Rather than staring at a wall, however, face your desk into the room and, as feasible, looking out a window, especially if the view is nice. It may take up more space, but it’s worth it to create a better work experience. Pair it with a comfortable and supportive chair, with adjustable arms. Alternatively, standing desks have become popular (as they say, “sitting is the new smoking”), improving blood flow, boosting energy and helping you stay focused. If you see clients in person, consider the design, comfort and placement of another chair, or a couch if space permits.
The Need for Organization
The overall layout of your office should promote productivity as well as efficiency. This flows from your central hub. By A home office is a place of productivity – but it’s also a personal space. Designing or redesigning one can be an enjoyable creative endeavor. Here are some considerations to making your home office highly functional, comfortable, easy to use and beautiful.
Location & Architecture
Whether you’re just starting out or remodeling, try to choose the best location for your office. Ideally, it should be in a place away from noise and other distractions, with a door that closes. How much space do you require? Are there windows? Do you need a closet to store items?
The Heart of the Office
Your desk is central to your work, and what you do professionally – architect or accountant, software developer or sales executive – informs its design. When choosing a desk, think about size (minimal, expansive), materials (wood, metal, glass-top), style (modern, antique) and color (to coordinate with the room). If your space is limited, think about a desk with a built-in hutch or overhead bookshelvesnow we all know the benefits of an ergonomic desk layout – one that allows your elbows to form a 90-degree angle when typing, the top of your laptop or monitor at or slightly below eye level, and 20-30 inches away.
Beyond posture, there’s reachability. Are there items that you use constantly? Put them right on your desk, held inside cups or containers as needed. Do you use your printer a lot? Don’t put it across the room. Ideally, while you are working, high-use items should be within easy reach, like a chef’s mise en place, to improve your workflow. Less frequently used storage and filing storage cabinets can be further away, helping to visually balance the room.
Lighting: Natural and Artificial
Lighting plays a transformational role in any space, including a home office. Unless you are in a basement, natural light should be part of the mix. Proven to decrease eye strain, natural light provides more balanced and evenly distributed illumination. It also boosts the production of serotonin, the hormone that enhances mood and promotes feelings of well-being.
To complement this, install dimmable lights. Overhead bulbs can be harsh and cast a shine on your head (not the best look when you’re on that Zoom call). Consider gooseneck floor lamps than crane over you and save desktop space, and ideally those with an adjustable color temperature to suit your preference.
Accessorize & Beautify
As mentioned, a home office is a personal space. It shouldn’t be all about functionality. Make it an oasis of beauty with colorful accent walls, uplifting artwork, knick-knacks on shelves, and of course oxygen-producing plants. Hang family photos, or place a few on your desk, where you can easily see them. Fill a small unused corner with something like a tall wicker basket filled with a bunch of dried cattails or faux pussy willows.
And don’t forget about the power of fragrance – peppermint, lemon, rosemary and other scents are proven mind focusers and mood enhancers in your Home Office Space. Whether it’s a bowl of fresh herbs or a plug-in diffuser, give your nose something to appreciate.
