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Working from home is more popular now than ever before, but many of us are left wondering how to create a space that promotes the productivity we need. The first thing you need to do is work out what you need from your new home office and how you are going to separate it from the rest of your home so that you still get that feeling of going to and leaving work each day. We know that deciding where to put everything can be challenging and so we have come up with some helpful tips to enable you to create the space you need.
Consider Your Tech Needs
The first thing you need to think about is the technology you need to be effective during the day. Most of us will have computers, mobile phones, printers and tablets for work and so you must consider a space that has access to enough sockets to keep you powered up and ready to go.
If you have too many wires, your work area will look unkempt, and this can harm your productivity. Therefore, look for smart ways of charging your devices so that you don’t have to be swapping cables around constantly. Use wireless charging points, USB charging cables and power packs to keep everything running during the day and remember to plug everything in that needs charging at the end of the day, so you are ready for the morning.
Select a Comfortable Chair and Desk
Another vital aspect when planning a home office is the desk and chair you plan to use. Your desk needs to fit well in the space but also have enough room to fit all your work items and leave room for you. You can choose a desk with storage or opt for something that fits with the style of your house. Whatever you do, try to choose with functionality in mind.
When it comes to your chair, you need to invest in one that protects your back and provides you with the comfort you need for a full day’s work. Find one that is fully adjustable so that you can maintain a good posture and get the height right to fit with your new desk.
Invest In Storage
A cluttered space is not conducive to a good working environment and will slow down the speed in which you can work. The best way to handle this is to invest in some sturdy storage that can house all your papers and stationery, leaving you with a mess-free workspace to enjoy.
Storage options include freestanding drawers, shelves, desk tidies and even fitted cupboards. The best way to work out your storage needs is to look at your desk and decide what needs to live on it and what could be put away. Once the storage is in place, you will feel freer and more focused on the tasks in front of you.
Consider Soundproofing
If you live with others and find distractions hard to cope with then soundproofing your home office space may be the way forward. Soundproof plasterboards like the MuteBoard 2 are easy to install, and there are plenty of great flooring options that will help to dull the sounds that come through into your space.
Soundproofing is also great if you have to join lots of virtual meetings, especially when confidential items are being discussed. If you don’t have the cash to cover replastering and redecoration, then consider carpeted floors or rugs and cushions to help absorb sound, leaving you with a more peaceful space.
Review Your Lighting
When you are working at home, you will need to have as much access to natural light as possible, especially if you stare at a computer screen all day long. Locating your desk near windows or French doors is a great way to maximise lighting but be careful that you aren’t then plagued by a glare that stops you being able to see your screen.
If you work after dark, you will need to get a good desk lamp that can provide you with directed light on your workspace. There are so many great options that you will be able to find something that fits perfectly with the design of your space.
Working from home may be the new norm, but it is essential that to get the most from it, you need to take the time to plan out a decent workspace. Use our tips as a starting point and design your perfect workspace today.