Home office setup: Create the office of your dreams

Whether your office is in a dedicated room or shared space (like a living room or bedroom), start by assessing the available space and layout.

• Measure your space precisely to avoid furniture that’s too large or too small to be practical
• Leave enough room around the desk for comfortable movement, as a cluttered area can be demotivating.

Tip: Use painter’s tape to mark the dimensions of potential furniture on the floor. Don’t forget to account for the space the desktop itself will take up.

Selecting the right desk is crucial. Ensure it’s the right height and spacious enough for your computer, documents, and other work essentials.

• Consider an adjustable-height desk to alternate between sitting and standing, reducing health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle.
• An "L"-shaped desk can maximise your workspace while keeping walkways clear and defining the work area within a shared room.

Integrated and smart storage helps maintain an organised and inspiring workspace.

• Use wall shelves, filing cabinets, or storage boxes to keep your desk clear.
• Opt for furniture that adapts to your needs, like a desk with retractable extensions or adjustable wall shelves.
• In smaller spaces, multifunctional furniture works wonders, such as a desk with built-in storage or ottomans with hidden compartments.
• Make use of vertical space: install floating shelves above your desk for books and supplies, or use wall-mounted rails with hooks or bins to keep essentials within reach.
• For flexible room division, consider movable panels or partitions to create a focused workspace that can open up when needed.

The efficiency of your home office relies on the right technology.

• A powerful computer, a reliable internet connection, and a good sound system are must-haves.
• Depending on your work, a printer or scanner may also be essential.
• Don’t overlook the importance of a robust backup system and data security to protect your work.

A desk cluttered with cables can be distracting and reduce your productivity.

• Implement cable management solutions to keep your workspace organised and secure.
• Use tools like cable grommets, storage boxes, and clips to create a tidy, distraction-free environment.

Colours have a direct impact on your mood and energy. Consider the following for your home office:

• Light and soothing shades: Pastel blues or soft greens encourage relaxation and focus.
• Dark tones: Black, deep blue, and rich green walls create an intimate, glare-free space ideal for calm and productivity.
• Bright and energising colours: If you want a more dynamic space, introduce pops of yellow or orange to spark creativity and energy.

Ultimately, the best colours are those that resonate with you and complement your office’s natural light.

Incorporating artwork or photographs that resonate with you is a brilliant way to personalise your home office.

Art prints, film posters, travel photos, or pieces created by loved ones bring a visually engaging and personal touch to your workspace.

Adding objects with special meaning, such as travel souvenirs, gifts from loved ones, family photos, or even trophies and certificates, can provide daily inspiration.

• If you’re working on a project or have ambitious goals, consider creating a vision board. This large-format inspiration board combines photos, images, and quotes that represent your dreams and aspirations.
• Placed strategically in your office, these elements will motivate you and serve as reminders of your achievements and objectives.

Decorative elements add character and make your office more enjoyable.

Choose artwork, motivational posters, or items reflecting your passions and interests to enhance your workspace and boost your creativity.

Whenever possible, position your desk near a window to benefit from natural light  and fresh air.

• Natural light helps reduce eye strain and enhances energy levels, while ventilation improves indoor air quality.
• Consider windows that allow cross-ventilation for constant airflow without draughts. Strategically placed roof windows are particularly beneficial alongside vertical windows.
• To manage glare on your computer screen, use curtains or blinds to control light intensity. If you spend extended periods in front of a screen, invest in an anti-glare screen to protect your eyes.

Good lighting is key to reducing eye strain, improving your mood, and increasing productivity.

Combine natural lighting with task lighting and ambient lighting to create the perfect work environment throughout the day.

Task lighting focuses on the areas where you work the most, such as your desk.

When working on a computer, reducing the contrast between the brightness of the screen and your desk space is essential to avoid premature eye strain.

A desk lamp with adjustable LED lighting allows you to direct light exactly where it is needed.

