Working from home (WFH) is all about being productive in a place reserved for comfort and relaxation. A study showed that productivity and job satisfaction increased when employees work remotely. The lack of commute, the ability to work in comfortable clothes, and the flexibility to work different hours all contribute to these upticks. The downside has been carving out a workspace that enables productivity. Here are some tips to design a home office that works for you.
Choose a home workspace that lets you focus.
Tuning out distractions is the most essential feature of a productive home office space. People wandering by, asking questions, and making comments is a surefire way to lose control of your time. If you’re someone who is easily distracted by activities and things around you, choose a workspace that is set apart from the daily flow of activity at home. And it must absolutely have a door!
Layer the lighting.
Lighting is both functional and decorative. Plan your home office lighting to combine task and ambient light. Ambient light is the general layer that brightens the room. The sun streaming through windows, as well as overhead fixtures, fit into this category. Also install task lighting, like a desk or floor lamp for your reading and workspaces.
Design for your workflow.
How do you move through your workspace? Do you work at a desk or are you more suited to an overstuffed chair or sofa? What do you find yourself getting up for throughout your day? Maybe you use your printer or spread out materials on a work table. Set up your office like you would a kitchen, in zones. Create smooth traffic flow from one zone to the next.
Consider ergonomics.
You probably spend a considerable amount of your day sitting. An ergonomically designed office chair may be pricey but getting support for your body is worth the investment—like buying a really good mattress because you spend one-third of your day lying on it. Refer to an ergonomic workspace planner to make sure your desk, chair, and monitor are positioned correctly for your height.
Sitting too much can lead to various health issues. A standing desk or desk extender might be a good option. Standing desks can be adjusted to your height, and have been proven to increase productivity for users. Stand, stretch, and give your back a break while still getting your work done.
Double up your monitors.
Add a second monitor to your workspace, rather than juggling multiple open windows on one screen. Many work-from-homers comment that this approach improves their productivity. When choosing a second monitor, particularly a large screen, pay attention to the screen resolution and pixel density so you have a quality picture.
Use organization in every direction.
Look at the storage potential in your home office. Use your vertical space (walls) so you free up floor space. Add cabinets or open shelving, depending on your preference. A shelf over a window or doorway expands your storage, too.
Establish a thinking space.
Brainstorming doesn’t always happen while sitting at your desk or staring at the same old computer screen. Establish a dedicated space to creatively ponder solutions. It could be as simple as a whiteboard on the wall where you can explore mind-mapping. Ask yourself, “what helps me clear my head and refocus?” The answer will tell you what your thinking space needs.
Choose colors and decor that energize you.
Your office is like any other part of your home. It fulfills a function. Approach the home office color palette to promote the type of energy you want in this flex space—like calm or vibrant. Add decor that sparks a positive feeling, but don’t overdo the space with too many decorative pieces or photos. Remember, it’s a workplace. Design it that way.
Set up a Zoom-ready background.
When you’re on a video conference call, do you notice the backdrop of the other attendees? Make sure you present a professional look for your meetings by setting up a background in your office that is neutral—without distracting items—and where the lighting doesn’t cast awkward shadows or too much brightness.
Exert cord control.
More technology means more cords. If you have a jumble of cords and cables, it’s not just unsightly, but also presents a tripping hazard. Explore cord control solutions so you can avoid the tangle and keep those snaking wires and your power sources neatly organized. For additional resources on actual work from home equipment, there are some fantastic places to check reviews and recommendations.
Start new with New Home Inc.
At New Home Inc, we’re taking an innovative approach to new home design and construction. Our Raleigh area homes reflect extensive research into the way people want to live in their homes, now and in the years ahead. New Home Inc’s future-proof floor plans always include flex space, so you have extra room for your extra needs, like a dedicated home office. If you’re thinking about exploring homes for sale in Raleigh, put New Home Inc’s specialists to work for you.
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