8 Home Office Design Tips to Boost Productivity

One of the few good things to come out of 2020 is the normalization of people working from home. Setting up a home office can seem daunting, especially if you need a dedicated room or workspace. But with some creativity and the right design tips, you can transform any corner of your home into a functional and inspiring office. Today, we are sharing eight home office design tips to help you boost your productivity and creativity while working from home.

Choose The Right Location

The first step in designing a home office is choosing the correct location. Ideally, your home office should be in a quiet and remote area of your home, away from distractions and noise. A spare bedroom, a basement, or a living room corner could be great options. If you don't have a separate room, you could use a divider or screen to create a sense of privacy and separation. If you don’t have a secluded space to use, you can consider an addition or buying soundproof blocks to put on the walls if you have a lot of calls.

Invest in a Supportive Chair and Desk

A comfortable and ergonomic chair and desk are essential for any home office. When shopping for a chair, look for one that offers lumbar support, easy adjustment, and a sturdy base. For the desk, choose one large enough for your computer, paperwork, and other work essentials and ideally has storage options. An L-shaped desk can be a great choice as it provides plenty of workspace and can fit neatly in a corner or a standing desk with adjustable heights to make it the most comfortable for you and allow you the option to stand, bounce on an exercise ball, or walk while working.

Bring in Natural Light and Plants 

Natural light is essential for a healthy and productive workspace. Position your desk near a window and angle it to avoid glare. If your space doesn't have windows, consider using bright, full-spectrum light bulbs that mimic natural light. Plants are also an excellent way to bring life to your workspace and improve air quality. Some great options include succulents, snake plants, and pothos.

Add Personal Touches 

Your home office should reflect your personality and taste, so don't be afraid to add personal touches like artwork, family photos, or mementos. These items can help inspire and motivate you while working. Just be sure to keep any decorations or knick-knacks organized so that your space feels clear and comfortable.

Keep it Organized 

An organized workspace is key to productivity and creativity. Use desktop organizers, file cabinets, and Shelves to keep your paperwork, supplies, and equipment tidy and accessible. Consider using a bulletin board or whiteboard for to-do lists, deadlines, and inspiration. Another way to keep your space organized and personal is by adding custom built-ins like cabinets and shelving.

Use Colors and Patterns 

Colors and patterns can significantly impact your mood and productivity. Choose colors that promote calmness and focus, such as blues, greens, and neutrals. You could also add a pop of color with accent pieces like pillows, rugs, or curtains. Patterns can be useful for breaking up a monotonous space, but be careful not to overdo it or choose too busy or distracting patterns.

Invest in Reliable Technology

Working from home requires reliable and efficient technology, so invest in good quality equipment like a dependable internet service and a fast computer. Also, consider investing in a second monitor or a docking station to increase your screen space and multitasking abilities.

Take Breaks and Move Around 

Finally, remember to take breaks and move around regularly. Prolonged sitting can be damaging to your health and productivity. Take a few minutes every hour to stretch, walk around, or do a quick exercise routine. This can help you stay energized and focused throughout the day.

Designing a home office can be a fun and creative project that can boost your productivity and creativity while working from home. Following these eight design tips, you can transform any space into a functional and inspiring workspace that reflects your style. If you still feel overwhelmed by the task and don’t want to add another thing to work on, we’d happily take designing a home office off of your to-do list. Schedule an appointment today!