Remote work is more than just a laptop and a chair. You need to create a cozy space at home where you feel most energized and productive.
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There is a scientific justification for working from home.
Working remotely requires more than just a company-issued laptop, a work phone, and a sofa or dining chair.
To work effectively and perform at your best while working remotely, you need to create the right environment.
The good news is that you don't need a huge room to create the perfect home office space — even a small space can implement some of the ideas below. And while these items don't have to cost a fortune, they can go a long way in helping you stay focused and productive while maintaining your health and happiness.
In interviews, several experts shared their best tips on how to design an office space for working from home and what factors to keep in mind when working remotely.
Mark McShane, founder of Cupid PR, has extensive experience running large corporations and start-ups, and currently leads a fully remote team, so he has the insight to create an effective office space for working from home. What advice does he have on home office features, colour schemes, must-haves and considerations?
“My criteria for designing a work-from-home office are that it's both functional and inspiring. I start with a basic color scheme of soft grays, whites, and beiges to create a calm, professional environment,” he says. “To accentuate this neutrality, I add accent colors of dark blues and greens that have a focus-enhancing effect, adding energy and interest to the room without creating distractions.”
McShane also recommends adding decorative elements that add a personal touch to the space. “This could include fine art prints, plants, stylish storage, etc. Lighting is equally important. Make sure there's enough natural light and supplement it with an adjustable desk lamp with an LED bulb to prevent eye strain,” she advises.
Low-cost office essentials for remote work
On a budget? You'll be fine with these essentials:
1. Ergonomic chair
“Comfort is paramount, and an ergonomic chair will support your posture and reduce back pain,” recommends McShane. His personal favorite is the Hbada Office Task Desk Chair , an affordable product that's currently available on Amazon for just $99.
2. Desk
“The desk should be sturdy; check out the SHW Home Office 48-inch Computer Desk on Amazon, which has plenty of space but is easy on the wallet,” McShane says.
3. Lighting
“Invest in quality lighting like LED task lights or ceiling fixtures,” recommends Ryan Norman, founder of Norman Builders, a New Hampshire home remodeling company. “Proper lighting reduces eye strain and improves focus. If you're on a budget, natural light is free. Place your desk near a window.”
3. Laptop Stand and Keyboard/Mouse Combo
“A laptop stand is a worthwhile investment to keep your screen at eye level and prevent neck strain,” says McShane, “such as this ventilated adjustable laptop stand from Amazon Basics.” A laptop stand can also help prevent your laptop from overheating, which can cause it to malfunction.
A keyboard and mouse combo, such as the Logitech combo recommended by Mcshane, can help make typing more comfortable and efficient.
Incorporate pops of color into a muted color scheme to create a bold, sophisticated, and artful look.
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5. Storage Solutions
Last but not least, storage is key to staying organized and focused. One easy, inexpensive storage option McShane recommends is the Keter modular drawer system. In addition to Amazon, storage solutions, chairs, and desks can often be found at retailers like Staples, IKEA, Target, Office Depot, and Walmart, with generally good quality options to fit most budgets.
6. Artwork, plants, and other personal touches
If you have the money, you can complement these essentials with some inexpensive (or even expensive) touches to add personality to your space. “Prioritize the essentials first, then gradually add more items as your budget allows,” says Maria Szandrach, CEO of Mentalyc.
“Add personal touches to make the space your own. Artwork, photographs and live plants can help inspire creativity and motivation,” suggests Christine Quintrian, co-owner of Bonsai Builders, a luxury home builder in Massachusetts.
Zandrak said she keeps some succulents and sansevieria plants in her work-from-home office.
What to consider when setting up a work-from-home office space
What should you consider before purchasing items for your work from home space?
1. Your routine
“Think about how you'll use your space and configure it to meet your needs,” Quintrian continues. “Measure the square footage, create a floor plan, and think about your daily tasks. Having the right office configuration will make working from home a breeze.”
Quintrian's home office has a desk away from the window to avoid monitor glare, a bookshelf for reference materials, and a cabinet to keep everything organized.
Ergonomics should be your first consideration when choosing what you need for your work from home office… (+) Office Space
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2. Color Scheme
Ashley Southworth is founder and creative director of Southworth Interior Design in Bakersfield, California, and has been working remotely since July 2023. She advises her clients to choose a color scheme that they are naturally drawn to. “Considering the psychology of color is also a helpful approach, as research has shown that colors like blue, yellow, and green increase efficiency and creativity, while red and orange increase activity levels,” says Southworth.
“When it comes to design, I personally love dark, atmospheric rooms, but I advise my clients not to use this approach in their home offices, as it can hinder productivity and lead to repeated naps.”
Do you find yourself feeling down during nap time or mid-afternoon?
3. Style
If you're looking for something a little more upscale, World Market has a wide selection of comfortable, stylish desk chairs at affordable prices, according to Southworth: “The Paige Charcoal Gray Linen Square Back Office Chair is a great classic choice, while the Rifle Paper Co. x Cloth & Co. Oxford Office Chair comes in a variety of colors and whimsical designs.”
“Target always carries stylish desk accessories that are easy on the wallet,” she says. But when it comes to art, her go-to is Etsy's digital art downloads. “There are literally thousands of printable art options, many of which are under $10. I bought this Vintage Southwestern Gallery Wall Set by Arte Serene Co. for my personal office at home and am obsessed. For a more premium look, I recommend printing your digital art in giclee, but if you print it at your local one-hour printing service, I don't think anyone will notice.”
4. Noise Level
“Choose a quiet location if possible, and soundproof it if necessary,” advises Alina Samuchenko, chief operating officer at tech startup HireDevelopersBiz.
5. Lighting
Echoing what McShane and Norman said earlier, California-based architect Pam Hutter says, “Emphasis on natural light by placing desks near windows. Add task, ambient and overhead lighting for different needs.”
Hatter also suggests that you should plan your office with purpose and efficiency in mind: “With the right setup and equipment, working from home can be both productive and enjoyable. Invest in the essentials and then add some inspiring personal touches. Your home office should make you feel motivated at the start and end of each workday,” she says.
6. Work-life balance
Finally, Norman adds, “If possible, separate your office and living space with dividers or partitions. Physical barriers can help establish boundaries between work and life.”
Samuchenko urges experts to be careful:
Plants and artwork add personality to your office and make remote work more enjoyable and focused.
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“Remember, the secret to working from home is finding or creating a space that's comfortable and productive. In other words, it's worth investing the time to plan and set up your environment; it could be half the battle for productivity and happiness.”