Creating the ideal Home Office
Working from home can be challenging if you don't create the right space. We have a step-by-step plan on how to build the optimum workspace to help you stay focused.
While working from your bed or the sofa is a tempting idea, it's far from a long-term solution. It's important to think about how you can create a workstation that best emulates an office environment over the coming weeks while working from a shared workplace isn't an option.
Here are seven steps for setting up the perfect work base at home.
- Select the right place
Floating desks are great if you're limited for space
Before anything else, make sure you select the right location for your new workstation if you don't already have an office. This is one of the most essential steps. If possible, try to find a quiet part of the house, to create a distinct working zone that doesn't blend into home life.
If you simply don't have the space and have to make the most of your bedroom or living areas, try getting creative. Bookcases make great dividers to limit distractions and segregate between home and work zones.
If there isn't enough room to erect a standing desk, check out our writing desks, which can be transformed outside of work hours to utilise space.
- Make the most of lighting
It's been proven that poor lighting can be detrimental to productivity at work – it can lead to drowsiness and difficulty maintaining focus and motivation. On the contrary, harsh artificial light can trigger headaches and migraines.
Try to locate your desk next to a window to flood yourself and your work with natural light. Exposure to natural light will help your body stick to its natural circadian rhythm so that it knows when to feel alert and energetic and when to feel sleepy.
- Think carefully about ergonomics
The way you sit at your desk is so important. The highest pressure placed on the discs in your lower spine occurs when you are in the seated position and leaning forward.
To protect your spine and neck, invest in a good quality chair, ideally with adjustable arms so you can rest your forearms while using a keyboard and mouse. You will want your forearms to be roughly in line with the keyboard and mouse pad to reduce unwanted strain on your wrists.
Our selection of office chairs are affordable, sturdy options that offer a long back and integrated headrest. You can adjust it for height, tilt, and the back can be locked in place or reclined. If you're looking for a greater level of adjustability, our Sarah PU Office Chair is another reliable option.
- Get green fingered
Plants not only brighten a home office environment, the benefits of indoor plants run deeper than just aesthetics.
- Keep air quality high
Most homes nowadays are tightly sealed, meaning that very little fresh air gets in and air pollutants can linger. Make sure you keep your home well-aired by opening your windows or skylights for 5-10 minutes several times a day.
Also, try to keep your home at a comfortable temperature of approx 18 °C. High humidity can make it easier for mould to grow and reduce air quality.
- Add a splash of colour
Your office space should be a place where you enjoy spending time. It should be a reflection of your personality. Add artwork and picture frames to make working enjoyable. If you don't have the resources to fully re-decorate your space, you can see our selection of Art in store at Larry O’Keeffe Furniture, Davis Road, Clonmel we have a wide range ofl inspirational prints bursting with colour to brighten up any office.
- Create a "Please Do Not Disturb" sign
If you're sharing your house with others, creating a "Please Do Not Disturb" sign can be a gentle reminder that you're in work mode, rather than home mode. It can be hard for others around you to remember this crucial fact, especially if you're working in a living space. But a simple sign could save you a lot of distractions, so you can concentrate on business.
For more information on all our Home Office furniture go straight to our website and see what would suit your home and requirements.
