Photos By: Stock Images

With more and more employees working from home full-time or opting for the hybrid scheme following the impact of Covid-19 on public offices, a frequently asked question is, how do I create the perfect home office space? Working from home is not always fun and games, it can actually be somewhat difficult to function and be productive while working at home. Some employees struggle to differentiate between downtime and work time, and when relaxing and working hard is carried out in the same environment, it can be hard to differentiate at times. This is why we believe that it is important to acquire a separate space to perform office duties, that is somewhere other than your bed or bedroom. Do not panic, if you are lost for ideas on how to set up this space, stay tuned.

A Versatile Desk 

Your workspace surface is one of the most important aspects of your new home office space. Working from your lap is unadvised as it can be uncomfortable and aggravating throughout the working day. Alongside this, hunching over a laptop all day can be extremely uncomfortable on your body, especially your back. It is a known fact that office employees can suffer from long-term back issues due to remaining in one position for a continuous seven or eight hours throughout the day. If you are one of these individuals looking to reduce back pain and uncomfortableness, why not opt for an electric standing desk? These desks can easily plug into your main electricity and with the simple click of a button, the desk can easily adjust up and down. This means that one hour you can be sitting down, while the next standing up, giving you the chance to alter your body positioning throughout the working day. Another top tip we have is to ensure that your desk space remains clean and organised. Although clutter is sometimes inevitable, it is vital to keep your desk space as clean as possible. In studies, clutter has been connected to reduced productivity, and the last thing you want is a lower output of work due to your surrounding mess.

An Ergonomic Chair 

On the note of back pain, your chair situation is the next key part of producing your home office. We would advise ensuring that your budget is not too tight when purchasing your office chair, as, after all, it will be well used throughout the day. It is important to opt for a chair that is multifunctional with several features as this will all contribute towards how comfortable you will be throughout the day. Try to choose a chair that will easily glide around the floor with caster wheels, the chair should also be revolving as you want to be able to easily make movements around the office. For example, this will be helpful when you need to slide to your nearest filing or storage cabinet to grab some paperwork. Having a chair with an adjustable back is also advised as this will contribute towards comfort too.

Electronic Devices

How could we forget about the devices that are vital in performing our work duties? Electronic devices are a must-have within your home office space as employees are highly dependent on laptops and computers. However, alongside these, why not keep your office space ultra-modern by incorporating a few smart devices such as a smart TV or a smart speaker. A smart TV can easily be placed on your wall and can be used for entertainment purposes during breaks or even to project a meeting onto! You will feel as though you have never even left the public office. Click here for TV wall mounting services. A smart speaker such as an Amazon Alexa or Google Home will also be a perfect addition to the room, after all, when you are alone all day, nothing will beat communicating and making requests to your very own personal assistant!

Storage Facilities 

As previously explained, clutter contributes massively to your productivity, therefore having storage facilities throughout your office space is a must-have. Try to invest in filing cabinets, shelving, sideboards, or even a bookshelf, this all depends on the style and design of your office and the storage facilities that will fit best within the room. The key to a successful working from home routine is staying organised. After all, it can be easy to fall into a trap of being unproductive within your home, and knowing where everything is will help you keep on top of that.

Add Greenery 

Did you know that plants contribute positively to your health? Oh, and your brain! Recent studies on plants have shown that not only do plants contribute massively towards your health, but they also stimulate a positive mind and maximise productivity. Injecting some bright green into your office space would also energise the area, making it look a lot more vibrant. A simple plant, in a pot, next to your desk would easily brighten the space up, or if you have a bigger space to fill, you could even opt for a large plant such as a palm tree or ficus tree for the corner of the room. Bringing the outdoors indoors will stimulate a brighter and more natural home office space.

Photos By: Unsplash

Working from home sounds like a blast. No long commute! No office politics! No small talk! But in reality, it’s an adjustment. Your office space plays a key role in your overall productivity. And recreating such an environment at home can be a challenge. If you’re struggling to feel motivated at home, we’re happy to help. In this post, we’re sharing some must-haves that will improve the functionality of your home office. Take a look. 

1. Adjustable Desk

Sure, your kitchen island or dining table is doing the job of an office desk. But it’s perhaps not the best in the long run. A desk that’s too high or too low can cause neck and back issues. Instead of going for a regular desk, invest in an adjustable desk. With an adjustable desk in your home office, you will have the option to stand and work if you haven’t moved around in a bit.

2. Ergonomic Office Chair

Similar to an adjustable desk, you cannot compromise with your office chair. Not only does your chair need to be comfortable, but it must also provide proper back support. You’ll be spending long hours sitting on this chair, it’s certainly worth splurging on.

