Transforming a small corner of your home, or an entire room, into a dedicated office space can make a world of difference. Whether it’s carving out space in a living or dining area or transforming a smaller bedroom into an office, optimising your environment is key to boosting ‘WFH’ productivity.
With a few thoughtful upgrades, even the tiniest spaces can be turned into efficient, inspiring work zones. In this blog, we’ve got all the tips for how you can improve your home office space.
Contents
1. What is the best furniture for a home office?
2. Small home office ideas
- Corner office
- Hallway office ideas
- How to make an office in a cupboard
3. Keep it clutter free
4. How to choose the best lighting for your home
1. What is the best furniture for a home office?
When it comes to creating your perfect workspace, selecting the right home office furniture is essential. After all, you could be spending at least seven hours a day there, so it’s important that it reflects your style. Practicality is key - think about whether you need shelving, or if you require a larger desk to accommodate two screens. Choosing the right office chair is another crucial consideration as it’s important that its ergonomic. Ensure that it’s sturdy, comfortable, and offers lumbar support, so you don’t feel stiff after a long day at the computer Compare the best ergonomic office chairs for working at home here or you could opt for a standing chair which encourages movement and better posture throughout the day.
2. Small home office ideas
Offices don’t always need to be full rooms. If space is limited, or you don’t have a spare room, there are plenty of other options. All you really need is a corner space.
Corner office
If you’re thinking about placing your desk in a corner, an L-shaped desk is a great option. It provides additional surface space, with designated areas for different tasks, and ensures easy access to your computer, phone, printer and stationery.
Hallway office ideas
If you’d like to use your hallway or even if you have space on your landing, consider getting a desk and chair that can be easily folded away at the end of the working day. This can also be a handy option for the kids to use for homework, giving them a designated area for studying. There might not even be a need to buy a desk, create your own floating desk by using a countertop or sturdy shelf, which also looks really modern.
How to make an office in a cupboard
Utilising cupboard space has grown in popularity so why not install a secretary desk for a smaller space, which can be built into your walls or cabinetry? This type of desk can be hidden away when not in use so it keeps your room looking tidy when you don’t need it. You could also convert cupboards or spaces under the stairs into an office. The advantage of using a cupboard is that once you're done working, you can simply close the doors and the space will be out of sight. By incorporating shelving into these areas, you can keep your office organised.
3. Keep it clutter free
A neat and tidy office will help you stay organised and productive. To combat clutter, add shelving and storage for easy access to notebooks and other essentials. If space is limited, invest in a desk with built-in shelves or drawers. If you use a laptop riser, look for one with a compartment underneath to store documents and notebooks. A pen caddy for your desk is also a wise investment, keeping things tidy and even adding a pop of colour to your space.
4. How to choose the best lighting for your home
The right lighting is crucial for any office, no matter where it’s located in your home. Good lighting serves two purposes: it helps maintain focus and keeps you in the right frame of mind for work, while also protecting your eye health. If possible, place your desk near a window. Natural light not only boosts concentration but also ensures you get some much-needed vitamin D. Ceiling lights are ideal, especially in the winter months when days are shorter. Additionally, a standard or desk lamp with a warm bulb can create a cosy atmosphere, reducing eye strain when reading small print, books, or working on your computer.
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