Have you ever tried to work from home but gotten distracted by dirty laundry or needy family members? Have you sat at your kitchen table only to gaze onto a pile of dishes in the sink? It’s been proven that working from home is most effective if you can separate home life from work life. No matter how frequently you work from home, having a dedicated space for work is vital for ensuring your productivity. Here’s how to create a home office and keep your efficiency high.
1. Get inspired
Search around the internet for inspiration of other home offices to help you decide what you like and don’t like. You may want to save images you like or even create a Pinterest board. Your main task here is to design a space that you both like and find useful. Here are some tips for each aspect.
Chairs: Yes, you’re looking for something attractive, but it also needs to be comfortable. Stylish chairs may not be comfortable; you have to search for both.
Desk: The same applies here. You need to find a desk that is both functional and attractive, making sure you have enough space for all the equipment or files you need.
Paint: Look for a paint color that is calming and not distracting. A red wall might make you agitated when you’re having a bad day. We recommend choosing a neutral color, relying on décor to provide pops of color.
Storage: It can be tough to find a filing cabinet that is both attractive and functional, but you will need a place to put papers you use frequently. Consider wall storage instead, using magazine racks or library-style display shelving.
In the end, what really matters is how you work best and what you need to create a home office that maximizes your productivity. Search for physical elements that will help you work best for you.
2. Incorporate lighting
Once you have the furniture for your space arranged the way you need it, consider how best to light your space. If possible, find ways to utilize natural light. Even with a small window, you can incorporate mirrors in strategic locations to help light the room with natural lighting.
You may want to consider moving your desk close to a window, parallel with the panes. Natural lighting and a bit of scenery can boost your mental health.
Of course, even the best natural lighting will need some assistance during overcast days or dark hours. Overhead lighting may not give the ambience you’re looking for. Incorporate lamps — on the desk for direct lighting and others throughout the room for better ambience.
3. Make it pretty
You need a little more than just functional furniture and good lighting. The “extras” really matter in helping create a home office that’s effective. These are the items that can inspire and relax you during stressful work situations. Here are some of those extras to consider:
Décor: Decorations should be relaxing, and not distracting, adding a bit of comfort.
Personal items: Family, pets and vacation photos can add a personal touch to make your home office feel like, well, home. Include items like mementos from your travels or your child’s artwork.
Greenery: Plants have been proven to make people happier and more relaxed. Low maintenance plants, such as succulents, can bring the outdoors in with minimal effort required on your part.
Organization: Look for ways to hide the wires and cords that are necessary but unattractive.
Did you create a home office that you love? Send us photos of your space!