Every industry has its own standard of office design, but as businesses reduce their footprint and storage needs, the rules are changing, especially for law firms. Paper filing has become a thing of the past, along with massive executive offices for partners. Here is a list of trends we're seeing when furnishing law firms:
Reduced footprint: In the wake of the recession, businesses across the board reduced their overall office footprint to minimize the expense of office space and law firms were not spared. The projected square foot per attorney has reduced to less than 200 square feet, a big change from the more opulent allotment in year’s prior. With more condensed footprint, there is much more emphasis on efficient floor plans.
Smaller furniture: Because the reduced footprint means smaller offices, that also translates to less robust furniture. To compensate for the smaller work areas, they are finding creative ways to utilize storage and putting in executive style desks that aren’t oversized. Even the standing desk trend is working its way into the law firm furniture schematic.
Paperless filing systems: As law firms transition to paperless filing systems, they have less of a need for on site storage. Firms are taking a creative approach to filing, making the areas very dense and highly functional.
Common areas: Law firms are embracing the collaborative workspace, adding in lounge areas and small meeting rooms so the attorneys can meet in a more relaxed setting. Large conference rooms are following a similar trend, embracing sleek and modern finishes like glass and mixed metals.
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