Compromise For Small Spaces
For a 600-square-foot office design, the first bit of advice we offer is: Compromise.

Small spaces mean you have to have realistic expectations. You have to first consider all the functions that are absolutely necessary, then work from there.

Decide how much space you need for each function. Actually sit down with a measuring tape, and physically and visually work out the minimum space needed to accomplish the task at hand. You might be wasting space.

Perhaps you have two exam rooms on your wish list. Consider building one and using it during longer hours; you can split these hours with an associate. Use the space you earmarked for the second room for another function.

Also, consider combining functions such as contact lens training and prescription delivery into one room. Multi-use space, if carefully thought out beforehand, can be a practical solution to a cramped work space.

Be willing to compromise on extras too. If a public washroom exists in your building, use it for employees and patients instead of installing a private facility. Bench seating saves space for waiting rooms.

Cabinetry
Use cabinets to create divisions between work zones instead of walls; extra walls will chop up the space. Even the backs of cabinets can be finished to create attractive space dividers. Open-concept office design, with as few extra walls as possible, gives the illusion of space and airiness.

Mirrors
Mirrors are an excellent way to create the illusion of space. A mirrored wall or cabinet in a small office or dispensary will create larger space and can positively affect lighting. Mirrors can also act as a visual guide. If you want people to know your dispensary is located down the hall and to the left you might consider strategically placing a mirror where the dispensary can be seen from your waiting room.

Lighting
Good quality lighting will do more for your dispensary or optical office than most other things combined. You want to convey comfort and a relaxed atmosphere while encouraging your staff to work efficiently. This usually requires more than one type of lighting. Halogen quartz should be your primary source of light for your frame display lamps as it provides the best color rendering properties; then daylight fluorescent lamps with chromed parabolic louvers for comfortable general lighting.