Designing a commercial interior space is more than just aesthetics.

It’s a detailed process that must balance function, brand identity, user experience — and a significant layer of UK regulations and compliance. Whether it’s a corporate headquarters, co-working space, or public sector office, interior space planning in the UK demands a deep understanding of how people interact with space — and how laws govern those interactions.

Here’s why commercial interior space planning is complex, and what businesses must consider to remain compliant and future ready.

Why Space Planning Matters in Commercial Environments

At its core, space planning is about making a space work for the people using it. This means:

• Designing logical, efficient layouts
• Ensuring ease of movement and accessibility
• Creating zones for focus, collaboration, storage, and amenities
• Considering future flexibility and growth
• Meeting operational and safety requirements

However, in commercial settings, these goals must align with a strict and detailed regulatory framework. This is where the complexity sets in.

Key UK Regulations That Affect Commercial Interior Space Planning

1. Building Regulations 2010 (as amended)

Several parts of the UK’s Building Regulations directly impact how commercial spaces are laid out:

• Part M: Access to and Use of Buildings
  Requires spaces to be inclusive and accessible to all users. This affects circulation spaces, door widths, ramps, accessible toilets, and reception counters. Proper turning circles for wheelchairs, height-appropriate fittings, and clear signage are all part of compliant design.
• Part B: Fire Safety
  Fire safety is non-negotiable. It dictates where walls and partitions can go, maximum travel distances to fire exits, the number and positioning of escape routes, and the need for fire-rated materials. Open-plan offices must balance design openness with fire compartmentation rules.
• Part L: Conservation of Fuel and Power
  Encourages energy-efficient lighting, heating, cooling, and insulation. This affects material choices, lighting design, and even furniture positioning to reduce unnecessary energy usage.

2. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992

These regulations are central to office planning in the UK. They outline minimum standards for:

• Workstation layout and ergonomics
• Space per employee (typically 11m² per person as a guide)
• Ventilation, lighting, heating, and sanitary facilities
• Safe access and egress

Meeting these standards ensures staff well-being and reduces legal liability.

3. Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act requires all businesses to make reasonable adjustments to ensure disabled people can access and use a space in the same way as non-disabled people. This impacts everything from door furniture to room acoustics, wayfinding, and colour contrast.

Designers must integrate inclusive design features from the outset — not bolt them on later.

4. British Standards and Industry Guidance

While not legally binding, British Standards provide best-practice frameworks. For example:

• BS8300: Design of buildings for disabled people
• BS EN 12464-1: Lighting in workplaces
• BCO Guide to Specification: Widely used benchmark for office design in the UK

Following these guidelines demonstrates diligence, especially in professional sectors and public procurement.

What Makes Planning So Complex?

• Every building is different: Listed buildings, conversions, and mixed-use premises present unique challenges
• Every user group is different: Legal teams, creatives, support staff and visitors all have different spatial needs
• Conflicting priorities: Fire strategy may clash with open-plan goals; aesthetics may conflict with acoustics
• Tight project timescales and budgets often leave no room for error

Designers must act as translators — turning compliance and technical detail into usable, attractive environments that work.

Why Professional Expertise Matters

Given the number of regulations involved — and the consequences of getting it wrong — professional space planners, designers, and fit-out specialists are essential.

They ensure:

• Compliant layout from the start
• Smooth coordination between building control, landlords, contractors and end users
• Consideration of technical issues like HVAC, lighting, IT, and structural loadings
• A design that looks great and works

Conclusion: Design That Delivers — Legally and Practically

In the UK, commercial interior space planning is a multi-dimensional task. It’s about more than desks and décor — it’s about creating safe, accessible, future-ready environments that align with a dense web of legislation.

Whether planning a new office, refurbishing an old one, or adapting to hybrid working, compliance should never be an afterthought. With the right knowledge and the right team, it’s possible to create a space that supports your people, reflects your brand, and meets every regulatory requirement.

 

Need some inspiration:

https://www.elmworkspace.com/services/office-inspiration