If you’re a real estate broker for commercial spaces, you must have noticed how easy it is to seal a deal for green offices. Eco-friendly offices are eligible for tax breaks, cheaper to run, and attract talented people to the brand. One defining feature of these offices is custom timber panelling, which provides aesthetics, acoustic control and sustainability. Timber’s renewability and durability are some reasons why it’s soaring in demand among investors and tenants. Therefore, brokers can’t ignore ESG criteria and custom timber in it.
What Makes an Office “ESG-Ready”?
ESG-ready office integrates environmental, social, and governance principles for better environmental impact and employee well-being. These principles include implementing eco-friendly office designs in architecture and practices to ensure ethical environmental impact and work well-being. Some prominent features that make offices ESG-ready are:
- Energy efficiency: Using HVAC systems, automated lighting, and heating systems makes buildings energy efficient.
- Waste management: Recyclable and organic materials for office constructions is one defining feature of sustainable office spaces.
- Proper indoor air quality: Maintaining healthy air quality improves the health of the workers and builds a sustainable workplace.
- Ergonomic and flexible workspaces: Workspaces should be open and collaborative to foster connection and better mental health.
The Role of Custom Timber Panelling in Eco-friendly Office Design
Renewable and Responsibly Sourced
Timber is easily and responsibly sourced from wood, unlike traditional materials like steel or cement. The material requires the least amount of resources to produce and is one of the least wasteful materials. Timber is effective for carbon capture, which means it absorbs more carbon than it produces. Therefore, custom timber panelling is the best option for ESG-ready offices.
Better Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Timber panels maintain moderate temperatures during extreme heat waves or cold. Custom timber panelling can be designed to act like natural HVAC systems, reducing reliance on appliances. This step reduces utility bills and energy costs for the workspace.
Better Acoustic Performance
Custom timber panels absorb and redirect sounds. Thus, it helps reduce commotion and distraction in the office, and employees can work in relative peace. Offices aiming for workspace privacy can benefit from using timber as wall panelling. Privacy and lower sound levels improve employee productivity, which is a hallmark of an eco-friendly office design.
Positive Impact on Indoor Air Quality
Timber is a natural material which prevents microbial growth and pathogenic diseases. Moreover, it regulates humidity levels when treated with low-VOC materials. With low levels of germs and dust in the office, it reduces air pollution and improves air quality in the workspace.
Better Safety Compliance
Timber’s insulation provides better fire safety than steel or cement and easily complies with National Construction Codes in Australia. Thus, it is easier and quicker to get permits from the authorities with custom timber panels.
What Brokers Should Ask Designers and Fit-Out Partners
Material Quality and Specifications
Ensure the timber has certifications for fulfilling environmental requirements and sustainability goals. Be specific about whether you need veneer timber or solid wood. Veneer timber is useful for open-space plans, while solid wood timber is beneficial for high-traffic areas. Klikwood, Australia’s leading custom timber panel provider, offers a diverse range of timber available for panelling with the proper certification for environmental sustainability.
Designing and Procurement
Confirm if they seek approval from clients for their custom timber designs for panelling. Ensure whether you need to bring the measurements or if the company measure the dimensions on-site. For maximum durability, make sure the edges are sealed tight with hard-wax oil.
Compliance and Safety
Ask about the fire resistance level of their timber and whether it fits the minimum criteria for your custom timber panelling. Double-check whether the material has met the minimum requirements for acoustic control as well. Klikwood ensures that all its timber meets all the safety codes and compliance requirements for commercial offices.
Conclusion
Custom timber panelling is a strategic decision for lowering energy costs, improving indoor air quality and maintaining moderate temperature. Additionally, timber speeds permit the process due to its fire-resistant qualities. Thus, timber panels have become undeniable in the commercial real estate industry that brokers cannot ignore. However, brokers must be vigilant in acquiring the best quality timber for their office fit-outs and ensure it complies with safety codes. If you’re weighing options, Klikwood is the best destination for your custom timber panels for your eco-friendly office designs. Visit our official homepage for more information and contact us today.
