Revitalize Your Home Office
Transform Your Workspace into an Oasis of Productivity and Comfort
By Michelle Mahoney
As the days get cooler and we begin to move into a more structured routine, it might be time for a home office update. For many of us, the concept of this space has evolved to become an integral part of our lives, where remote work and children’s education require an area that caters to the whole family. By incorporating functional workspaces and intentional decor, you can transform your home office into an efficient and harmonious environment that serves everyone’s needs.
A Balance Between Work and Learning
In today’s world, it’s realistic to assume that online learning and remote work can happen in tandem, so dual workspaces to accommodate both are worth considering. A large desk with two workstations is one possibility, although a secondary area for school and homework could be a better solution, creating a more personalized experience for everyone. An attractive privacy screen between the two areas is also an option, with the added bonus of creating a unique backdrop for virtual meetings.
Function First
Whatever the requirements of your home office, functional furniture is a must. Choosing furniture that is comfortable and a good fit is essential to productivity. Consider whether it is better to have the ability to spread out and let the creativity flow, or would a minimal work surface with no visual clutter be preferred? If you have significant technology requirements, such as multiple monitors, you may want an oversized desk that easily accommodates everything, while still offering a spacious work environment. Adjustable desks which allow users to switch between sitting and standing positions are said to promote better posture and reduce the strain on the body during prolonged periods of work or study.
Christopher Millward, a remote worker in Manotick, Ontario, went with the Flexispot E7 – an adjustable desk with a mid-range price point and customizable design options. He notes, “I spend 8-10 hours a day at my desk and I was hoping that adding an option to stand would help keep my energy up, especially during meetings. In fact, I’ve made it a point to take every meeting standing up and I find it helps me focus more on the meeting and less on all the other distractions that can sometimes intrude.” flexispot.ca
A chair with lumbar support is also ideal and can be enhanced by adjustable positioning options and additions such as a footrest for extra comfort.
Storage and Organization for Maximum Focus
Staying organized can be vital to maintaining focus and optimizing space. Efficiently designed storage solutions will minimize visual clutter, bringing calm and style to the home office. If floor space is at a premium, consider taking advantage of some of the innovative products available to make the most use of wall areas and keep your surfaces clear. From floating shelves to pegboards, there are a wide range of office organization options in sophisticated and fun styles for adults and children. Cable management products are also useful, helping to avoid the messy tangles and reducing potential trip hazards.
Let your Personality Shine
The right colours can significantly impact productivity and mental well-being. For focus and concentration consider the many shades of blue and green, which are known to enhance those attributes. Whites and neutrals are also ideal, providing a backdrop for vibrant pops of colour and natural elements to add energy and inspire creativity. Of course, colour is subjective, so do what works for you, keeping in mind that intense and bright shades may make it difficult to focus on the task at hand.
Colour Inspiration – the Perfect Backdrop
Benjamin Moore #2058-20 Slate Teal
Farrow and Ball #81 Breakfast Room Green
Sherwin Williams #SW 7017 Dorian Gray
Benjamin Moore #CC-550 October Mist
Sherwin Williams #SW0055 Light French Gray
Books, artwork and other items that reflect your personality, goals and accomplishments can bring motivation to the space, while also crafting an aesthetic that is pleasant to spend time in. For a warm and inviting office, bring in some nature, such as plants and wood tones, and install window coverings that take advantage of natural light. A variety of lighting sources is optimal, so it is worthwhile to consider task lighting for work and reading, along with adjustable ambient light options that can change the atmosphere throughout the day.
Creating a Workspace for Kids – all about learning, focus & fun!
Setting up a personal workspace for children involves creating a conducive environment that promotes focus and learning but is also a space for creativity to run wild. Providing a bright and organized area with age-appropriate furniture, adequate lighting and room to spread out will enhance opportunities to thrive, whether it be completing homework, exploring the world through technology, or doing arts and crafts.
For optimal results, include children in the decorating process – let them lead the way with colour and style that makes them feel excited. If their selections are too bold, stick with neutrals for the walls, and use accents like artwork, accent walls or murals and furniture to add fun and energetic colours. Display completed projects and inspiration in a way that is easily changeable, ensuring the space stays inspiring and interesting as the child’s world evolves.
Whatever your home office needs, creating a work area that feels welcoming and inspiring is well worth the effort. Designing a visually appealing, customized and functional home office will encourage productivity and nurture wellbeing for all who use it.
