Since the pandemic, working from home has become the norm for many. Whether you're fully remote or embracing a hybrid work model, creating a home office that enhances your efficiency and well-being is so important. So, how do you achieve this?
A great WFH space should be more than just functional; it needs to be tidy, comfortable, and inspiring. Ideally you want the space to blend with the décor in the rest of your home, but ultimately it needs to be a space you enjoy spending time in.
Whether you're setting up a new home office or revamping an existing one, these tips will help you create a workspace that you'll love and thrive in.
Understand Your Space and Needs
Before diving in, its important to assess the space that you have available. If your home has a dedicated study, you're well prepared. However, in an age when homes are getting smaller and many properties weren't designed with remote working in mind, integrating a workspace into your living area can be challenging.
Within your space it is important to consider natural light, identify sources of natural light and if your space allows, plan to position your desk to take advantage of it. Begin to measure your space, knowing the dimensions of your space will help you determine what furniture and accessories will fit comfortably without overcrowding the area. Start to think about what you need for your usual workday—laptop, computer, essential paperwork, or specific tools. This will help you prioritise your setup and ensure you have everything you need at your fingertips.
Choose the Right Furniture
Selecting the right furniture is crucial for your comfort and productivity. As you may know Shelved originated from the office furniture world, with our parent company being the UKs largest OEM manufacturer for the office furniture industry, we feel we are in a great position to give this advice.
Now this might sound very obvious, but it is so important to invest in the right desk. Choose a desk with enough space for your work materials and equipment. Adjustable desks that allow you to switch between sitting and standing are great for promoting movement. If you are short of space, consider a modular desk, these are compact but still ergonomic.
You also need a high-quality, stylish chair. Comfort is key since you'll likely spend a lot of time at your desk. This needn't mean sacrificing style. If you have a separate home office with room to manoeuvre, seek out an elegant take on a desk chair that provides proper lumbar support. If your chair has to become part of your living space, you can consider style slightly more but always make sure your chair supports your lower back.
Organisation and Storage
Just like in any space, in an office, clutter can be a major distraction, so good storage is essential. An organised workspace can significantly impact your productivity and mood. Incorporate functional storage solutions like modular shelving units, filing cabinets, and drawers to keep your workspace organised.
Modular shelving units are incredibly versatile. They can be configured to fit any space, whether you have a dedicated home office or are carving out a nook in another room. Use these units to store books, supplies, and decorative items. They can also act as room dividers if you don't have a separate office space, providing both storage and a sense of separation.
Keep your desk clutter-free by regularly tidying up and finding a place for everything. Cords and cables can quickly become tangled and unsightly. Use cable organisers to keep them tidy and out of sight. This not only makes your workspace look cleaner but also reduces the risk of tripping over loose cables and makes it easier to move equipment around.
Add Personal Touches
Personal touches can transform an office space into a place that brings you joy. Colour is a powerful thing, and choosing the right palette for your place of work can help create an environment that’s right for you. Are you energised and inspired by a bold shade? Or do you seek a calm, restful space? Colours like blue and green are known to promote calm and focus, while yellow can boost creativity. Think about how you want it to feel and then crack open the paint for a cost-effective transformation.
Decorate your office with artwork that you love. This could be anything from framed prints and posters to original pieces of art. Art can inspire creativity and make your workspace feel more like your own. Personal mementos, such as photos of loved ones, souvenirs from travels, or meaningful objects, can also make your office feel more inviting and personal.
Plants are a wonderful addition to any office space. They add a touch of nature and beauty, and they also improve air quality and can reduce stress. Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or snake plants if you’re worried about upkeep.
