Now that a lot of us have been asked to work from home… let’s look at the bright side – your commute is probably reduced to 5 mins, leaving you with a lot of spare time.
For some it might be your first time working from home and some of you may already have your home office set up. Regardless, you want to maximize productivity making sure your work day doesn’t drag on, so taking this time to review your existing set up is just as valuable. All you might need is to spruce it up so it inspires you every day.
If you don’t already have a home office or if you and your spouse are both working from home then you need to assess your specific needs… what if one likes to listen to music and the other doesn’t? It’s up to you to decide whether the solution is headphones or different spaces, considering how well all the other elements jive.
Step #1 – Identify Your Office Location
Depending on the kind of work, your work-at-home needs could be met on the kitchen counter, the formal dining area or could be tucked in a corner in the guest room. Be sure to “test drive” your desk and chair, you’re going to aim for comfortable but not too cozy, some trial typing will help to see how it all feels. Say you’ve got your hands on a suitable table and upright chair and not sure where to locate your temporary office, try setting up in your reading nook, while originally designed for a relaxing read, simply placing a desk by your beautiful bookshelves immediately makes it an inspiring work space.
Tip: Revamping old furniture such as family heirlooms not only makes your space one of a kind, your wallet catches a break and it also saves good quality furniture out of landfills.
Step #2 – De-junk Your Space
Once your location has been determined, and you are starting your set up, remove all unnecessary items from that space. Having a clutter-free work area is essential, even if it means temporarily re-homing some things. Take note of what the functions of your office normally are, and be sure to set up your desk accordingly. Make sure to have a clock (preferably a nice one) somewhere on or near your desk. With this new routine, time feels like it passes at a different rate, it’s very helpful to have a visible clock to keep you on task.
Step #3 – Get Inspired
Next, I’ve put together some mood boards to get your juices flowing – see what resonates with you in terms of colour and style. Good Interior design is what touches the client’s heart, has value behind your personal style in your home and surrounding yourself with beauty in a way that is meaningful and makes you happy. Research to see what really inspires you and try making your own mood board.
-
A light palette with a hint of bright colour makes the space sophisticated and adds an element of luxury.
A Sophisticated Home Office – Mood Board
2. For those living in a loft, just add an accent colour on the wall or work with exiting brick. Make it fun and playful.
Fun & Functional Casual Home Office – Mood Board
3. In a large room with big windows go for a moodier and darker theme.
A Moody Home Office – Mood Board
4. Mid-century is great for small spaces with less light, a clean and simple way of adding style, include wood elements for some warmth.
Small Space Home Office – Mood Board
When jazzing up the space, add just one or two accessories. See if there are things from around your house you can borrow – at this time… the painting in the hallway might serve better as inspiration in your temporary home office!
Tip #2: In these trying times remember to support the local businesses as much as possible. Some local business can’t compete with big companies so their online presence is not that visible. Go to Instagram and search for local business and you’ll be surprised at what you can find locally.
And finally, don’t forget the advantages of working from home – use your favourite coaster! Get something soft under your feet – your toes can finally be cozy while you work furiously away!
If you’re still having trouble envisioning your ideal home office, feel free to book a free 15 minute phone conversation with me, let’s see what we can come up with!
Drop us a line to let us know which one inspires you.
SOURCES:
https://www.westelm.ca/
https://www.eltemkt.com/
https://www.ikea.com/ca