I believe working in an office is essential for any architect whether at home or somewhere else. Even if you are a freelance architect, working from a dedicated office-space brings many benefits!
It improves your productivity and creativity. Your tools are easily within your reach, so you don’t have to spend precious time looking for them. Plus, it helps you concentrate longer on your tasks. As a matter of fact, statistics show a dedicated workspace filled with creative tools is the most significant driver of creativity!
As an added bonus, your office can reflect your style and your design philosophy. You can easily impress clients and your credibility if your office is well-curated. First impressions matter to many clients before working with an architect!
Unfortunately, when most envision an office, the first thing that comes to mind are cubicles, dull white lights, and beige colors. But fear not–your office does not have to be that bland. You can design an office to your taste by the decor, colors, design elements, and overall vibe you create. This way, the office is no longer a place you dread, but a haven to concentrate on your tasks, let out your creativity, and meet those deadlines!
To help get you started, I’m sharing essential items you need in your office, even if you’re still an architecture student. Add these items to your office and see your mood, concentration, and productivity improve!
20 Must-Have Office Essentials for Architects
Office Chair
As an architect, you will spend many hours in a chair. And honestly, you won’t get much done if your back is cramping, thanks to your chair being uncomfortable. Everyone has their definition of comfort, but generally, you should look for a chair that offers good support for your spine and a good foam cushion made from a suitable fabric. Don’t be afraid to spend on a good chair–your back will thank you for it in the long run!
Since you’ll be spending plenty of time at your drafting table, consider a tall, swivel chair for optimal functionality. This budget-friendly target chair comes in adorable prints that are neutral enough to match any office decor. If you need an extra plush cushion, check out this double seat cushion drafting chair from amazon. If setting the mood with a unique, upscale chair is your goal, consider one from Crate and Barrell or the Nuova Contessa chair from Teknion which is the one I have in my office.
A Desk/Workstation or Drafting Table
Aside from your chair, you will require a desk and/or drafting table in your office depending on your workflow. The type or size of desk that you get will depend on your personal preferences and needs. A bigger desk means a larger working area where you can quickly spread your tools and keep samples on hand. I would opt for this if you are activly handsketching or need to reference materials samples while working. But, bigger desks can quickly get messy, and the messier I get, the harder it is for me to concentrate. I forget where my tools are and make more mistakes than I typically would. However, this might not be the same for everyone!
On the other hand, if you prefer a smaller desk, it could mean a more intimate or cozier office space. This is ideal if you are short on space and have a mostly digital work flow. The choice is ultimately yours. Just make sure you take your time before you make a decision. Apart from the size of the desk, you can also check if the desk has storage space. Storage spaces mean you can easily keep your tools safe and organized!
Pencils, Pens, and Markers
While most of our drawings are now digitally produced, most architects still spend a lot of time sketching out ideas so it’s a no-brainer to have pencils, pens, and markers in your office. You don’t want to run out of your office looking for a pencil every time you need to draw, right? I didn’t think so!
However, not just any pencil or pen will do! It would be best to buy high-quality pencils, pens, and markers to get those precise lines and avoid smearing. Yes, they may cost a bit more, but it’s definitely worth it. It will save you money in the long run and even make you more productive!
Tape Measure
A tape measure is an architect’s best friend, so you need this in your office. A tape measure is just like a flexible ruler. You can easily roll it up or retract it. Tape measures are used for precise measurements when you’re going for site surveys, creating physical models when you’re in your office, and even when you’re meeting with clients in your office. And, having a tape measure handy means you won’t have to start looking for it when you’re in the middle of a task, which consequently improves your concentration and mood. Because let’s be honest: looking for a tool can be frustrating!
There are tons of tape measures out there to fit your unique needs and style. Depending on your normal day-to-day duties, you can consider everything from this adorable pink power measuring tape to this sturdy, construction grade open wheel measuring tape–or both!
Drafting Tools
Gone are the days, when drawing sets were done exclusively hand drafting tools. I still like to keep them around for quick sketches. Here are a few traditional drafting tools you should have in your office if you actively still want to draw by hand:
When purchasing drafting tools, you should consider factors like durability, the reputation of the brand selling those tools, and whether the tools have measurement accuracy.
Digital Tools
I won’t comment on the computer specs you should get, as that is largely dependent on your software needs. My essential digital tools are as follows
- Iphone Pro Max – I have the 13 Pro Max and it’s by far the most used tool I have. I use it to stay connected with clients, scan my projects, and document construction progress. The list goes on.
