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The design of your workspace plays a significant role in your productivity, focus and overall well-being. Whether you’re working from the comfort of your home or in a bustling office, a well-organised and thoughtfully designed workspace can make a world of difference.
In a time where remote working has become more apparent and common, for some, moving work onto the kitchen table around family members can be a seamless process and is a comfortable workspace, while for others, having a designated workspace and maintaining a work routine can boost energy and productivity throughout the week.
If you don’t have the space available for a home office, try to create a sanctuary designated for your work. This could take the form of an open corner or a section of a room with a desk or fold-up table, a spare nightstand or even something as simple as a coffee table. Once you’ve established a comfortable workspace, there are tips you can incorporate to ensure you’re productive.
What Design Tips Should You Consider?
Fill the space with Natural Light
Adequate lighting is crucial for productivity and well-being. Whenever possible, position your workspace near a window to benefit from natural light. If you’re in a space with limited access to natural light, choose a warm, soft-white LED bulb that perfectly matches natural daylight.
You can go as far as to create a space outside during the spring and summer months, as not many people have the luxury of working from home. You may as well take advantage of the summer days and find a shaded spot. Soaking up the vitamins from the sun can be a great productivity booster throughout the working week.
Task lighting, such as desk lamps, can provide focused illumination for specific work tasks.
Fill The Walls With Mirrors
If you have a small space to conduct some work or if your general space lacks a full amount of natural light, try adding mirrors, reflective worktops and ornaments. This can brighten up your whole room and is a perfect solution for smaller rooms and spaces.
You will be creating a space that is inviting and the perfect place to settle in and crack on with the working week.
Try having some curtains for some styling in your rooms; they could be lace so they add to the vibe of the room while letting all the light in. It’s crucial to feel comfortable and happy in a space if you expect to be productive.
Paint Your Office Blue
Colour evokes emotions; they can affect your choices and your performance. There is plenty of research that has shown that blue is associated with professionalism and the workplace, as it is said to promote wellbeing and efficiency.
According to research by Lund University, a room that is painted blue is especially beneficial for those who are working a fast-paced and demanding job.
If blue isn’t your colour and isn’t on theme, try orange; its said to promote better focus, concentration and creativity. Alternatively, this will be perfect for those wanting to incorporate some trending cottage core themes, but adding green is known to be one of the most restful shades and can enhance the qualities of cheerful yellow and efficient blue.
Ergonomic Essentials
Ergonomics should be a top priority in your workspace design. Invest in an ergonomic chair that provides proper lumbar support and adjustable features.
Your desk should also ideally be at a comfortable height to prevent strain on your wrists and shoulders. Consider ergonomic accessories such as a keyboard and monitor stand to further improve your workspace comfort.
There is research that has shown people who are in a comfortable environment are 16% more productive and have 87% less absenteeism than those who aren’t; therefore, prioritise your comfort when you’re creating your at-home office.
Declutter and Organise
A cluttered workspace can not only be distracting but also hinder productivity. Implementing a minimalist approach to design by only keeping items that are essential on your desk is crucial and can be extremely beneficial when it comes to cleaning days.
Invest in some storage solutions like floating shelves, filing cabinets or desk organisers. Find what works best for you. A clutter-free workspace promises a clear mind and enhanced concentration.
Personalisation and Inspiration
Personal touches can boost motivation and creativity while acting as a reminder of why you must persevere even during the days when it seems impossible.
Decorate your workspace with items that inspire you, such as motivational quotes, pictures of loved ones or even a mood board filled with your desired future. Or incoportate some of the outside and have an array of different plants and flowers that actually help reduce stress and noise, which is essential for hybrids and those with home offices.
Wire Management
The modern workspace often comes with a plethora of electronic devices and cables. Keep your space nice and tidy and invest in some cable organisers and management solutions to keep cords and cables out of sight and out of mind.
This can also be a safety hazard, so prevent any at home injuries that have been introduced by your home office lifestyle.
Comfort and Accessibility
Ensure your workspace is comfortable and accessible. Keep frequently used items within arm’s reach to minimise distractions and interruptions. It also helps if it’s not within the flow of the rest of the house. This is important to prevent other residents from distracting you and reducing noise exposure.
Make sure your home office is well-vented and maintains a comfortable temperature, as no one wants to work with cold hands. This can help you maintain focus and stay alert.
Zoning and Layout
Divide your workspace into functional zones. Designate areas for specific tasks, such as a designated spot for video calls, a reading nook or a brainstorming corner. Keeping your areas where you tend to unwind and relax separate is important for motivation and productivity.
A well-thought-out layout can help you transition between different types of work seamlessly.
Save Space
Not everyone has access to a brand new room when they decide to do remote working, so understanding how to save space in your office can really help the overall vibe and productivity.
Instead of adding a large desk, try a foldable one. When it comes to organisation, space can be hard to come by so try floating shelves and storage boxes that are easily accessible around your office space.
Conclusion
Whether you’re working from home or in a traditional office, your workspace’s design can significantly impact your productivity and overall well-being. By implementing these design tips and tricks, you can create a personalised workspace that specifically fosters focus, creativity and comfort.
Remember that your workspace is a reflection of your workstyle and preferences, so tailor it to suit your needs and work the best you can with what you’ve got. It can be a blessing to stay at home, avoiding the traffic and a huge money saver, so make the most of it and enjoy your productive space.