Working from home for at least part of the week has become the norm in recent years, leading to the rise of home offices, whether they be a dedicated room or a cozy corner of the home.
Home office ideas have a lot to consider, from desks and chairs to lighting and storage, but you shouldn't underestimate the power of decorating with the right artwork.
We already know that art can boost happiness in the home, but similarly, the artwork we surround ourselves with while working can impact us and our productivity levels. So what kind of art should we look at while working from home? We consulted the experts to dig deep to find out the answer…
The best home office art to boost your productivity
(Image courtesy of Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)
If you need decor ideas for your home office (maybe you're decorating your first home office, like I am right now), or you're struggling with a drop in productivity while working from home, it's important to recognize the patterns that are unconsciously stressing you out and what types of images and prints help you stay focused and productive.
“Just as colors can have a profound effect on our mood, images and patterns can have a positive impact on work productivity,” says Impulse Therapy psychologist Lee Langham, PhD. “What's more, certain patterns and shapes have also been said to help us be more creative and improve our overall sense of well-being.”
Dr. Lee Langham
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Impulse Therapy Psychologist
Dr. RY Langham has been successfully treating OCD and related disorders for over 10 years using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which incorporates elements of mindfulness- and compassion-focused therapy.
Dr Lee also points to research conducted by the British Council for Offices, which found that “by providing artwork in the workplace, companies can reduce employee stress, increase creativity and encourage conversation and expression,” meaning the same benefits can be replicated in a home office environment – although conversation may die out if you don't have coworkers at home.
“Incorporating the right images and prints into your office or home office can make a huge difference not only to your productivity, but also in creating a space that you truly enjoy spending time in,” adds Steven Stokes, founder of Print Panoramics.
So what types of images should you add to your home office?
(Image courtesy of Future PLC/Jon Day)
“What images we find most productive is of course subjective – what is motivating for one person will be different for another,” says Dr Harriet Short, Associate Professor of Organisation Studies at Bristol Business School, and an expert on all things organisational and workspace.
“Research shows that when we, as individuals, have free rein to choose the artwork and images we surround ourselves with, we are more productive at work and generally happier. A tidy, sterile, sterile workspace doesn't make you feel productive. We need to design humanity into the workplace.”
While this is somewhat subjective, our experts agree on several types of imagery that are proven to inspire productivity at work.
Nature themed prints
(Image courtesy of Future PLC)
Nature-themed prints top the list for workspaces and pair well with the most recommended home office color schemes, including blues and greens.
“Images of nature, such as water, hills and plants, are said to help us feel more calm and peaceful,” Dr Lee explains. “They can reduce stress and anxiety and improve focus. Nature images and their biophilic design have the inherent ability that the brain automatically associates with feelings of relaxation, making them extremely effective for mental fatigue and stress.”
“When it comes to colour, cool colours like blue and green are known to enhance focus and efficiency, and also have a calming effect,” she continues. “The University of Sussex evaluated the use of certain colours in offices and found that blue stimulates the mind and encourages conversation.”
“Recent research in the field of biophilic design also recommends the use of imagery and artwork,” Dr Harriet adds, “but specifically artwork that relates to humans' connections with nature and the natural environment. How these types of images make people feel in the workplace is again subjective, but many researchers believe they can have a positive impact on productivity, well-being and reduced stress levels.”
Abstract art
(Image courtesy of Future PLC/Paul Massey)
Abstract art may be the polar opposite of natural landscapes, but this option can also be a great way to inspire creativity and productivity.
“Abstract art with vibrant colours can inspire your creativity and help you come up with fresh ideas. The vibrant colours of abstract art stimulate the brain and encourage creative thinking,” says Steven from Print Panoramics.
“Decorating your walls with calming, bold, abstract prints will fill your home office with an uplifting atmosphere,” adds Annika Wallin, executive creative director at art print brand Desenio.
Both Steven and Annika suggest bold, vibrant colours to contrast with the calming blues and greens that Dr Lee recommends. “Bright, bold colours in your workspace can add energy and lift your mood,” says Annika.
Geometric pattern
Similar to abstract prints, some geometric patterns also have a concentration-boosting effect, making them great for boosting productivity.
“Geometric patterns, as long as they're not too complicated, can actually stimulate the brain and help you focus,” Dr. Lee says. “Experts have also found that the right kinds of geometric patterns can actually stimulate the brain.”
Motivational Quotes
(Image courtesy of Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)
Another idea for decorating the walls of your home office is to print inspirational quotes. Sure, some of them sound cheesy. But the trick is to choose quotes that actually motivate and inspire you. Check out your favorite retailers or those that have handy home decor discount codes to find inspirational quotes that speak to you.
“Motivational prints remind us of our goals and aspirations and motivate us to work towards them,” says Steven from Print Panoramics.
“Motivational quote prints can help boost both your mental health and work productivity throughout the day,” agrees Annica of Desenio. “Adding a motivational quote print can serve as a fun reminder that every day is a chance for a fresh start.”
We think this may be the end of the occasional unproductive work-from-home day once and for all.