- Ipad Pro – I use it for on-the-go client presentations, and to review large sets of drawings on site. With the apple pencil, I can quickly sketch and document things on the fly. I highly recommend having some kind of tablet as an architect.
- BIM Software – I have spent most of my career using Revit, and think that every architect should learn and use this software as it’s become the industry standard due to its collaborative nature and efficiency. However, the cost is quite high for solo entrepreneurs or architects who don’t need such robust software. The OG BIM software Archicad, is also a great option and slightly more affordable than Revit. Test out different options before deciding what’s right for you.
- Canvas.io is a game-changer for scanning existing sites and buildings. It saves me a lot of time upfront so I can jump into designing.
- Affinity Suite for presentations, and photo editing.
- Canva Pro for social media and marketing templates and tools.
Safety Gear
Safety gear is not one of the things that comes to mind when thinking of the tools you need in your office. But here’s the truth: having safety gear in your office is important. Some projects are large-scale, and you never know when you’ll need to go for site surveys. When you keep this gear in your office, you won’t be caught unaware and won’t have to panic when you must go for an impromptu site survey. Phew!
Safety gear can include a first aid kit, protective glasses, protective headwear, long-sleeve protective clothing, and suitable shoes. I have these boots for site visits.
Stress Relieving Tools
Do you know that stress may negatively impact creativity? That’s precisely why you need stress-relieving tools in your office. After working for a few hours, take some time to relax. Doing this will make you more productive and creative!
It might sound silly, but you can consider a Rubik’s cube to help relieve stress. Rubik’s cubes have been found to help reduce stress and anxiety with many other benefits, like helping to improve cognitive strength and memory. Perfect for architects!
Stress balls, puzzle books, and mindfulness apps for meditation are also fantastic stress relief tools!
Model Making Tools
The creative process for architecture typically involves creating models, so you need model-making tools in your office. Model-making tools include model cardboard, glue, wood–anything you can think of. To protect the surface of your desk or workstation, it is an excellent idea to invest in a cutting mat, too!
Projector
If you don’t already use a projector, you’re missing out! Projectors allow you to show your designs to clients better and can even help you visualize your designs better. And the best part is: you don’t need to buy a big fancy projector. A portable projector can also work for you. With a portable projector, you can show your clients your design anywhere and anytime!
VR Headset
I’ll admit it: a VR headset is not an essential item you need to have in your office, but getting one comes with many benefits. Most of the time, your projects cannot be appropriately represented in 2D. But with a VR headset, you can show your clients the design as realistically as possible.
The good news is that VR headsets are not as expensive as they used to be. With a little less than $200, you can get a good VR headset. It’s a worthy investment if you ask me!
3D Printer
A 3D printer is one of the tools that can quickly boost your productivity and allow you to multitask. With a 3D printer, any of your designs can become a physical model in just a few minutes or hours. And, you also get to save money as opposed to ordering a design. The best part is: while your designs are printing, you can start working on other projects or take a short break!
Architectural Books And Resources
You need to have architectural books, magazines, and resources in your office. These resources give you knowledge about building codes, design tips, and past work of some of the most respected architects. Diving into these books will boost your creativity and help your knowledge of architecture to grow!
Plus, your clients, visitors, and guests will love looking through them. And, they make for unique and aesthetic decor!
Organizational Tools
We have discussed a lot of items and tools you need in your office as an architect in this blog post, but where will you put these items? That’s where organizational tools come in!
Organizational tools include shelves, drawers, cabinets, etc. They ensure that all tools are kept clean and organized, which reduces clutter. And, you can pick and choose your storage options to match your desired aesthetic. The last thing you need is a messy and cluttered office!
A Whiteboard
Whiteboards are great for helping you track your projects, write down ideas, pin up inspirations, or brainstorm. Yes, you can do all this with your laptop or tablet, but there’s just something about writing down your ideas by hand. Next time you want to brainstorm, give it a try!
Consider a standing, adjustable whiteboard or larger, wall-mount option.
Lighting
Your office is not complete without the proper lighting. The lighting you get for your office should be bright enough for you to see your workstation, but not so bright that it strains your eyes. And, it should match the vibe of your decor.
Consider unique lighting fixtures, maybe even a chandelier. You can also invest in adjustable table lamps, if needed.
It can be confusing figuring out what items to put in your office, but Studio TPE has you covered!
It doesn’t matter if you already have an office or are creating your first-ever office. These are some of the top items you need in your office!
If you have any questions, or need any advice on your architectural tools, check out my shop or feel free to send me a DM on Instagram or send me an email. And, of course, if you’re currently designing your dream office in your new home, don’t forget to check out my New Builds Services!
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