Working from home has become the norm, one that will continue long-after the global pandemic dissipates. No matter how long your working from home stint may be, it is important to set up a designated space to get your work done. Your work area needs to be a comfortable space that promotes productivity. Here are our top tips for creating a work from home space that is both functional and helps you get more done.
Choose a Dedicated Space
While working from home, you may be tempted to spend the day sitting on the sofa or even lying in bed while you work. This does not only have negative impacts on your postural health but is detrimental to your productivity.
It is imperative to have a designated space within your home that is solely for the purpose of working. This will allow your brain to make helpful associations between your living space and your workspace. In other words, when you step into your home office space, your brain can automatically switch to work mode.
Create a Garden Office
If you don’t have enough space inside your home for an office and you are looking to work from home permanently, you could consider having a garden office built. This will give you a dedicated space to work from with minimised distractions and temptations to do something other than work. Plus, you get to enjoy a whole different view.
Convert Your Loft
Loft Conversion – Courtesy of Velux
If you don’t have enough space in your house to create a home office you can convert your loft to an elevated and sunny home office space.
A loft conversion is not only a good idea for a home office, but it can also add up to 14% value to your home.
Consider Investing In Ergonomic Furniture
The current ergonomic craze may seem outrageous, but its premise is true. To work optimally and not strain your body while you’re at it, it is important to choose home office furniture that supports your postural health. Ergonomic furniture assists to lessen the pressure off your spine, hip flexors and neck.
Whilst ergonomic home office desks and chairs can be pricey, it is certainly a worthwhile investment considering the lengthy period we spend seated at a desk each day.
Aim For Great Lighting
Loft Library courtesy of Planete Decor
Another great tip is to ensure that you set up proper lighting in your home office. It is easy to underestimate the effects of your work environment on your ability to work. Optimal lighting is not an area people tend to consider, but it reduces eyestrain and fatigue and improves your mood, alertness, and productivity.
Natural lighting is ideal, but if you aren’t able to set up your home office near a window, go for an overhead lighting option such as a desk or ceiling lamp. The lighting you choose should not be in your direct field of vision or reflecting off your monitor.
Add Some Greenery
Greenery – courtesy of Architectural Digest
Whilst working in your garden may not be practical, a great addition to your home office would be to bring some of the outdoors inside. A floor or desk plant is the perfect way to add a literal breath of fresh air to your space. Interestingly, it has been scientifically proven that having even a small succulent on your desk can improve productivity and boost your mood.
Whether you’re working from home permanently or this is simply a temporary situation you must create a designated space that incorporates everything you need to conquer your to-do list. If you are looking for expert advice and professional drawings for your garden office or loft conversion, contact us for an obligation-free quote.
Banner Image courtesy of Apartment Therapy