Nowadays, with the many advances in technology and communication, we are seeing more and more people transitioning from the corporate office environment into a home office. Working from home definitely has its perks: You get to create your own schedule, avoid commuting, and even stay in your pajamas all day if you choose! But while working comfortably from your own abode has its many advantages, it can also present some challenges, like more distractions.
Whether you use your home office to run your business, pay the bills, or browse the internet, making your workspace both functional and comfortable can greatly improve your productivity.
Here are 10 tips to help guide you in creating an inspiring and practical home office you’ll actually want to work in!
1. Pick a Location Free From Distractions
Where you set up your home office is essential to your productivity. Start by making yourself a separate office space or dedicated work area. A room with a door–to help eliminate noise– windows and no TV is best.
2. Build It In
Don’t sacrifice style or functionality simply because you’re short on square footage. Transform a small nook or corner into a beautiful office space with custom cabinetry and built-in shelving.
3. Choose Furniture That Works For You
Your desk, shelves, and storage should serve you, not the other way around. Think about your workflow, items you need at your fingertips as well as any basic office items you need, like your computer and printer. For example, if your office also functions as your place of business, you may want to consider getting pull-up chairs for meetings with clients along with a credenza to neatly store documents, etc.
4. Invest in a great chair
You spend long hours sitting in your office chair. An ergonomic seat with proper support is worth investing in–your back will thank you. Browse our modern office chairs!
5. Master Your Technology
Managing your work is stressful enough, dealing with tangled, unsightly cords doesn’t need to be. We offer a wide variety of desks, credenzas, and cabinets with wire management to keep those unsightly cords out of view. Browse here!
6. Go Green
Not only do plants add color and life into a room but they’re proven to increase productivity and reduce stress. Reap the benefits by incorporating plants that require minimal care, like succulents or orchids.
7. Get Organized
It’s so easy for your desk to pile up with papers and excess office supplies. But there’s nothing worse than not being able to find what you need, when you need it. Find an organizing system that works for you. Give everything that could end up in your office a home, from bills, to paperwork, to office supplies, to books, and magazines. By utilizing decorative storage boxes, trays, or cabinets to corral office supplies and house files and papers, you’ll be better able to maintain an orderly and stress-free environment.
8. Select Smart Colors
Before deciding on a color scheme for your office, consider the effect certain colors have on your mood. If you like bright hues, go for orange or yellow. Both are said to inspire creativity, energy, and increase the ability to concentrate and focus. For those who prefer less vibrant hues, opt for a botanical green or calming light blue.
9. Inspire with Artwork
Though you’ll want to create an environment in which you can focus, it’s important that your home office also be a space that brings you inspiration and motivation. Dress up your walls with paintings, photos, or wall sculptures that speak to you. Not only will it help keep you inspired, but incorporating art you love into your decor will also personalize your space. Browse our modern art to get inspired!
10. Let the Light In
Here’s a bright idea: make sure your office is sufficiently lit with both natural light and added lighting. Having plenty of natural light is refreshing and energizing– two very important elements for maintaining maximum productivity. Just make sure to position your computer monitor so there is no glare from a window. You can also add a sheer drape or a window treatment to eliminate the glare but still allow for natural light to flood in. Lastly, add a small table lamp on your desk for task lighting.
Now that you’ve got the inside scoop, are you ready to create your home office? Shop our vast collection of modern office furniture, from functional desks, to executive chairs, to files and storage. And if you need any additional design help, feel free to connect with one of our modern interior designers who can help bring your vision to life.