HOME OFFICE DESIGN TIPS
The home office has become an essential area in the home as more people continue to do their jobs from behind their front doors. While there are multiple perks about working from home, such as no long commute, more casual attire, multiple cups of free coffee, and snacks, there are some things that could be considered a downside, such as a team to bounce off ideas readily and easily access to all the supplies you need. We think that if we open up our laptops, we can be as productive as we are in the office, but our environment can have an effect on us, so here we offer some design tips that can help your office away from the office be the best it can be so you can be too.
Set your boundaries
Mixing business with pleasure can create problems with your work mood and efficiency. Your home office is your designated space to complete your projects and assignments, but working from the kitchen table or your bed can be counterproductive. When you are in an area set aside for your job, it lets your family know you are not available, well, most of the time. This also limits the number of distractions that tend to happen at home, such as the TV running, children playing, and the phone ringing. It also means you can have those Zoom meetings without fear of interruption. Try to locate an area of the home that you could turn into a quiet workplace like a spare room or even a large walk-in closet.
Know your needs
When designing a home office you need to write down everything you need to do or meet those deadlines. Ask yourself these questions to help you get started:
- If working with a computer often, will the afternoon sun hinder me from being able to see my screen? If so, think about getting some blinds that can help. Graber is a company dedicated to providing the best window treatment options. Learn more here.
- What type of equipment do you need? Will you need a large desk, standing, or one with many drawers? Do you need double screens? Maybe a phone charger (docking drawer) is located nearby to keep your device going. A printer or scanner? Knowing this will help you decide what storage is necessary.
- Multiple conference calls? Choose a location that is farther away from the main hub of the home or has easy access to a quiet area.
- Storage needs? If you have projects that need to be filed, it would be prudent to purchase or include some filing cabinets in your cabinet layout.
Your home office must cater to your specific needs to ensure you can be as productive as possible. Taking the time to go through your regular routine and daily tasks will help you know exactly what layout and items you need to accomplish your job, plus save time later.
Home office lighting
Lighting is a key element when designing an office because it affects our mood, influencing our productivity. When planning your home office, try to include these elements.
- Natural light is always the best option and should be included in some way, so try to pick a location with at least one window. Think about facing the desk toward the window in parallel so you can still see it from your peripheral vision. Looking outside also helps destress the body and reduce anxiety.
- Targeted lighting can help you get the little boost you need to see the details of what you are working on so add a desk lamp or install some LED strips.
- Avoid glares. There is nothing worse than a glare reflecting from your screen, so pay attention to the direction of the sun in your office.
Never underestimate the power of light, especially in your home office. You will be amazed at the difference light can make on your productivity. Read more about it here.
Make it yours
When designing your home office there is one key element that needs to be factored in and that is your personal tastes. Choosing colors and objects that you enjoy will help make you feel comfortable and at ease. Of course, there are not many options when it comes to computers or desks but here are some you can control.
- Artwork: select pieces that have a favorite place like the beach or have a color scheme that you enjoy, perhaps from the college you attended. Having the ability to occasionally glance up at them can help ease the mood, especially when things are not going well.
- Color schemes: paint the walls or even just one accent wall with a color that will inspire you.
- Style: if you prefer modern then choose a desk that has some metal in it may be paired with wood, or if you enjoy a more minimal approach select furniture that has a light color to it like white or even gray with maybe some floating shelves.
Your office is yours and when it reflects your personality it can go a long way to setting the right tone for you to work.
What’s best for you
Working from home is a great perk but if you don’t have the right place to get your work done you will feel anxious, frustrated, and stressed, none of these are helpful. Taking a moment to do some inventory on what you need will help you become effective and happy. Our experienced design team is ready and able to assist you in creating a home office that will make you feel great and make your boss happy. Browse our gallery of home offices to see the clients we have already helped.
