Image showing a corridor of workspace units

Create Your Space

Once you've gone through our checklist to help set up your space, it's time to work on the layout and design of your space.

FLOOR-PLAN

  • Obtain the floor-plan from your landlord in PDF / CAD format if available.
  • Choose how you’ll map out a layout for your space
  • Work with an architect. There will probably be an expense attached to working with an architect - it could cost you around £500. Get in touch with us for an accredited architect supplier list.
  • Use an online drawing tool, such as Sweethome3D, FloorplanCreator or Sketchup.
  • If you cannot get hold of a floorplan, you can design your own layout directly on site, using a tape measure and duct tape

DECIDE ON MATERIALS

  • Polycarbonate: Optimises light through the space
  • Plywood: Very strong and the thinner cuts are easy to work with. Plywood with a good quality veneer can be stained to look like wood and is easy to paint
  • OSB: Strong, durable, and provides structural support. It provides an airtight layer and minimises joints and trimming scrap

CHECK BUILDING REGULATIONS

  • Check the number of fire exists and distance to the closest fire exist - If only 1 fire exit exists, it must not be more than 18m or 25m in low risk areas; and 12m if there is a higher fire risk
  • Ensure corridors are at a minimum of 1.1m
  • Create a minimum of one toilet, the minimum number of toilets depends on the number of people at work, one toilet for up to 5 people.
  • Check if windows can be opened or if there is another way to provide ventilation. See more details under Building Regulations checklist

WALLS AND DOORS

  • Measure the total length of the walls in the different materials
  • Count the number of open and enclosed units you have designed
  • You will need two supporting beams for each wall
  • Count the number and size of doors