The Office Situation:
One of the most important aspects for a supportive environment is the location of the office building. From traditional feng shui measures, the structure should have supportive buildings or landscaping to the sides and rear. The front of the building should have adequate space and a sign carrying the company name.
Access is another factor to consider. Obviously the nature of the business, number of visitors, deliveries, etc. all have an impact here. Adequate parking is also a consideration especially for businesses that are situated on urban freeways as many visitors are likely.
Road configurations also have a part in overall company success. By and large, buildings located on crossroads tend to do very well, since traffic approaches them from two different directions. On the other hand, T-junctions or cul-de-sacs don't fare well as traffic travels straight towards the structure and is seen as being under constant attack.
Landscaping features are extremely important to surround the building. This aides in attraction for employees and visitors alike while providing a barrier between the structure and the road.
Harnessing Energies:
From a feng shui perspective, different types of energy emanate from directions. Therefore, the facing direction of the building plays a significate role on how you can set up and arrange the company departments. For example, new companies bode exceptionally well with eastern facing front. It is fantastic for generating new business and setting company roots. The south direction bodes well for dynamic marketing teams, while the southwest naturally supports human resources. The northwest is great for company networking, the north for storage or counselling department. The western portent can work two-fold; either finance department or if the company has a creative team they will work well in this direction. The southeast suggests growth and movement and therefore is great for brainstorming, new ideas and snap decision-making processes, while the northeast is receptive and productive fostering research and development.
Signs & Logos:
The importance of signs and logos can not be over-emphasized. Essentially, this is the company's identifiable face to the world. The style of lettering, color and material of signs are all predicated on the facing direction and Five Elements. It is important to consider the height, proportion and positioning of all signs and logos in relation to the building structure.
Floor Plans:
The most effective way to layout your office is to utilize an architectural floor plan and apply feng shui techniques. This can effectively position employees, break room, bathroom facilities, reception area, the employer, and all other ancillary offices. Furthermore, it can assist in choosing materials, colors and proper company images.
Other Components:
Yin and yang act together to create movement and balance in the world. In the office yin and yang relate to layout and décor, but also can determine various activities. For example, the boardroom or chief executive office tend to be more yin in décor with heavier pieces of furniture, artwork and other pleasing reflections of the company's work, whereas daily decision-making or implementing policies should be more yang - brighter, lighter features with sleek lines. In these busier areas plants and water features can draw wealth symbolically while softening the otherwise yang feel.
Air Quality:
By and large, office buildings are designed with sealed double-glazed windows to keep the damp and cold out, but at the same time prevent fresh air from entering. Dry air circulation can create throat irritation, respiratory issues, fatigue, eye irritation and headaches. To counteract such designs, it is important to infuse natural materials throughout the environment. Window treatment, flooring, paints, lighting and furnishings are just some simple measures that can be instituted in the design process.
Plants are also an excellent way to clean the air. Here is a basic list of plants that should be included in the office environment.
- Lady Palm
- Dragon Tree
- Rubber Plant
- Peace Lily
- Golden Pathos
- Boston Fern
Running a successful company is no easy feat. However, when you take charge of your environment you'll be amazed how everything else falls in alignment. Creating an atmosphere that is welcoming and inspiring is powerful when it comes to attracting and maintaining talented employees and serious clients. Whether you are an employer or an employee take the time to assess your work environment and make the necessary changes to support your main asset; your staff and yourself.
Mary Jane Kasliner is a master feng shui consultant and business owner. For more information visit her website at www.fengshuiyoganj.com.