Another effective solution is a screen light bar, which attaches to the top of your monitor. It illuminates your surroundings without creating unwanted reflections. Some models include a second bulb that lights up behind the screen to reduce light contrasts, and a touch dial to adjust brightness as needed.

Ambient lighting provides indirect light that adds warmth to your office while reducing light contrasts.

Floor lamps or wall sconces complement natural daylight, ensuring a uniform brightness throughout the space.

A clutter-free desk saves time and reduces stress when searching for important documents.

Regularly sort through your paperwork and office items, keeping only what is essential. Make it a habit to declutter weekly or monthly.

Organised office supplies and neatly filed documents not only clear up space but also improve efficiency.

Shelves, desk pedestals, and filing cabinets are practical storage solutions to maintain an organised workspace.

Use desk organisers for smaller items and label your files for easy access.

Designing your workspace with ergonomics in mind is vital for long-term health and comfort.

Ensure your chair, desk, and computer display are adjusted to promote good posture.

Your chair height should allow your feet to rest flat on the floor, while your computer screen should be at eye level to prevent neck and shoulder strain.

Consider investing in high-quality equipment, such as:

• A chair with multiple adjustments for back support.
• A sit-stand desk to encourage movement throughout the day.
• An anti-glare screen to protect your eyes.

Incorporate regular breaks into your routine to stay refreshed.

Try techniques like the Pomodoro method, alternating 25 minutes of focused work with 5-minute breaks.

If you have a sit-stand desk, regularly switch positions to minimise the risks of a sedentary lifestyle.

Dedicate a cosy area in your home office for relaxation, whether it’s a comfortable chair for reading, a yoga space, or simply a corner to enjoy a cup of tea.

Minimising sound distractions in your home office is crucial for maintaining focus.

Choose a room away from noisy areas, if possible, and use soundproofing materials like thick carpets, heavy curtains, or acoustic wall panels to absorb noise.

Install solid doors rather than hollow ones to reduce sound transmission between rooms.

For external noise, roof windows with double or triple glazing and shutters can help minimise the sounds of rain and hail.

Noise-cancelling headphones or earphones are invaluable for reducing distractions. These can be used to listen to white noise or soft music, masking environmental sounds and creating a quiet, focused workspace.

Minimalist design is all about simplicity and focus. It eliminates distractions by reducing clutter and sticking to clean-lined furniture in neutral tones. Choose only essential, functional items, and keep your workspace organised for a sense of calm and order.

Extend this simplicity to your digital workspace by turning off unnecessary notifications and enabling “work mode” on your devices during focused tasks. A few subtle touches, such as a small plant or a sleek desk lamp, can add personality while preserving the minimalist aesthetic.

The industrial style blends raw materials and neutral colours for a bold, modern look. Exposed brick, metal, and reclaimed wood create a sleek yet functional space, while tones like grey and black enhance the aesthetic. Industrial lighting, such as pendant lights or lamps with exposed bulbs, adds character.

This design is ideal for those who value simplicity and practicality with a contemporary twist. Durable, functional furniture complements the rugged design, creating a workspace that feels professional and inspiring without sacrificing comfort.

Scandinavian design combines minimalism with warmth, using natural materials like light wood and soft, neutral colours. This style promotes a calm, welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of natural light to keep the space bright and energising. A clean and clutter-free environment is key to its charm.

Personalise your Scandinavian office with subtle decor, such as framed artwork, indoor plants, or cosy textiles like cushions or throws. This theme balances functionality with comfort, making it perfect for a peaceful, productive workspace.

The average adult spends over seven hours a day seated, and a sedentary lifestyle is linked to health risks such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and anxiety.

• An ergonomic chair is essential to prevent fatigue and discomfort from prolonged sitting.
• Look for features like lumbar support, adjustable height, and a tilting backrest to maintain an optimal posture.

Don’t underestimate the importance of your desk.

An adjustable-height desk allows you to alternate between sitting and standing, reducing the risks of sedentary behaviour. >