This weekend the UK celebrates the Queen’s official birthday. The second Saturday in June, this year the 9th, brings to London all the pomp and circumstance of British royal tradition. So, we thought we’d get our patriotic groove on and see what this annual tradition can bring to concepts of office decor.
History
This annual London parade is seeped in history. It originated in the seventeenth century as a practical method to display regimental colours for the information of soldiers. 1760 saw the parade become an annual birthday event for the sovereign and we’ve never looked back!
In these days of ultra modern and industrial decorative schemes leading the way, historical influences can get left behind. However, you can embrace the historical without turning your office into a National Trust property. Consider the history of your organisation and include aspects of that history in your wall art. Corporate background plays a huge part in forming a brand and should be celebrated within a design concept.
The Household Cavalry
The colours of regiments within the cavalry who parade in the Trooping of the Colour are a great place to start. Vibrant red, as we see on the uniforms of the Horse Guards, will always bring a touch of the royal to a space. This colour carries the added benefit of boosting performance for employees taking on high-detail or memory focussed work.
It’s important not to overdo the colour red, though, as it can incite high emotion. To really set off the colour and bring out a royal concept, extend your colour palette along the lines of the Guards themselves. Contrast the vibrancy of red with monochrome white and black for a striking and modern take on this very old tradition.
Flag Fun
There’s no need to plaster the office with Union flags to get the royal vibe. Cool Britannia was up there for a while… However, the danger of following a trend in your office decorative scheme is that these trends tend to date quickly. But don’t discount the sentiment behind the flag. Symbolism is important in building not just patriotism as a country but patriotism within a brand. So include your branding in your decor, bring your teams together and give them a concept that unites departments.
Brass and Sparkle
It’s impossible not to be struck by the elegance and shine of the armour and helmet of the Blues and Royals regiment. Adornments on horses and the magnificent sight of The Guards Big Band bring still further metallic lustre to proceedings. Optimise this in your office by thinking beyond door furniture and light fittings.
Think about reflectivity; polished surfaces and glass partitions will disperse light and provide a great place to encourage creativity. Metallic shine also makes for fantastic reception centrepieces in a modern office.
The Noble Steed
No office is complete without its own horse… we’re kidding of course! However, think about what London’s horse-mounted regiments bring to the Queen’s official birthday celebrations. This animal is a symbol of teamwork; seamless and trusting relationships which achieve great things. It supports its rider and facilitates their action.
So summon the spirit of the royal horse when configuring your office space. Ensure that areas are zoned and linked in order for colleagues to positively support one another. Commission bespoke furniture to fulfil the requirements of your staff and optimise space.
Ceremonial Fun
As we learn more about how an office decorative scheme and layout impacts the productivity of those working within it, we also comprehend the importance of social areas. Breakout zones allow colleagues to balance out the stresses of professional challenges. So make the most of your space and use it! Throw your own royal tea party, get carried away with the theme and use social space for what it was meant for: expression!
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