As freelancing and flexi-working become increasingly popular, more and more people are opting to work from home via home offices. Working from home has its joys (casual dressing, no office politics, snacks and coffee breaks as and when you want) but unless the home office is work friendly, productivity can take a hit. Clutter, inadequate lighting, outside noises, non-ergonomical furniture, etc. can be big dampeners, pulling down your quality and quantity of work.
Here are our tips to help you set up a home office that’s both chic and productive:
1. Invest in a comfy chair and a smart desk.
Choose a desk that meets your workstation space needs. It should give you adequate surface area (preferably with some elbow room) for your laptop/PC, phone/tablet charging station, paper files and other desk accessories. Next must-get is a comfortable, ergonomic chair that supports your spine for ideal seating comfort. A swivel chair with adjustable height is great investment if other family members are going to use the office space.
2. Keep a good mix of natural and artificial light.
Ensure natural light by placing your desk close to a window. If you use computers or devices with screens, get the natural angle of light right to reduce glare. Hang sheer drapery or install roman shades with to balance privacy, light and aesthetics. Also install adequate artificial lighting to ensure adequate lighting. A good quality desk lamp and/or an overhead pendant light are great additions to your home office.
3. Keep noise levels down.
One big downer of home office are the inside and outside noises that barge in when you are trying to work – living room music, kitchen sounds, people talking, dogs barking…you get the drift. Custom curtains with insulating linings and interlinings can help keep these noise levels down. A plush rug can further help absorb noises.
4. Enhance your home office aesthetics.
Just like the rest of your home, your home office too needs to look chic and presentable. Some good decorative ideas are a good artwork or print or tapestry on the wall. A potted plant by the desk or books with colorful spines stacked neatly in a bookcase or, family pics or your kids’ drawings pinned to a mount board can give your home office your own imprint.
5. Keep it organized.
Lack of clutter and cleanliness are integral to working productively. Keep your home office neat, clean and uncluttered to boost functionality and efficiency. Use chic desk accessories to store the essentials and keep desk items to bare minimum. A desk with adequate storage drawers can keep your extra stationery and work paraphernalia hidden as well as within handy reach. Install shelves or keep a cabinet for any extra storage needs. Use smart boxes to keep your stuff secure as well as hidden. Clip all electronics cords and wires neatly.
6. Use colors that enhance your productivity.
Your home office color palette should reflect your preferences. Use neutrals like pale grays and beiges if you work best in calm, serene environments. Opt for bright and bold hues if you prefer an energetic vibe to work at highest efficiency.
Happy working from home!
