Mini Series: How to Create the Best WFH Space
The home office has taken on new importance of late. More and more British people are working from home—and not just because they’re all in quarantine. With the rise in video chat technology, and increasingly flexible company policies, the world is your office. But few of us have actually sat down and thought about the kind of space we need to work optimally. As we settle into the new norm of #stayhome routines, it is important to create a space that is conducive for productivity and speaks to personal style.
Every business that is managed from home will require some sort of workspace and the requirements will vary depending on the business you choose to operate. Nailing that home office design is so important if you need a space to work in your house. Once regarded as a luxury, a home office is now a must-have as more and more of us work flexibly over the coming months. Start by thinking about the purpose of your home office; will you be working there on a daily basis? Because home and work are now cramped into one, you want to be able to separate where you do business, and also where you lay your head. Whether it’s a dedicated room, a built-for-purpose garden room, or a small study space with big ideas, design a home office you deserve. Here are a few tips to create a comfortable, convenient workspace that’ll make you happier and more productive.
Image Credit - Pinterest
GO LIGHT AND AIRY
Image Credit (left to right) - Complete Shutters, Pinterest
Who wants to work in a dull, boring workspace? For the majority of people a dark, untidy space creates frustration and distraction even though we don’t always realise it straight away. The best part about creating your home workspace is that every element you don’t like at your office, you can change at home. If you’re used to dim, fixed lighting at your desk, give yourself an extra boost by opening up the windows in your home for natural lighting. Try to move your desk closer to the windows, but make sure to place it parallel to the panes - this will brighten your mood and alertness, reducing eye strain and increasing productivity. This ideal set-up gives you the happiness benefits of natural light, and a good reason to turn away from your computer every few minutes to take in the scene.
CARVE OUT ROOM
Image Credit (left to right) - Real Homes, Industry West
If your home lacks a dedicated office space, max out a modest space. Being creative with existing small spaces might be the solution - just reimagine a corner of your favourite room to double as a home office. No, not your couch or your bed. This space needs to be somewhere that is dedicated just to work — and does not double as another area of your home. It can be a corner in your living, a spare bedroom, or even a nook under the stairs. If you children and like keeping an eye on what’s happening in the house while you work, have you ever thought about going with a dining table instead? Depending on the percentage of time you will spend at a desk and on conference calls, it may make sense to even purchase a desk so you can zone in on your work during the day. Otherwise, carving out space somewhere like your dining table works too!
BANISH THE CLUTTER
Image Credit (left to right) - Pinterest, Container Store
Clutter is at its most distracting in the home office area. You will want to make sure that the space is as tidy as possible, with all important paperwork easily accessible - making strategic decor choices can help you keep clutter at bay. Keep track of your goals with a noticeboard, they are a great way to visualise your goals and achievements, as well as keep track of deadlines and to-do lists, while wall planners will ensure you never miss an appointment.
CREATIVELY CUSTOMISE
Image Credit (left to right) - Pinterest, Busatti
Creativity can take place anywhere, even in your home office! If you spend all that time in a space that’s not inspiring - or worse, drags you down - it’ll take its toll eventually. Now is this perfect time to personalise this space: Greenery, quirky stationery, daring wall treatments, artworks, or even a statement Persian rug can transform what may have seemed like an uninspired area into a total gem. We have a huge selection of Persian and Oriental rugs, in a variety of different shapes and sizes; you are bound to find one that fits your unique and personal style. What's more, we have our Easter SALE live now, so have a browse here. Up to 50% off certain rugs, and 20% off everything. (sale ends 23:59 16.04.20).
You can check us out on Pinterest and Instagram to keep up to date with the latest trends and rug inspo. Don’t forget you can visit our showroom, to view one of the largest collections of Persian Rugs in London. We also offer a ‘Try before you buy’ service.
