Design, Setup and Essentials for Maximizing
Productivity and Comfort
Working from home has redefined how we look at our home office. As working remotely has increasingly become the norm (nearly 22 million adults in the USA), our home offices have crept closer to the hearth of the home, where once they were merely an appendage to the main living space. In this new era of comfort and simplicity, we now find ourselves skipping the crowded subways, making our daily commute from the bathroom to the living room where our laptops are set up, or schlepping to the kitchen counter with our sweatpants on under our button downs for Zoom calls.
Since we spend more and more time working from the comfort of our homes, the lines between work and play become increasingly blurred. That is why it is very important to have a designated workspace, with fewer distractions; a place where you go when you mean business. With the tips and tricks we will share with you, you will never want to use the Zoom Virtual Background again, so you can show off your stylish new space!
Don’t Skimp on Comfort
What may sound like a no-brainer: a comfortable workspace is key to a successful and productive work day. However, since we want to be alert and not snoozy, it’s best to leave lounging on the bed for nap time; an ergonomic chair that will keep the aches and pains away is vital. A 2022 study found that good posture, combined with sitting comfortably, boosts concentration and productivity. Amazon has some fantastic ergonomic office chairs that keep you sitting upright for maximum productivity.
However, if the run of the mill swivel chairs are not your thing, or if you already have a seat that fits better in your workspace, you could opt for a seating cushion instead. Cushion Lab makes lumbar pillows and pressure relieving seat cushions that come in a variety of swatches, making them a great choice for people looking to add some brightness, texture or pops of color to their home office.
Furnished in Style
Once you have your seating sorted, let’s talk desks and storage. Standing desks are popular (albeit pricey) for very good reason. The fact that they are adjustable is only one of the many benefits; one can use them at any comfortable height, ensuring your neck, shoulders and arms remain comfortable without having to hunch over too much.
Filing cabinets can double as storage for smaller objects and essentials when you need a little extra space. MUJI offers some muted bamboo and clear acrylic storage organizers, which help keep your space in order. Remember: a clean and tidy office is akin to an uncluttered, focused mind.
Andrew Johnson of Giveaways said, another wonderful perk of a home office is exactly that – it is a home office. Which means you can have all the joys and comforts of your home within easy reach. If you want to share your workspace with your spouse or a roommate, you can accent the area with bean bags, or join two desks together to create a comfortable yet independent space for two. Adding textures like throw pillows and plush rugs with warm lighting create a lovely contrast to the cool, harsh interiors we often find in corporate environments. Pushing an armchair and a floor lamp in front of a bookshelf makes a cozy reading nook; a quiet retreat when you become desk-weary.
Dream Desk Decor
Elisa Bender of RevenueGeeks believes, your personal desk means you can curate your workspace in whichever way you fancy. With many modern workspaces introducing hot desking, gone are the days of decorating your own cubicle with your favorite knicknacks, postcards and desk essentials.
Since your personal space should be a reflection of your unique personality, you might find it pleasing to spruce up your desk with custom stationery! There are many creatives on Etsy who can make you gorgeous embossed “From the Desk Of” cards, and letterheads in your favorite colors.
A laptop stand is another essential item that helps keep the screen at a comfortable height and angle. Quirky tech accessories add pizzazz to otherwise boring workspaces. Whether you go for sleek headphones, a custom-made Bluetooth keyboard, or even a HomePod, you can surely mix business with pleasure. The Logitech Pebble in Tonal Rose is my personal favorite!
Mark Hanson of SunTino Solar Lights said, desk plants are a gorgeous way to bring the outdoors indoors, and many indoor potted plants also double as air purifiers. Whether you select colorfully potted succulents or long-stemmed anthuriums, your desk will become more lively and inviting.
Creating a home office that merges comfort and style can transform your remote work experience. By investing in ergonomic seating, utilizing versatile furniture, and incorporating personalized decor, you can craft a workspace that not only boosts productivity but also reflects your unique personality. Embrace the opportunity to make your home office a space where comfort and aesthetics meet, allowing you to work efficiently while enjoying the coziness of your own home.