You threw together a home office quickly, thinking it wouldn’t be for long. But as weeks stretch into months during this time of uncertainty, you might want to reassess your space to make sure it’s meeting your needs and those of your family. We turned to interior design experts for tips on creating a comfortable and functional home workplace.
Draw a distinct line between work and relaxation. If you don’t have a room dedicated as a home office, it’s important to choose an area that will foster productivity and help you resist diversions. “I would avoid putting a workspace in an area in which you will get too distracted, like a room with a TV or in a traffic pathway,” says Dallas designer Emily Johnston Larkin of EJ Interiors.
Dining room and kitchen tables offer plenty of space to spread out with your essentials, but be mindful of areas where family members congregate throughout the day. For optimal concentration, “I would definitely look at working in spaces that are removed from others,” says Beverly Farrington of Accents of the South in Huntsville, Alabama. Try to avoid tackling work-related tasks from your comfy bed or a couch that you like to curl up on at the end of the day with loved ones. A secluded nook at the end of a hallway or a guest bedroom with an appropriate surface for setting up your laptop might be more ideal.
Opt for a space outfitted with functional furnishings. Regardless of the tools you’ll need to work, a large dining table or a desk that’s not already occupied by a housemate make ideal surfaces for spreading out and getting down to business.
Choose a chair that’s comfortable for extended time periods, but make sure it’s not so cozy as to make you feel sleepy or sluggish advises designer Marie Flanigan, based in Houston. “I also like to incorporate both a bookcase and a credenza in an office if the space allows,” says Emily. “The credenza cabinet is great for hiding things you don’t want to look at like printers and files.”
Take inspiration from the change of scenery. Away from the bustle and formality of a typical office environment, it’s perfectly acceptable to embrace the flexibility of an at-home schedule. “Are you more productive in your pajamas? Then wear them!” says Marie. “Do whatever makes you the healthiest and happiest version of your working self.”
Taking short breaks for a jaunt around the neighborhood or baking homemade snacks are perks of being at home that can also give you a boost of energy to complete your work for the day. Setting up shop close to a window stimulates creativity and productivity as well. “The natural light will give you energy, and help you stay alert and focused,” says Marie. Beverly agrees and suggests seeking out sunlight if it inspires you. “I personally like to move around the house, following the sun as it moves throughout the day and sitting in a quiet room where there is a pretty view,” she says.
Personalize your new work area. “This is your opportunity to make your office your own, away from the influences of your coworkers or rules of your workplace,” says Marie. “Space allowing, I recommend incorporating something beautiful to keep you inspired: a favorite framed photograph, a branch you trimmed while on your most recent stroll, or a decorative object that holds sentimental value.” Fresh flowers foraged from your garden also make for invigorating décor.
Emily suggests selecting useful items that will add personal flair. “We love an acrylic tray for papers, a pair of brass scissors, and monogrammed pencils in a pretty container,” she says. “Also, a desk pad/blotter in a beautiful leather or shagreen material is a great functional accessory.”
Creating your own work environment also grants you the opportunity to decide whether you prefer a neutral backdrop or more colorful surroundings. While some may want a muted, serene space, Emily says others “want a cheerful and happy office with an invigorating, bright paint color or a fun wallpaper to keep them energized.”
Over the next few weeks, keep an eye out on our social media platforms for a peek into our own homes as we show you favorite elements that bring us joy in our new work environments. We hope you’ll share your own with us, too!
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