Today, working from home indefinitely has become the new norm, and people are finding it quite a feasible alternative, actually. Aside from flexible work hours and better productivity, the fact that one can do the same job from the confines of their own home has led people to adopt this lifestyle change with gusto.
However, working from home requires you to set up a proper office space. While it’s easy to put up your work paraphernalia anywhere you want, you can’t compromise your physical comfort and ergonomics because of it. So, here are some great ways to create an office space in any room:
1. Find a feasible desk location
You only work diligently if you have a proper desk area to accommodate all your work paraphernalia. Therefore, you need to find the proper desk space around your home. You can replace one of the end tables in your living room for a compact work desk. Or you can set up a writing desk in front of your living room or bedroom window. Alternately, you can also find a spare alcove or nook and set up a corner desk over there. You can also empty out your small store room or closet space and set up your desk inside.
Pro tip: You also need an ergonomic chair to complement your desk. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a bad posture and poor lumbar support.
2. Finding the best window position
An abundance of natural light can help you boost your productivity when working. Therefore, it’s imperative that you choose the best location for your desk near a window. Ideally, the window should be positioned at the side of the desk, so that the strong light won’t damage or overwork your eyes.
It’s also recommended to place your desk on the side of the window that’s opposite to your writing hang. For example, if you’re a rightie, then the window should be on your left to avoid shadows when you’re writing.
However, if you don’t have the option to have a window on your side, then facing the window would be the next best solution since turning your back on the window will create a lot of glare. You can avoid direct sunlight by hanging sheer drapes on decorative curtain rods or opaque blinds to let in the diffused light.
3. Multipurpose office furniture
If you’re the kind of person who doesn’t want a set office space in their home, then you’ll want to look at multipurpose office furniture. It consists of smart, foldable items that can be moved anywhere you need. So, even if you feel like setting up your workspace in the porch to enjoy the breezy spring morning, then this type of furniture can help you do even that. Some modern variations can even be stored inside the wall like a Murphy’s bed.
4. For the love of good lighting
Have you ever tried working in a dim ambiance? It’s not only depressing but also takes away from your mojo. In contrast, good lighting can help improve your focus. This is one of the reasons why you should set up your office near a window. But if that’s not a feasible option, then you need to invest in good lighting.
For paper focused work with a lot of reading and reviewing, a good desk lamp with excellent task lighting is a good option. But if your work is computer-based, then focus on good ambient lighting. Look for other ways to brighten your home as well. You’ll definitely see an improvement in your mood when working.
5. Never underestimate your need for storage
An office isn’t an office (even when it is home based) without all that paper and file clutter. This brings us to the never-ending need for good storage. You can’t have all your things scattered across the desk all the time. You need to invest in proper storage units. These might include wall-mount acrylic file holders or movable storage boxes with castor wheels. Minimalist storage shelves and file storage is also a good combo. But if you really want to get rid of it all, then you can also scan everything on your computer.
So, these are some tips that can help you design a workspace anywhere in your home while you’re working indefinitely from there. We hope this guide helps you structure all your important office essentials at home in the best possible way!
By Zana Dodig
About the Author
Zana Dodig is a window treatments consultant with over 20 years of experience and loves helping others to cover their windows stylishly. She works as a window treatment consultant and writer.
