How To Set Up The Perfect Home Office *
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Having a home office when you work full time from home is pretty essential. It keeps the business ‘work’ separate from the ‘house work’ by creating a dedicated work space.
It is also a great place to store everything work related in an organised manner, instead of work things taking over the house!
If you don’t have the space for an entire room as an office, perhaps you can turn part of a room or even a corner into your work space? For example, my home office was once a third of my children’s playroom, divided off by their play sofa!
The children had two thirds of the room and the back end of the room was my work office. The plan was the children could play whilst mummy works, though it didn't always work out quite so dreamy like that!
So how do you set up the perfect home office, if you have the space? And how do you set up the perfect home office without blowing the budget? Read on to find out.
Here are a few tips for setting up the perfect home office to get started:
How to Set Up Home Office Space
1. Position your desk near a window
Natural light can really help to give you energy and keep you motivated. It's much nicer than artificial light.
It can also provide a great view which is much better than staring at the wall. If walls are your only option then pin up some of your favourite photos and motivational quotes.
2. Invest in a comfy ergonomic chair
If you work from home then you may not always sit at your desk. I often curl up on the sofa with my laptop balanced on a cushion, but if I have something really important to do I’ll sit upright at my desk.
It’s crucial to have a comfy well designed chair that isn’t going to break your back after a few hours work.
3. Choose a custom desk
Creating a beautiful space that you want to work from will go far in making you do your work! If you have a small space or awkward alcove, then consider a custom made desk to fit the space perfectly.
4. Add greenery
An indoor plant or some easy to care for succulents will instantly cheer up any desk, whilst also promoting calmness and happiness.
They’ll also give you something pleasant to look at whilst all those exciting business ideas are running through your mind.
5. Keep it light
Keep the walls and furniture a light colour and save any hectic colour schemes for the rest of the house.
Light calming colours will allow your mind to be free and concentrate on the task at hand.
If you’re a blogger like me invest in a white desk – it’s a great background for all those product shots.
6. Hang a custom door sign
Do you have an amazing business logo that you’d like to show off? Why not consider a custom internal door sign created by a company such as Stocksigns?
This will make your workspace more professional and will definitely impress any clients who call by.
7. Declutter
Tidy desk, tidy mind, or so the saying goes.
A clutter free workspace will help to keep you more organised and focused on the task in hand.
8. Ensure a good internet connection and speed
Having a reliable and fast internet connection is crucial for anyone working from home. It allows you to stay connected, collaborate with colleagues or clients, attend online meetings, and access important resources and information. If my internet seems to lag then I test my internet speed to ensure I am getting the speed I am paying for. If not, a call to my internet provider can see if there are any issues in my area and can sometimes secure a discount if I'm not getting what I'm paying for!
9. Personalise your space with inspiring artwork or decor
Hang up artwork, motivational posters, or framed quotes that resonate with you and inspire productivity. Surrounding yourself with meaningful visuals can create a positive and uplifting atmosphere in your home office, enhancing your mood and motivation.
10. Invest in proper lighting
Besides natural light, ensure your workspace is well-lit with appropriate lighting fixtures. Choose task lighting that illuminates your desk area effectively, reducing eye strain and enhancing focus. Consider desk lamps with adjustable brightness levels to cater to different work requirements throughout the day.
11. Create a dedicated storage system
Keep your work materials and supplies organised by implementing a dedicated storage system. Invest in filing cabinets, shelves, or desk organisers to store and archive documents, stationery, and other essentials. A well-organised workspace minimises clutter and enables easy access to the tools you need, improving efficiency.
12. Incorporate a comfortable and functional layout
Arrange your furniture and equipment in a way that promotes comfort and productivity. Ensure your desk, chair, and other accessories are ergonomically positioned to support proper posture and reduce physical strain. A functional layout allows for easy movement and accessibility to frequently used items.
13. Establish boundaries and minimise distractions
Set clear boundaries with family members or housemates to minimise interruptions during work hours. Communicate your schedule and expectations to create a focused work environment. Consider using noise-canceling headphones or playing soft background music to minimise external disturbances and increase concentration.
