Home offices are becoming a staple in many apartments as more of the workforce is moving to remote work environments each year. Whether it’s part time or full time, the option to work from home is growing in demand and popularity. From working at a desk in your home or at a local coffee shop, it’s important to have a designated home office to keep your important documents and other items organized. Some people opt for a small desk tucked away in a nook, while others allocate an extra bedroom to be their oasis. No matter what work style you prefer, we’ve put together some tips to help you create the perfect home office in your apartment.
Decide on the perfect desk for your needs
Are you a minimalist or a maximalist? Answering this question will help you not only know if you would be more comfortable at a spacious desk or at a cozy cranny, but how much space your desk needs to have in order to fit all of your tchotchkes (or lack thereof) on it.
You should also consider the functionality of your desk for your lifestyle. If your office is going to be a multipurpose space, you might consider using a desk that folds up or that can be easily moved to make room for your other activities. If you’re active, a standing desk might be a good option for you to place a walking pad underneath. Your desk is the centerpiece of your office, so this is an important place to start in any office design.
Prioritize lighting
Having good lighting is a key part of setting up your office to energize you rather than drain you emotionally and mentally. Opting for natural daylight and white light rather than fluorescent blue or yellow glows contribute to a better mood and therefore a better work day. Setting up your work space near large windows is ideal, and filling the space with lamps and other sources of good lighting is essential.
Some popular lighting products that many people include in their work from home set up is a ring light or an artificial daylight lamp. These options also help soften your features and cast you in a flattering light during any video conferences you might have. While it may seem like a small detail, it will make all the difference in creating a happy, healthy work from home environment.
Invest in comfortable seating
Loungers and posture perfectionists alike have a perfect chair type. Some opt for a large, plush armchair to maximize comfort, while others search for an ergonomic rolling chair that will align their spine. If you have clients or customers who visit you at home, you should also consider their seating arrangements and whether a sofa or a simple folding chair would be best suited for your interaction.
Besides considering which type of chair will be most comfortable for you to spend your day in, you should also consider the height of the seat compared with your selected desk. Ideally, your chair should be about 10 inches below the worktop. This appropriate spacing will save your shoulders, neck, and eyes a lot of strain in the long run. If your desk is too short for this ratio, you can purchase risers for your laptop in order to find the perfect fit for you.
Test your internet connection
Working from home generally entails spending a lot of time online. There is nothing more frustrating than having a slow internet connection. In order to curb this annoyance, you should test the Wi-Fi speed and reliability in your desk area prior to committing to the space for an office. Placing the modem and router in the office area whenever possible is a good way to help eliminate any patchy connectivity issues. Another solution to this problem is to invest in a Wi-Fi range extender for your desk. This will ensure that your work is able to carry on as smoothly as possible.
Add your personal touch
Once you’ve gotten all of the technical kinks out of the way, and your desk is functional and effective for you, it’s time to decorate. Including personal touches such as family photos or souvenirs from your travels can help you take ownership of your office space. It makes it a more enjoyable place to spend time in. Other furnishings you should consider include rugs and other soft materials to cozy the space up a bit, and plants to help breathe some fresh air and life into the area. Adding your own style to the office will make it truly your own space and will aid in making a perfect environment for creativity and productivity.
Work comfortably from home
One of the biggest appeals to working remotely is the comfort and flexibility it allows. In order to take full advantage of your new working situation, you should consider setting aside a unique workspace in your apartment. Following these tips are a great place to start and make a home office that you can enjoy for years to come. If you’re looking for an occasional change of scenery in your work day, 444 Social also offers a communal library and other coworking spaces for residents to utilize.
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