How to Create the Perfect Home Office, According to a Professional Designer
Most of us spend at least a few hours each day working from home, whether we’re self-employed or work from home part time as an employee. And if you can’t stand your current office space, you might be surprised to learn that you don’t have to settle; there are actually several things you can do to make your home office feel like less of an afterthought and more like an efficient, productive place to work.
What Size Desk Should I Get?
When you’re looking for a desk, size definitely matters. You don’t want something that’s too small or too large for the space you have available. And, of course, you want to make sure that it’s comfortable to use.
Don’t Forget the Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the study of how people interact with their environment and how to optimize that interaction. When it comes to your home office, ergonomics is important for two reasons: comfort and productivity. A comfortable office setup will help you avoid pain and injury, while a productive one will help you get your work done more efficiently.
Desks for Every Budget
There’s no need to spend a fortune on a desk for your home office. A simple, sturdy desk will do the trick. If you’re on a budget, try IKEA or Target. For something a little nicer, try West Elm or CB2. And if you want to splurge, there are plenty of high-end options out there as well.
Maximize On Space with Wall-Mounted Desks
If you’re working with a small space, wall-mounted desks are a great way to maximize on square footage. They take up no floor space and can often be customized to your specific needs. Plus, they can add a touch of style to your home office.
Nifty DIY Solutions
If you don’t have an extra room to dedicate to a home office, try creating a nook in your living room or bedroom. Get a small desk and set it up in front of a window. Then, add some shelves above the desk for storage.
If you need privacy while you’re working, try hanging a sheet or curtains around your desk area. You can also buy inexpensive privacy screens that sit on your desk.
Make sure your office is well-lit by adding an extra lamp or two.
Choosing Your Computer
A laptop is a good choice for most people as it’s portable and easy to move around. If you have a small space, consider an all-in-one desktop computer. This type of computer has everything built into the monitor, so it doesn’t take up much room. You’ll also need to decide if you want a PC or a Mac. PCs are typically less expensive, but Macs are easier to use.
The Importance of Lighting
Lighting is one of the most important aspects of any room, but it is often overlooked in home offices. Poor lighting can lead to eye strain, headaches and even migraines. It can also make it difficult to focus on work. A well-lit office will help you avoid these problems and make your space more inviting. More to the point, are electric fireplaces tacky to even consider?
Tips For A Colorful And Organized Workspace
If you want your home office to be both stylish and functional, follow these tips from professional designer Jo Heinz. First, choose a color scheme that energizes and inspires you. Then, get organized by investing in pretty storage solutions that will keep your space tidy. Finally, add personal touches like photos and plants to make it feel like your own. With these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a home office that’s both stylish and productive.
Organizing Paperwork And Storing Important Documents
Organizing your paperwork is crucial to maintaining a productive and efficient home office. Luckily, there are a few simple tips you can follow to get started. First of all, invest in some file folders so that you have a designated place for each type of document. Once they’re organized into their respective files, it will be much easier to find what you need when it’s time to start working. As far as where to store these documents in your office space, Jo suggests labeling any filing cabinets or shelves with the name of the type of document that goes on them (i.e., PERSONAL or TAXES). Keeping those types of items separate from one another will help keep things organized even further. The next step is investing in an inbox for any new incoming documents.
Smart Storage Solutions That Eliminate Clutter
If you’re going to be spending time in your home office, you want it to be a space that’s both comfortable and efficient. Fortunately, there are plenty of smart storage solutions that can help eliminate clutter and make the most of your space.
