Create a functional home office space

Dedicate a space

Start by setting up a dedicated work area that offers some degree of privacy. If you have limited space, you will need to get creative: empty out a walk-in closet, put a desk in a hallway nook or convert half of a room into a cubicle. Whatever works – just find a quiet, distraction-free zone that allows you to focus.

Eliminate clutter

Keep mess to a minimum: add a small trash can and recycling bin to your space, stow away office supplies in containers or drawers and add wall shelving to increase storage space. A clutter-free workspace will improve your ability to focus, be more inviting and lead to increased productivity.

Minimize distractions

Try setting aside your phone and checking your email at predetermined intervals instead of having it chirp at you all day long. Listening to vibrations and beeps can add stress to your day and reduce productivity. If you’ve got kids at home and no office door, invest in noise-cancelling headphones and a room divider to separate your work zone from the rest of the house.

Create an ergonomic workspace

Ergonomic office furniture and accessories can help prevent strain and repetitive motion injuries. If your wrists ache or your neck is sore at the end of your workday, your posture may be part of the problem. An office chair that allows you to adjust the seat and arm height, an ergonomic keyboard mount, and an adjustable laptop stand can help.

Add some personality to your home office

Brighten up your space

Natural light in your home office can reduce headaches, eyestrain and blurred vision, as well as boost your alertness and increase your productivity and well-being. If a window isn’t an option, add an adjustable desk lamp or upward-shining floor lamp to minimize glare and soften harsh light.

Personalize to your taste

Make your workspace warm and inviting. Hang up photographs and colourful artwork or turn on some music to create an inspiring and inviting space. Just try to keep personal touches as professional as possible if you’ll be attending virtual meetings.

Add greenery

Research shows that plants can increase happiness and productivity and they can also remove toxins from the air, increase humidity around your desk, and add flair to your workplace.