8 excellent ways to create an awesome home office in 2021
Many people across the globe have shifted to working from home since the pandemic turned our world upside down last year. But even before that, according to UK company Talent LMS, 31% of us were already working remotely and this has only increased in 2021 to avoid the spread of Covid-19.
Given that, it’s interesting that only 28.6% of people with a work from home job have a dedicated home office space. So, if you’re thinking of working from home on a consistent basis this year, here are 8 excellent ways to create an awesome home office at your place.
1. Find a dedicated workspace in your home
While this may be a lot easier if you have a bigger house, even if you have a small and humble abode, you don’t need to worry. What’s important is that you identify a space where you can work uninterrupted. It doesn’t have to be a whole room - a corner in your bedroom, living room, hallway or even the kitchen will do just fine. Don’t forget (if you live in a double story house) to check for available space under the stairs as this can make an excellent home office location. If you have an empty room or a basement that you can remodel to become your dedicated home office space, that’s even better. It’s crucial to separate your workspace from other things you do at home so you can become more productive and focused.
2. Get plenty of natural light
Before you even think about what your home office design will be, think about putting your home office where you will get plenty of natural light first. Why? Because it’s healthy, and it just feels better when you’re getting heaps of natural light while working.
But if that’s not possible, you can always improvise by installing ambient lighting. Find a high-quality desk lamp or wrap your workspace with LED lights. These should be able to imitate natural light and even give your workstation some personality and warmth.
3. Follow ergonomic rules for your home office furniture
Sitting for long hours while working can be damaging to your health. Find a table and chair where you can position yourself parallel to the floor, and your back and neck are straight. Your computer should be at eye level as this will help to avoid slouching. There are heaps of comfortable ergonomic chairs available online or in-store, so check them out and find one that you can adjust to your height and the height of your desk or table.
4. Consider having a statement wall
Now, for the home office design. One fantastic way to inspire you while working from home is to set up a statement wall right in front of you or anywhere around your workspace where you can see it. Design it with colours, photos, inspiring quotes, or achievements. It’s a simple and easy way to beautify your home office, and it can serve as your inspiration to keep working even when you’re finding it hard to concentrate.
5. Surround yourself with mirrors
Mirrors tend to create an illusion that you have a bigger space, so if your home office area is pretty small, consider placing a mirror or two on the walls. Light also reflects on mirrors, so you'll have double the light to keep you shining bright all day (or night).
6. Add some personality with artwork and decor
One great thing about working from home and setting up your home office is that you’re in total control of the home office design, artwork and decor. Decorating your dedicated workspace will make it more inviting and professional, which, in turn can improve your productivity. Just make sure to use interesting themes and colours, and avoid dark, dull colours that will make you feel sluggish.
7. Finish your home office design with some greenery
Plants reduce stress and increase happiness. They also enrich your environment with oxygen, and they add colour and life to your surroundings. Place some easy-to-maintain plants around your home office space - beside your desk, on the window-sill, on the floor or on top of a filing cabinet. Some excellent plants for this purpose are Monstera Deliciosa, Calathea and String of Hearts.
8. Try adding some scented candles
Scented candles are not just for decorating your home office. They are therapeutic too. Choose scents for different purposes such as lavender for relaxation, basil to sharpen your concentration and relieve headaches, jasmine to increase alertness or lemon to improve your mood. An essential oil diffuser works well too.
It’s time to create your awesome home office!
If you haven’t done it yet, now is the perfect time to create your awesome home office space. With your dedicated workspace tucked away somewhere in your home, you’ll be more productive and comfortable. We hope we’ve provided you with some inspiration, and don’t forget, if you need some extra funds to make it happen, we’re here to help. Just take a look at our cash loans from $1,000 to find out how quick and easy it is to get your hands on some extra funds. Once a loan is approved, the cash is usually in your bank account within a few hours – so you can create your ideal home office space sooner than you thought possible!