The home office trend gained pace in the US amid the pandemic, but it has continues to thrive. According to the Pew Research Center, one-third of Americans were working from home in 2023. Axios reports that Denver and Washington D.C. are the top cities with the maximum WFH population. These cities have 22.3% and 21.9% of people working from home respectively.
Most of them have dedicated home offices because that’s the only way to give their best in the long run. The demand for contemporary furniture in Denver and Washington is likely high because these professionals want nothing but the best. Besides furniture, you will need several other elements to create a perfect workspace at home.
Setting up a productive home office from scratch involves a strategic approach keeping the space, lighting, and furniture in mind. However, you need not be a designer to create a perfect space for your professional endeavors.
We have a few actionable tips to help you create an efficient workspace that boosts your productivity and comfort.
Find the Right Space
According to Architecture Lab, the average home office in the US measures 120 to 150 square feet. The actual size may vary, according to the available space, preferences, and family size. Of course, you cannot have a spacious office in an apartment or a small home. However, size does not make it more or less productive.
The foundation of a productive home office is choosing an appropriate location. Ideally, opt for a quiet, private room with minimal distractions. A spare room can be converted into a dedicated office away from noisy household activities. For smaller houses, corners of larger rooms or unused closets can be used as work zones.
Look for an area that offers accessibility to necessary amenities like a bathroom and has enough room for your equipment and furniture. Also, it should align with your work requirements, such as proximity to the internet, power outlets, and storage options.
And just keep in mind here that if wired broadband options are limited where you live, then 5G home internet may also be worth considering for video calls, cloud-based work, and other everyday office tasks. Not all homes (well, all rooms) have strong internet connections, so try to pick a room where it’s strongest.
Get the Lighting Right
Business.com states that the lighting in a workspace can affect the performance and productivity of workers. In fact, it even influences their mood, making it an even more important element of office design. Adequate lighting boosts energy levels, enhances alertness, and reduces depression.
A combination of natural daylight and artificial lighting is ideal for creating an optimal environment. Natural light from windows should be maximized as it reduces eye strain. When natural light isn’t sufficient, you can install LED lighting for an illuminated ambiance.
Use task lighting like gooseneck lamps for your desk to reduce glare and shadows while working. Besides picking the right fixtures, you must also steer clear of the wrong ones. Avoid glare and harsh lighting, as they can cause stress, fatigue, and headaches.
Select the Best Peripherals
Peripherals are additional pieces of hardware connected to your computer such as keyboards, mice and monitors. Choosing the right components is key to productivity and comfort.
For example, when it comes to monitors, some people like to have more than one screen in order to view two documents, emails or webpages easily at once. Others prefer to have one monitor to keep things simple.
When it comes to comfort, it can be worth looking into components designed to fit the human body. The likes of Contour’s ergonomic computer peripherals take this into account – think mice that are natural to grip and keyboards that don’t lead to achy fingers.
Other devices like printers, external storage, cameras and headsets could also be important to consider. Invest in accessories from reputable brands to reduce bugs and faults.
Add Personal Touches
According to Simple Home | Simple Life, a personalized workspace can make you more productive and energetic. The area feels more inviting and keeps you motivated. However, personalization is not about overdoing things or adding too many elements that are meaningful to you.
When decorating your home office from scratch, keep professionalism in mind. Place photos, artwork, or motivational quotes that inspire you. Add items that reflect your personality and hobbies, such as themed decor and collectibles.
Personal touches can reduce stress and increase engagement with your work. You will not feel tired and stressed even after long hours because this is like your comfort zone.
Bring in Some Plants
Indoor plants are a simple addition that can improve your home office environment. Besides adding aesthetic appeal to your workspace, they reduce stress and improve air quality by absorbing pollutants. Greenery in the workspace can increase productivity and create a calming atmosphere.
Look for low-maintenance options that stay healthy with minimal effort and blend well with your busy lifestyle. According to The Spruce, plants such as pothos, snake plants, or succulents are ideal for indoor spaces. Potted plants can fill up empty corners and small jars with flowers can keep your desk looking happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Americans have home offices?
According to a report published in the New York Times, nearly 22.5 million Americans were a part of the WFH trend in 2023. The number is quite similar even years after the pandemic. This shift reflects a broader acceptance of home offices into daily work routines.
What is the best office layout for productivity?
Modern office layouts support flexible, collaborative, and wellness-centric designs as they ensure productivity. Hybrid workspaces, biophilic elements, and dedicated social zones are the trends of the time. Both home offices and conventional workplaces have ergonomic furniture and natural elements that enhance comfort and focus.
Does office furniture affect your productivity?
Yes, office furniture can affect the comfort, posture, and overall well-being of workers. Ergonomic chairs and desks tailored to individual needs can reduce physical discomfort and fatigue. Flexible furniture arrangements offer more control, boosting satisfaction and efficiency.
As remote work continues to evolve, designing an effective home office becomes more crucial than ever. Creating it from scratch is not about spending a fortune or hiring experts. You can follow these simple tips and get the right elements to design a space that makes you productive and happy.
