There are many benefits to working from home. Many companies are moving to remote work because many jobs can be completed with a simple computer and internet access. Working from home is generally a more comfortable experience, but to be a productive worker, you need to set up your own work space.
Even if you are not a remote worker, it is still beneficial to build a home office. A home office is a great way to develop a space where you can be more focused and professional, but still enjoy the comforts of being in your own home.
Choosing the Right Location
The first part of setting up the perfect home office is picking where you want to work. An extra room is an ideal choice because it provides the most privacy. Another consideration is your basement.
If you are limited on space, prioritize a location with enough room for your needs. Kitchens are a popular choice because they have table space, but you might need to pack up your office after the workday is over. Another consideration is to section off part of a different room. Privacy dividers are one option, or you can set up curtains around your chosen workspace.
It’s important to have enough space to work, but also to be away from distractions. If you live alone, this is less of an issue. If you have a family, you might want to keep your office separate so you are not being interrupted. It also helps to separate yourself from your personal life and remain focused on your professional tasks.
Combining Comfort and Professionalism
You must be able to focus on your professional tasks in your home office, but it does not mean you have to sacrifice your comfort. Any office, whether at home or otherwise, should be comfortable enough for you to spend time in. With an office, there are two major considerations: your desk and your office chair.
The type of desk you use largely depends on your needs. You want something with enough space to store all your work materials, while still having enough room to breathe. If you have a larger work space or use many devices, consider getting an L shaped desk so you have a larger surface to work with.
If you need to frequently access physical files, consider getting an organizer for one of your drawers. You also want a desk that provides plenty of legroom so you do not feel cramped in your work space.
When selecting an office chair, you might opt for one that is both customizable and comfortable. Depending on your job, you may spend around six to eight hours each day in your chair. If you are uncomfortable, it becomes much harder to be productive.
Some important considerations are the support that the chair offers, whether you can change the height, and how much padding the chair provides. You also want to pick a chair with a breathable material, especially if your office is in a warmer part of the house. Adjustable armrests are also a consideration.
Lighting Concerns
While it may not seem important, the lighting in your office can change your mood. Lighting is especially important if your office is isolated from natural light sources, such as a basement or interior room. Minimal lighting makes your home office feel colder and more oppressive, which is the last thing you want from a work space. Too much light, however, can be distracting and may interfere with computer screens. A good option for home offices is adjustable lamps. These allow you to change where the light is directed, as well as the brightness settings.
