Working from home is something more and more people are now able to do. It has many benefits, including no commute, a better work-life balance, more time to see family and the ability to create a space you want to work in. Here we share a few tips on how to create an office space that others will envy (and you’ll enjoy every day).
Get inspired
Have a look on Pinterest or any design website where you can get inspiration. There are thousands of sites out there you can use to work out what you want. But always remember you have to work in this space. It’s no good if it looks fantastic but isn’t practical. So a bureau that looks like Charles Dickens would have used it will look great. But imagine sitting at it, trying to sort through files and papers. Probably not the most practical solution. Same with chairs – remember you’ll be sitting in it for a big chunk of each day. So choose with comfort in mind.
Think about the location
You want to be able to escape from the domestic side of your home when you’re working. So try to make it somewhere that doesn’t have through traffic heading for the kitchen. And remember to think practically too. Is your chosen room near the router? Can you get another hub and place it in your office? Does the room get direct sunlight all day? This can be a bit of a pain if it’s on your computer screen all day.
Get the ergonomics right
Many people will think “pah!” when they see a big work like ergonomics. Not us. We know it just means being comfortable as you work. It covers many things – from the height of your computer screen, to the position and support of your chair, to how your hands interact with the keyboard.
For example, the height of your computer screen. The top of your computer screen should be around eye level (or even slightly below). This will make a big difference to how tired you become (or how relaxed you stay). And lots of these little things can have a huge impact on whether you’re comfortable working from home.
Storage is a major factor
You don’t want your fancy office to become a blizzard of paperwork. So plan ahead. Filing cabinets aren’t the most attractive pieces of furniture but you can customise them. Or go for bookshelves that will look good as a backdrop to any video conferencing you do (as well as being practical). Or convert a cupboard and set it up as a filing space. Find a solution that works for you. Otherwise you’ll spend a huge amount of time looking for files and articles.
Think green and smile
Plants have been shown to make people happier. So add a few to your space. They’re living things and will become a part of your office as you spend time there. And they improve air quality and provide oxygen – an important factor in keeping your brain working well. They also reduce stress and create a feeling of wellbeing.
Light the office properly
Natural light is fantastic and the healthiest light to work in. But there will be times (mainly due to our weather) where you’ll need additional lighting. Make sure your lighting requirements are looked after. In general, overhead house lights create a space with all the warmth of a hotel reception. So look at table lamps or Anglepoise lamps to give you the best light and also the best look.
Remember your security
A home office stuffed with technology could be a prime target for thieves. So make sure you keep regular back-ups (off-site) of your work and keep your your important files in a lockable cabinet. You’ll also need to ensure your home insurance covers you to work from home.
Let’s get started
If you need to clear some space to make your office project achievable we’re here to help. Give us a call or pop in and see how we can help open up a space for you to create the perfect home office in.