We've all experienced those days when it can be hard to find the motivation to get to work, and it can be particularly difficult when your office is also your bedroom, kitchen or living room. That's why a clean, comfortable, and convenient home office is tantamount to achieving a productive workday.
Make 2024 the year to do something about your drab home office (or lack thereof!), and resolve to upgrade your office furniture and decor to something you love! Getting motivated to go to work (even from home) and stay focused becomes surprisingly easier if your home office space looks stylish, feels energizing and promotes productivity. So, if your home workspace could use a good sprucing, we've cobbled together a few home office ideas to keep in mind when creating the ideal place to work from home.
The place where you use your computer, pour over documents, take calls, and maybe even eat your lunch, the desk is the foundation of any productive workspace. However, ensuring you get the best desk for your home office to suit your needs requires a few essential things to consider. Before you even think about buying the desk, you'll want to understand the space you have available by measuring out roughly where you'll want to place an office desk, and if it's particularly tiny or requires a specific size, make sure to keep that size in mind. Once you know the space you have to work with, it's time to consider the type of desk that's best for you.
For many of us, our home office space is a far cry from extravagant, so it's often easier to make do with the space we have by using a small office desk with drawers. Although a small desk may lack the storage potential of other options, if you're facing a limited area to work in, a smaller desk can ensure that you have sufficient space for tasks, without worrying that you won't be able to get in and out of the workspace. In terms of design, writing desks and task desks tend to feature a minimalist design that works great when paired with a modern office motif.
If you have a little extra space, the options available are much more open. A large desk not only gives you plenty of space on the surface but also tends to feature multiple storage options for additional organization. Fanciful L-shaped desks are great for getting the most out of your office by seamlessly sliding into the corner.
Regardless of the desk you choose, you can make the most out of the space by adding a sit-to-stand workstation, which is not only versatile but easy to use. Some standing desk options feature a two-shelf adjustable device that mounts directly atop your desk, holding your keyboard on the lower shelf with your monitor above, allowing you to easily adjust their height for both sitting and standing.
If you're going to be spending a good portion of your day at your desk, having the right chair can be as important as the desk itself to achieving an efficient and productive day. So, when considering your office chair, choose one that is aesthetically pleasing, ergonomically correct, and includes a comfortable seat. A chair with a vertically adjustable backrest offers you the ideal position for optimal comfort. In contrast, a mesh-bodied chair is a versatile option that provides excellent lumbar support with a semi-curved back that can sit just right. Seats featuring memory foam conform and mold to the shape of your body, ensuring a comfortable seating position regardless of movement. Office chairs are available in various materials, but the most timeless option has always been sleek leather. Leather provides longevity by resisting stains and tearing, and its classic good looks will never go out of style.
Lastly, the personal touch. Every office space includes a desk and a chair, but your home office is yours, and expressing yourself with some well-placed accessories leads to keeping you motivated to keep working. For a splash of color, adding beautiful wall art can really make a statement, while a gallery of pictures in gorgeous frames can really elevate your home office with a personal touch. A bulletin board, whiteboard and calendar are excellent for getting a little more productivity. Bring in a nice rug to spruce up your flooring, along with some colorful pillows and throws to break up the design with a beautiful pattern.
Once you've made your measurements, decided on your design, and considered your options, it's time to put it all together. Your home office space is more than a place to get your work done; it's a place where you should also feel at home. So, use these home office tips and build a workspace that works for you.