How to optimise your home office for optimum productivity

To decorate a home office for efficient work conditions, consider the following tips:

1. Choose a dedicated space

Many modern homes are being designed with a dedicated office space (or nook) but if you live in a slightly more traditional home and are not looking to remodel, set aside a specific room or area of your home for your office, to separate it from your personal life. Much has been written about how important this physical ‘division’ is for your work/ life balance.

2. Good lighting

Make sure that your office has plenty of natural light and/or good artificial lighting. Avoid harsh lighting or light sources that cause glare. The type of light needed in a home office depends on the individual’s personal preferences and the specific tasks they will be performing in the space. Generally, it is recommended to have a mix of different types of lighting, such as task lighting for specific work areas, ambient lighting for overall illumination, and accent lighting for decoration or to highlight certain features. Additionally, it can be beneficial to have dimmable lights or different colored bulbs to adjust the light levels and atmosphere as needed.

3. Good posture

Make sure your desk and chair are at a comfortable height, and that your monitor is at eye level. This will help you maintain good posture and reduce the risk of strain or injury. Here the balance between form and function is crucial - match your decorating style to a chair that is comfortable as you are going to be spending many hours in it.

4. Organise your space

Keep your office organised and decluttered. Use shelves, drawers, and other storage options to keep your office essentials within easy reach.

5. Personalise your space

Add personal touches to your office, such as plants, photos, or artwork, to make the space feel more comfortable and inspiring. A cluttered office equates to a cluttered mind.

5. Add plants or nature elements

Bring in plants, flowers, or natural elements to add life to the space and help you relax and focus. Not only do plants create a more natural ambiance, but as we’ve said before (and studies have proven) that plants –– both indoors and out –– bring fresh air and ‘health’ to your home and garden and can aid in reducing your carbon footprint. Plants can go as far as purifying air, according to this study published by NASA in 2019.

6. Incorporate ergonomic features

If you will spend a lot of time in your office, consider incorporating ergonomic features like an adjustable keyboard tray, a footrest, a standing desk or a monitor arm to help reduce strain on your body.

7. Keep it quiet

Consider soundproofing your office, or using white noise or background music to help reduce noise distractions.