More and more people are now choosing to work from home. If you happen to be one of them, creating a space in which you can be as productive as possible is essential. There’s nothing wrong with working on the dining room table, in the kitchen, or lying in bed. However, for long periods of time and to boost creativity, the right environment is essential. If you’re considering working from home there are many things to consider. Having a comfortable chair and table is crucial, but you should also think about colour, lighting and insurance.
Let’s share some tips to help you create the perfect office space for you.
Find the Right Space
You might be lucky enough to have a wide range of options. However, if they’re limited it’s time to use your imagination. Is there a cupboard under the stairs you can turn into a workspace? What about an area in your home that you don’t use regularly? The most fundamental thing is to find a space that suits you and works for your family. You also need to be able to personalise it, so you can work comfortably.
If the only available space for your office is the smallest room in your house you’re going to have to make the most of the space. It’s OK to have an organised mess if that’s your preferred way of working, but try to maximise your space by using file dividers or boxes and drawers to store away other equipment and shelving. Additionally, investing in good furniture is crucial-choose ergonomic options that support your posture and comfort. Ensure the room is well-ventilated by adding an air purifier and giving your HVAC any necessary air conditioning repair or upgrades to maintain air quality. These adjustments will help create a productive and pleasant work environment, even in a smaller or unconventional space.
Design Your Workspace
Many things can effect how comfortable and productive you are when you work. The space should be properly lit and at the right temperature. Remember where you’re working is not a bland office cubicle, you’re allowed to do some home decor. Personalise your space and make it truly yours. You could be creative with a “live, laugh, love” sign, or even hang up your child’s art. Just remember to keep some essential equipment at hand. If you need to keep in contact with your clients or colleagues, a telephone or webcam is vital. Will there be occasions when you need to change the location of your chair? You’ll want to control the light so it’s not completely in your face or shining on your screenss. These are just a few factors to consider when designing your workspace.
Find the Right Tech Equipment
When you’re working from home your IT equipment plays an essential part in your working day so it’s crucial you can rely on it. Customers might be understanding if your work is delayed due to technological problems on the odd occasion. However, if it becomes a regular occurrence it’s not going to do much for your reputation. It’s worth spending a little extra to ensure your technology is up to date and working properly.
Ergonomic furniture is something else you need to look at, especially if you’re going to be sitting at a desk for long periods of time. Choose furniture that’s not only comfortable, but puts less risk of your neck and back. It should also be at a height that’s most comfortable for doing your work. Your chair needs to provide sufficient arm and back support, depending on the type of work you plan to do. There’s lots of information available online, so spend time doing some research before you go shopping.
Pick the Right Colour
The colour of a room can have a profound impact on the people inside. They’re able to evoke certain emotions within us, so it’s definitely something to bear in mind when you’re decorating your home office. Purple is the perfect colour because it’s known to stimulate the imagination.
Proper Lighting is Essential
If there’s a good amount of daylight in your home office it’s going to improve your mood and make you happier. Have your workstation close to a window, and you’ll be able to gaze outside when you need to take a break from looking at a computer screen. If there isn’t a window and no option of building one in, you can mimic the effects of sunlight with a lamp.
Proper lighting is another important element to consider. Having your work area correctly illuminated helps to reduce eye strain. A drum light fixture can easily brighten a room or you could even opt for spotlights for an even distribution of light. You’ll likely need lighting above your work station, on the computer and behind. This helps to avoid reflection on our monitor. Place your monitor at a comfortable distance from your chair in order to reduce squinting.
Aim for a Minimalist Approach
It’s important that everything is close at hand. However, it’s a fine line between close and cluttered. Carefully consider what you really need and try to do without as much as possible. An office that’s cluttered can be extremely distracting. If you’re constantly distracted it’ll affect your efficiency.
Make Your Workspace a Fun Place to Be
Yes, It’s your office but does that mean it should be boring? Add lots of colour and some personal touches because it’ll make the space feel more inviting. Pick a style you like and find curtains or Custom Blinds, furniture, and patterns matching that style. Choose a range of different accessories such as photos, artwork, boxes and baskets for storage.
Working from home is a great opportunity. Follow the tips above and you’ll be able to create the perfect space in your home.
