The events of 2020 saw thousands of people work from home, turning their dining room tables, living rooms and kitchens into makeshift offices. But now it’s time to upgrade them — and even if you have a dedicated office — you have probably spent so much time in the room, you may also want to change it up a little.
Upgrading your home office doesn’t have to break the bank; we’re going to reveal some simple hacks which can help you transform a room you spend hours a day in to make it as comfortable and appealing as possible.
Make a splash with color
Painting your walls is one of the easiest ways to transform your room. It doesn’t require as much effort as wallpapering (setting up the pasting table and getting the paper cut perfectly) and is much cheaper than wallpaper. When it comes to painting, you should choose the right color for you.
According to research, an office color should be subtle. Think about the effects colors have. White is often associated with hospitals and thought of as clinical, the color blue is thought to stimulate the mind and increase productivity — a great option for an office.
Be organized
Out of sight, out of mind. Having an organised office space can help in many ways, as it can help you prioritize tasks, get jobs done more efficiently and improve your mood. Simple storage solutions can help upgrade your office’s organization.
Add floating shelves to free up floor space and use these to store files or items you don’t always need. Add a cupboard or standing shelves close to your desk for items you need frequently and regularly so they are easily accessible.
Add light
Adding light to any room can change it, but adding this to an office can also have a positive impact on your health. Poor lighting can cause many issues, including lack of motivation, reduce energy, eye strain and headaches.
We’re not expecting you to change your windows, but one of the best ways to add light is to think about your window dressing. Simply using curtains or a roller blind which can expose the whole window to allow light to pour into the room is a great way to add natural light into your office.
Prioritize comfort
One of the most important things in your office is the level of comfort. If you’re spending eight hours a day at a desk, you want it to be in the optimal position. Ensure your screen is at the right level and if you use a laptop, getting a dock or raiser for it to sit on can help take pressure off your neck.
When it comes to your back, you should invest in a high-quality chair which has good lumbar support. You should also look at getting an office chair with castors to provide “optimal maneuverability”.
Making small and simple changes can have huge benefits on your office and your health. Consider these tips and enjoy working in your home office for the foreseeable future.