Your home is your castle. Watching TV, cooking, eating, or relaxing are all part of what makes being at home enjoyable. Still, sometimes you’ll have to work. With that in mind, you will need an appropriate workstation. Everyone should know these tips for designing the perfect home office to create the workspace they deserve.
Location
A home office doesn’t have to be its own room. Depending on your budget, you can have an independent home office, work in your library, or even just utilize a desk and chair in a kitchen corner. Your office can be wherever you want, but the trick is to have it in a space where you’ll be productive. An office is a place to work. While you can relax, ultimately, you want a space where you feel comfortable. You want to avoid distractions as much as possible.
Decorations and Design
Paint color, decorations, and accessories all have a role in your office design. You’re free to design in any style you like. Take into consideration how paint color affects your mood. Bright colors can stimulate and invigorate thinking. Dark colors can be calming and stress-reducing. You should paint the room according to whichever mood you want your space to elicit. Similarly, add decorations and accessories that are appropriate to your office space. Notepads, notepaper, pens, pencils, sticky notes, and other office supplies are must-haves. Don’t be afraid to add some personal items, such as a signed football or your favorite movie poster. This way, you create a proficient workspace while keeping your personal style.
Lighting
Good lighting ensures visual stimulation with no eye strain or headaches. Make use of natural lighting as much as possible. You can install translucent window shades to reduce glare on your computer/laptop monitor. Not to mention, you can install an overhead ceiling light or floor lamps for more light. Your desk should have a lamp too, so you can see your workspace.
Desk and Chair
A high-quality desk and chair are necessary features for any work station. Select a desk that fits in the vicinity without impeding workflow. You will have to fit your computer and office materials on it, so make sure that whichever desk you choose is sturdy. Likewise, you should invest in a high-quality office chair. For example, an ergonomic office chair can greatly improve productivity.
Storage and Shelving
You will need to find items with relative ease. That’s why good storage and shelving units should be added to your room design. Shelves, filing cabinets, cupboards, and storage bins are all great options. A trustworthy filing system will keep your workflow smooth and minimize clutter. Also, remember to keep reference materials—such as manuals, catalogs, reference books—together.
Technology
Another essential to have is technology. Any home office should have a wireless router, wireless printer, desktop or laptop, and wireless mouse. Make sure to keep wires along your desk leg or on its underside to minimize any clutter.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.