The pandemic has highlighted the importance of having a dedicated workspace at home. After a week of working from home, I quickly noticed my productivity dropping, my focus decreasing, and my back hurting from sitting in bed all day. Whether you run your own business or are forced to work remotely, having a private space gives you the space to focus on your work at your own pace, a place to create and pursue new projects, and the opportunity to work closer to pets and loved ones.
After working from home for over a year now, I've found some ways to help me stay productive. Here are some tips, tricks, and inspiration for improving your home office.
Where to start?
• Location lock-in
Whether you have the luxury of a spare room or have to make do with a relatively empty corner of your living room, the first step is to find a spot you'll be comfortable spending most of the day in. Make sure that the spot has plenty of sunlight and light, plug points for your devices, good ventilation, and is close to a fan or a reasonable distance from your air conditioner.
• Organization is key
An organized space creates an organized mind: think of this space as the one you once chose to study for an exam: a neatly written timetable on a blackboard, a perfect chair and desk, and everything you need neatly arranged (space for your computer, other digital devices, water, notepads, stationery).
Consider all of this and organize accordingly, which will help you create a comfortable, non-chaotic environment in which to work and have fun.
Once you've done that, it's time to define your style: Get inspired by our functional, chic and totally refreshed home office ideas, from classic, industrial details to creative, outdoorsy ones.
Minimalism is best
Think plenty of natural light, practical yet chic furniture, and décor that complements your home rather than existing apart from it.
Invest in a modest writing desk
Your home isn't the ideal space to set up a workspace, and your bedroom is even less so. If you live in a city, you probably don't have any other options. Find a writing desk that's right for you – one that has plenty of legroom, isn't too bulky, and is large enough to hold all your essentials. If two people will be working at the same time, it's a good idea to choose a wide desk.
Maximize your space
Accessorize your walls to make them more functional: install hanging file folders, shelves, rods with hooks, or even a dedicated shelf to help keep office supplies close at hand.
Your space should reflect your personality
Give your space some personality. If you do it in your office, don't be shy here. This will create a well-balanced home office that is practical, comfortable, and clean. Add some scented candles, plants/succulents, fill your office with vibrant art to liven up the space, and maybe even add a few photos to keep you moving between calls.
Consider vertical storage
Opting for floor-to-ceiling shelves will help prevent things from looking cluttered.
Pay attention to lighting
A well-lit room is key to having a productive day, so choose a space near a window. Also, invest in good lighting: white light increases productivity, while yellow light often leaves people feeling tired and less productive.
Think about comfort
Purchase a foot hammock, a great item for anyone who wants to elevate their feet and relax all day long. It can be used in a variety of positions and at a desk. Purchase a comfortable memory foam chair cushion to reduce back pain by improving your posture.
Get fun and functional desk accessories
Invest in accents and accessories that will help you stay focused, productive, and comfortable at your desk all day.
• Discreet vertical phone holder
• Stainless Steel Travel Mug
• Webcam Cover
• Portable coffee maker
• Bluetooth keyboard
• Wireless charging pad
• Wireless Mouse
• Cute post-it dispenser
• Weekly Planner
• Desk plants & pots
• Water bottle
• Noise-isolating headphones
• Liquid-free screen cleaner
• Mini tabletop vacuum cleaner
• Laptop stand
• Pen and pencil holder
Here are some office ideas to inspire you.
Whether you're a writer, architect, entrepreneur, or whatever your profession, it can be hard to cram your stuff into a small desk and set up a well-stocked workspace. These ideas will help you set up a surprisingly stylish small home office.
Architectural Research
Open air workspace
Functional elegance
Cozy and chic home office
Contemporary Home Office
Proven tips for creating the perfect home office:
• Choose to work in a room without a TV.
• Keep a daily calendar or notebook in a visible place at all times.
• Make your own “Do Not Disturb” sign and hold it up when you have an important call.
• Maintaining your file cabinets, an old-fashioned way to organize, not only helps you stay focused but also cuts down on digital clutter. An organized filing system is a great indicator of a functional office space. To get organized, separate your filing system into color-coded categories and label each hanging folder as needed.
• Take a break every 30 minutes. Stand up, look away from the screen and take a two-minute walk around your house or go to the balcony to take a breather. This will help clear your mind and increase your productivity.
• Designate a space in your office for your printer and printing supplies. If you have a wireless printer, it doesn't have to be on your desk. Putting it in a cabinet or other location in your office will give you more space on your desk for other items.
FAQ:
Q: What materials should I consider when buying furniture?
The most common materials used in home office designs are metal, wood, and plastic. Different desk designs use different amounts of each, but these are by far the most common materials. Oak is one of the most common woods used in general desk designs. Maple and cherry wood are also sometimes used for desks.
Q: Can home office furniture be recycled?
Desks and chairs can be difficult to recycle, especially because of the materials they are made from. Your best bet is to resell the furniture. The most common material that can be recycled is plastic, but this recycling task can be very difficult to accomplish effectively, so choose durable materials and finishes that can be reused or repurposed.
Q: What are the dimensions of a standard desk?
Most desks are about 30 inches tall, 48 to 72 inches wide, and 24 to 36 inches deep.