3. Good Lighting

The existing lighting in your home is probably great for everyday life but not suitable for a home office. Improper lighting will strain your eyes and cause headaches. Save yourself the hassle and get task lighting that you can adjust to your requirements.

4. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Whether you have spirited toddlers running around or noisy neighbours who seem to be operating heavy machinery all day, noise-cancelling headphones will be your saviour. Even if you’re not listening to music, noise-cancelling headphones will block out distracting sounds.

5. Tea Or Coffee Machine

If you don’t already have one, it’s a good idea to invest in an electric kettle or a coffee maker. Set up a coffee station with a coffee machine and some snacks. For those who love great-tasting coffee, exploring options like coffee subscriptions from Iron and Fire can ensure you’re always stocked with freshly roasted beans. This simple addition will encourage you to take the necessary breaks and revitalise.

6. Laptop Stand

When you’re leaning over your laptop or typing all day, it can lead to something called ‘repetitive stress injury’. A laptop stand will make sure your laptop screen is at your eye level and prevent straining your back or neck.

7. Smart Power Strip

You probably don’t have enough sockets at one place to plug in your laptop, lights, phone charge, coffee machines and so on. Install a smart power strip to ensure all your cables and cords are organised.

Also, using so many electronics all day will increase your energy bills at home. This is a good time to explore better-suited energy plans in your area. Check out competitively-priced AGL Energy plans.

8. High-Speed Wi-Fi

Unreliable internet is the last thing you want when you’re dealing with valuable clients. Upgrade your internet connection to a high-speed plan. 

9. Organisation Cabinets

If your job involves a bunch of paperwork, then you cannot do without organisation cabinets. Come up with a system to keep all work documents organised to avoid chaos.

10. Stress Toys

A stress relief ball or a fidget spinner may not seem like an office essential, but they often help ease high-stress and anxious feelings.

11. Plants

Fresh plants make any space feel alive and fresh. Plants such as Snake Plant, Aloe and Pothos are some easy to maintain options. 

Final Words

It’s normal to feel slightly lost when you’re working from home for the first time. But with time, you’ll create a schedule and find a rhythm. And creating a well-functioning office space will be of great help.

Photo: Laurel and Wolf

After all, working in an environment you enjoy can only help with your productivity! So, go for it, adorn your small private workspace with chic decorative items, gadgets and gizmos, and of course, a few comforts of the home.

Make it Personal

There are tons of decorating ideas you can use to spruce up your office decor and make yourself feel at home. If you’re working in a home office, it’s great having pictures of the kids and family around you. It pays to remember what motivates you, especially when you’re slogging away. But have you thought about updating your wall art? A customised sign would be a nice, elegant touch to your workspace. Or, it might just bring a smile to your Monday face. You can put a true stamp on your workspace with custom signs at smartsign.

Photo: Maria Vizuete

Fun Stationary

Developing a collection of fun pens, pencils and general stationary, is a great way to put your individual stamp on your home office decorating. It may be psychosomatic but you’ll be surprised at how much you genuinely feel more excited when you put pen to paper, if your stationary is more tailored to your style. So, forget boring biros and plain pencils! Bring a touch of colour and personality to your desk! But don’t forget – keep your office professional.

BDB Tip: If you are doing schoolwork at home and especially writing essays, you might want to consider a service that offers affordablepapers to do the job for you. Many people are thinking is advanced writers legit in terms of service but I believe it is worth a shot if it can help you make your life a little easier!

Style advice: You can also team your new stationary with plenty of vibrant organizers or wall pockets in fun colours and modern designs. Whatever speaks to you the most!

Brighten Up

It may sound simple, but if you’re working late then there’s nothing more demotivating then sitting in a dull light, staring at a screen and watching the clock. A desk lamp is crucial for keeping you awake as you grind away when everyone else has gone home. After all, your work can only ever be as good as your lighting. So, invest in some excellent lighting to help keep you motivated. It’ll be home time before you know it!

Photo: Michelle Jennings Wiebe

Turn Up the Heat

There’s nothing worse than sitting in a cold office. But working in a cubicle, it comes with the territory. One person’s idea of warmth is another’s idea of the artic! Luckily, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you don’t switch off when the heating does. Try keeping a throw, or blanket from home nearby. Something that reminds you of home can also help to motivate you – and you can always bring in a couple of cushions for extra comfort – just try not to fall asleep!

Elevate Your Work

Are you sitting comfortably? Did you know that most office workers don’t have their office equipment set at the right height for their comfort? You can change this straight away, and instantly stop hunching over the computer. Elevating your laptop or computer monitor will help keep your back and neck straight and make your desk look even more professional and personal.