types of businesses. Contact us and let us know how we can help!

Are you looking for more interior design tips and ideas for your office? Read our blog to find out how to attract and retain millennial workers, and discover why the traditional office workstation could be making a comeback this year . As well, be sure not to miss our list of the top design trends to look for in 2022!