When working from home for the first time, most people set up camp at the kitchen table rather than diving head first into making a home office. That works fine if you only work from home on rare occasions, or if you’re just getting started with your remote position. However, it doesn’t take long to outgrow your temporary office space if you’re working from home long-term. Below, find out what you need to know about setting up the ideal home office.
Location, Location, Location
There are so many different places to put an office, with a spare bedroom being the obvious choice. If you don’t have the luxury of a spare room, there are other options.
- An alcove or nook can make a great home office.
- You can also put an office in an unused corner of the basement.
- Although small, a closet can actually be transformed into a nice office space.
- If there’s no room inside, the garage can be converted into a secluded space to work too.
Designing and Organizing Your Space
After choosing where to put your office, spend some time making it comfortable. Here are some things to consider.
- Selecting a chair and desk is one of the first things you’ll want to start with.
- Adding wall decor will keep your office from being sterile and boring.
- Keep in mind the color palette you choose can influence your productivity and focus.
- Choose a storage system that provides enough room without taking over your office.
Getting the Most Out of Your Office
Having a well-designed and thought-out office helps you stay on task, but you’ll also have to set boundaries and goals to avoid all the distractions of home. These ideas help maximize your productivity.
- Designate office hours so you’re not disturbed when you’re on the clock.
- Don’t underestimate the motivating power of getting dressed for work each day.
- Use apps or browser extensions to help curb your social media usage.
- Accessories can help you stay organized, but too much clutter will be a distraction.
- If getting organized is a struggle, check in with the pros at Ducks in a Row!
If you plan on working from home for any extended period of time, a designated home office can be a lifesaver. Whether you set up an office in a closet, garage or spare bedroom, making careful design choices and actively limiting distractions will help you be as productive as possible when working from home.