14. Incorporate technology for efficiency
Integrate technology solutions that streamline your work processes and increase efficiency. Utilise productivity apps, project management tools, or communication platforms to stay organised, collaborate effectively with team members, and manage your tasks efficiently. Embracing technology can enhance your productivity and overall work experience.
15. Invest in quality office equipment
Equip your home office with reliable and high-quality office equipment that suits your work requirements. This includes:
- A fast and efficient printer (we love the HP Envy 6000 printer wireless printer)
- A speedy scanner (Our HP is a scanner too, but if you do a lot of printing and scanning and want to keep things seperate for efficiency then check out the Kodak alaris E1030 scanner for your home office)
- A reliable shredder (if you need to get rid of confidential documents then try the Bonsaii 8 Sheet Cross Cut Paper Shredder which is ideal for light use in a home office)
Plus any other devices that are essential for your specific line of work. Investing in reliable equipment ensures smooth operations and minimises potential frustrations.
16. Incorporate personal touches
Make your home office feel like your own by adding personal touches. Display items such as family photos, meaningful artwork, or souvenirs that bring you joy and inspiration. These personal touches can make your workspace feel more inviting and create a connection between your work life and personal life.
17. Consider soundproofing options
If you work in a noisy environment or have a need for privacy during calls or meetings, consider soundproofing measures. Install sound-absorbing panels on walls or use acoustic panels to reduce noise reflection. Additionally, you can use soundproof curtains or a room divider to create a separate, quieter space within your home office.
Setting up a Home Office Without Blowing the Budget
Creating a functional and inspiring home office doesn't have to break the bank. With some creativity and resourcefulness, you can set up an efficient workspace without exceeding your budget. Here are some tips to help you achieve a cost-effective home office setup:
- Repurpose existing furniture: Look around your home for furniture pieces that can be repurposed as your desk, such as a sturdy table, a console table, or even a large shelf. By repurposing existing furniture, you can save money on purchasing a brand-new desk.
- Shop second-hand: Consider browsing through local charity shops, online marketplaces, or car boot sales for affordable office furniture and equipment. You may find hidden gems at a fraction of the cost compared to buying new. Be open to refinishing or repainting items to give them a fresh look.
- DIY storage solutions: Instead of buying expensive storage options, get creative with do-it-yourself solutions. Use mason jars or empty containers to hold pens, paper clips, or other small office supplies. Repurpose shoeboxes or cereal boxes as file organisers. DIY projects not only save money but also add a personal touch to your workspace. Look for affordable storage containers, desk organisers, or shelving units at discount shops or pound shops. You can find practical and stylish solutions without spending a fortune.
- Utilise natural lighting and energy-efficient lighting: Maximise the use of natural light by positioning your desk near a window. This not only reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day but also provides a refreshing atmosphere. When artificial lighting is necessary, opt for energy-efficient LED bulbs to save on electricity bills in the long run.
- Take advantage of free or low-cost digital tools: Instead of investing in expensive software or productivity tools, explore free or low-cost alternatives. Many online applications offer basic versions at no cost or with affordable subscription plans. Research options for project management, note-taking, document collaboration, and other essential tasks to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
- Use cost-effective organisational solutions: Look for affordable storage containers, desk organisers, or shelving units at discount shops or pound shops. You can find practical and stylish solutions without spending a fortune. Additionally, repurpose household items like shoe organisers or ice cube trays to store and organise smaller office supplies.
- DIY decor and artwork: Personalise your home office by creating your own artwork or decor. Paint a canvas with your favourite colours, frame inspirational quotes or printables, or display your own photographs. DIY projects not only save money but also add a personal touch and make your workspace feel more inviting.
Remember, setting up a home office on a budget requires resourcefulness and creativity. By repurposing existing items, shopping smart, and utilising cost-effective solutions, you can create a functional and inspiring workspace without compromising your financial goals.
Final word
By implementing these easy tips and straightforward ideas, you can create the perfect home office setup that enhances your business productivity and motivation. Remember, it's all about finding the right balance between functionality, comfort, and personalisation.
Whether you're repurposing existing furniture, incorporating natural light, or adding personal touches, every small step contributes to creating an inspiring workspace that brings out your best.
Embrace the process of designing your home office, and enjoy the benefits of a well-crafted environment that supports your professional endeavors.