Most of us have now grown accustomed to the idea of working from home. Whilst some of you may return to our ‘commute to’offices, at least on a part-time basis, there will also be many whose jobs have allowed them to adopt full working from home hours. However you work, the volume of Google searches on topics such as WFH tips, wellbeing, lifestyle and garden rooms, suggests that we’re still grappling to achieve the holy grail of the elusive work-life balance. Here we offer up our top 5 tips for creating a work area where you can be productive in comfort and enjoy a day at home in the office!
In order to maximise productivity and keep motivation high, a dedicated work from home zone is ideal. If you don’t have space for a home office, consider adding a desk to one of your least used rooms where you’re least likely to be disturbed.
Whilst your bedroom possibly fits this criteria, try to avoid using it as your work space. Your bedroom should be a haven of relaxation, so sharing it with your day job will make it harder for you to switch off at night, especially if you can see your desk (and more specifically its contents) from your bed.
If there’s nowhere obvious to set up your workstation, you might need to get creative. Is there a space at the far end of your landing which might fit a desk? Or an area under the stairs or an alcove which is currently underused or redundant space? Even the most unpromising spaces can be transformed into the ideal WFH zone with the help of a bespoke fitted desk and wall storage.
Spending long hours sitting at a desk can play havoc with your posture, so invest in an ergonomic chair, designed to keep you in the correct position and support you in all the right places. Your desk should be at just the right height to slot your chair beneathit, and your laptop or PC should be positioned at eye level. A cushion for extra comfort, a cosy throw for chilly feet or an extra chair for relaxing (if space allows) might also be welcome additions.
Consider too what makes you feel happy and keeps you motivated. Adding photos, pictures or a lush house plant to your work area will fill it with positive vibes.
Keeping your work space clutter free not only makes sense from a physical angle – repeatedly trying to create enough space is frustrating and time-wasting – but it will also help clear your mind of this particular distraction. With half an eye on the clutter, your brain will spend time subconsciously trying to work out where to put it, when you should be fully focused on the job in hand.
The right storage solutions in the right locations, and designed for your individual needs, will keep the clutter at bay. Whether that’s a filing cabinet, a shelving unit or drawers and cupboards built into your desk.
Natural lighting itself has a part to play in boosting physical and mental wellbeing, as well as improving sleep and productivity, not to mention reducing your electricity bill! So, if possible, your home office space will have a window area that lets in a decent amount of light (and allows you a scenic view to keep you motivated). This room requires bright lighting that’s appropriate for long days at your desk. If the lighting in your room is lacking, choose a quality desk lamp that has different setting for day and night.
Whatever you decide are your working hours, make sure you stick to them and ensure everyone else in your household is aware of when you’re working too. This is to reduce the interruptions and help you keep your focus. Be strict with yourself – yes it’s useful to be able to put the washing on, and that’s clearly a benefit of working from home, but don’t allow yourself to get distracted. Keep to your schedule and this will stop your work drifting on and interfering with a healthy home-work balance.
Hartleys of Skipton specialise in creating bespoke home-study furniture for WFH spaces of all shapes and sizes. Our experienced team will ensure your new furniture safely stores all your work resources, making it easier to keep your desk clear of clutter and dust-free. For further information, please visit our website at www.hartleysbedrooms.co.uk and keep up to date with our news on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
A huge thank you to Hartleys Rooms for sharing these excellent tips with us. Don’t forget, at John Wilman Interiors we have uniquely textured wall murals to suit all rooms. Our “World Map” mural is a particular favourite for home offices!
