Home office design is essential for those who work from home, whether full time or part time. Find a dedicated space away from your living areas, and be sure it is quiet during working hours.
While some people love to have their desks positioned directly in front of a window, others may find the scenery too distracting or even cause eye strain. Opt for a secluded corner that can be easily walked away from during breaks.
Lighting
While it may seem like a small detail, lighting is an important element to consider when designing your home office. It not only affects how well you can see, but studies show that good light improves alertness and cognitive performance. Using natural and artificial lighting can help create a productive work space by reducing eye strain and fatigue, allowing you to work for longer periods of time.
Whether it’s a dedicated room or an area within another part of the house, it is essential that your home office have adequate lighting. This means utilizing overhead lighting as well as desk lamps and other sources of light to evenly illuminate the space.
Though many people choose light, fresh neutral colors for their home offices, a dark shade can still look great when used appropriately. Designer Suzy Hoodless chose a rich navy blue for this home office, which complements the calming landscape view and vibrant gallery wall behind the desk.
Storage
Home offices should be designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind. A clutter-free workspace promotes productivity, and decorative details like storage solutions are a great way to keep the room feeling cohesive.
Whether you’re carving out a dedicated home office in a spare bedroom or creating a work space within a larger nook, these creative storage ideas can help you maximize the use of your space.
Opt for wall pockets to store incoming mail, bills, and other important documents in your home office design. These practical accessories are easy to update as necessary and allow you to clearly see what needs your attention.
Bulletin boards are another excellent way to track your work schedule, goals, and inspiration. Pin up calendars, to-do lists, and inspiring quotes in your home office design to encourage a productive and positive working environment.
Space
Whether you run your own business from home, or simply use the desk in a spare corner of your room to pay bills and organize your schedule, an attractive workspace is key. And that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. In fact, a comfortable and functional work area can make the difference between burnt-out stress and getting the job done efficiently.
Having a dedicated home office doesn’t have to be expensive either. Many spaces, especially repurposed rooms like attics and basements can be used to create a productive work space without breaking the bank.
If you’re pressed for time, keep it simple with a sleek console table and a single accessory, as this modern home office from Reath Designs proves. But if you’re going all-out, opt for a statement wall of art to elevate your home office design and keep you inspired throughout the day. You could also try a paint shade that you might not normally consider for an office, as London-based designer Sophie Ashby did here with her navy blue choice.
Furniture
With more people working remotely than ever, a well-designed home office can help boost productivity. Having a dedicated space for work can cut down on distractions that come along with working from home, such as family members dropping by for unexpected chats and social media notifications.
Whether you’re converting a windowless closet into a home office or simply tucking a desk into the corner of a larger room, the requirements for a productive workspace are similar. From sleek storage solutions to decorative office accents, the right pieces can transform a cluttered mess into a sophisticated workspace that’s ready for burning the midnight oil.
For example, a white hutch desk can provide extra storage for both work-related items and personal belongings. And a storage cabinet can help organize files and paperwork to keep the desk tidy. Plus, a cozy upholstered office chair and a vibrant area rug can add a fun pop of color to the room.
