Since the pandemic, more companies have been allowing employees to work from home. However, that doesn’t mean you must spend 9-to-5 sitting on the couch. A well-designed office is the way forward; it can boost your performance and prevent giving yourself an injury.
If you’re among those who have been given the flexibility to work remotely, consider setting up a dedicated workspace. A job like building an office in your house requires careful planning, but this article will guide you through the steps to make it easier.
Decide On A Location
Before creating an office, you’ll need to find a space for it. You can choose a spot inside your home or set it up in your garden if you have the space. However, your priority should be selecting a quiet area, especially if you’ll take work calls when you’ve clocked in.
Do you prefer the idea of an office inside your home? Choose an area with minimal traffic. In two-story properties, an upstairs location is ideal since you won’t be disturbed by people coming and going. Even if you don’t have space for a full-sized workspace, try to use an existing room; e.g., a guestroom could be utilized for more than one purpose.
If a garden office interests you, but you don’t already have a structure, you’ll need to build one. Think about a portable garage; they’re cheap, easy to set up, and don’t have to be fixed to a single area.
Structure The Layout
The layout of your home office is crucial, as it will directly impact your productivity throughout the workday. First, the space has to be clean and free of clutter, as a messy environment can make it difficult to focus.
A simple bookshelf can help keep things organized and doesn’t cost much. For example, a standard floor-to-ceiling plywood bookshelf can cost as little as $400. Don’t forget that a computer setup often comes with many cables, so having a designated storage compartment for them will guarantee the area is always tidy.
Choose The Right Equipment
Maximizing efficiency with the right office equipment will streamline your workflow and ensure better ergonomic support. Take your desk and chair; you’ll want them to be as comfortable as possible since you may be sitting for eight or more hours on some days. That’s not the only equipment you need to consider. The keyboard and screen must be positioned within reach of you, or you’ll have to keep stretching, eventually leading to a strain.
While a standard desk and chair will be first on your to-do list, having an alternative workspace can be beneficial. Investing in a standing desk is a great option, allowing you to switch positions every few hours. Plus, it will reduce the risk of hurting yourself from sitting down too long.
Select Suitable Lighting
You’ll know from working in the office before that proper lighting is essential for completing your tasks. Poor lighting will give you headaches and strain your eyes, which isn’t ideal if you’re only halfway through a shift.
Natural light in your office is particularly important, as it can improve your concentration and mood. Try to choose an office location with a window allowing plenty of sunlight. A window lets you let in some fresh air whenever needed, helping you avoid feeling stuffy and cooped up.
It’s essential to have artificial lighting in your office, especially for the darker winter months, but you must choose the right type. An LED desk lamp works well since it won’t be too harsh on the eyes.
Make Sure The Environment Is Properly Soundproofed
We all know how annoying the sound of barking dogs or crying babies can be. Imagine trying to get your work done with that noise; that doesn’t seem too pleasant. However, you wouldn’t have to worry if the environment was correctly soundproofed.
Acoustic wall and ceiling panels are excellent for reducing noise, as they can dampen sound within the environment. But you don’t even have to go that far; something as simple as applying soundproof paint can also work just as well. If you’re on a tight budget, noise-canceling headphones could be more affordable.
Craft Your Productive Workspace With A Personalised Touch!
An office can make all the difference when you start working from home. It gives you a private area to focus on work and complete your tasks efficiently while catering to your personalized needs. Sure, it’s an investment initially, but it beats working from your kitchen table every morning while the kids get ready for school.
Discover how Dr. Homey can assist you in creating your ideal living environment. Visit our home page today to explore a wealth of information and transform your home into a space you love.
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