7 ways to set up your home office space

Think you need a spare room to set up your home office space? Think again! Here are some clever (& stylish) ways you can make an office space work at home. 

 

We get it: not everyone has a separate space or room to convert into a home office. And that’s okay! 

 

The most important task is to analyse what space you have available, like a corner in a bedroom or a space in the dining room area, that you can convert into a dedicated workspace. 

 

It’s also important to make sure that you can corner off this area from noise and other distractions. A screen or bookcase can do wonders to help create a dedicated workspace in even the smallest places. 

 

Next to finding the right space to make your office in, is finding the right desk and chair to do your work in – believe it or not, these have a major impact on your productivity.

 

If you’re really cramped for space, then you’ll be glad to know that standing desks are all the rage of late… Not only does it help improve posture and fight obesity, but it takes up less space and looks ultra-chic.   

 

No matter how big or small your office space is, make sure you leave room to add personal elements that will make it feel warm and inviting and that will ultimately inspire you to do your best work. These could include photographs, posters, art, awards or, even painting the space in a colour that motivates you.

 

Nothing is less inspiring or as distracting as a messy office space. Using storage solutions will not only help make it look clean and sleek, but it will also ensure everything has its place. 

 

And, no, we’re not necessarily talking about ugly plastic containers. There are a number of beautiful and cost-effective options available from various outlets throughout South Africa. Think: wooden crates and woven baskets. A simple white bookshelf is another investment worth making as this can store books, files and display any personal items and photos. 

 

Studies have established that light is key to productivity and performance in a workplace; some studies have also found that having access to natural light could further enhance productivity and, even, happiness. So, if possible, make sure your office space is near or close to a window. And ensure that you dress this window with curtains or blinds that leave you happy and inspired. 

 

If your home office lacks natural light, make sure you get a lamp that provides sufficient light. Fortunately nowadays you don’t have to be stuck with an ugly desk lamp – a few home stores, including Mr Price and @home, have a number of chic adjustable lamps that will make your office look stylish.

 

More than just a décor item, plants actually help dampen sound and, according to studies, can help reduce stress. There are also a number of plants such as Delicious Monsters and Fiddle Leaf Fig, which can add a touch of trendy style to your home office. 

 

You can also use some herbs to add some colour and a beautiful fresh smell to your office – mint might just be the perfect office accessory to keep things minty fresh! 

 

One aspect that’s often neglected when setting up a home office is all the cables from the computer, monitors, printer and desk lamp. You might think it’s not a big deal, but it has the power to instantly make an office look messy. 

 

Luckily, it is easy to fix with cable cord organisers – these are available at most electronic and hardware stores and comes in neutral colours that will seamlessly blend in with the rest of your office décor. For those who are keen to keep their office themed decor, use binder clips as a fix to your cable nightmares.