Style Your Office: 10 Fantastic Design Ideas

Just because you work from home doesn’t mean that you can get by stumbling around in your pajamas, coffee mug in hand, to the nearest home computer. If anything, working from home demands that you be more organized, and more focused, than your commuting counterparts. It requires a space that nurtures creativity. Believe it or not, your home office can have a profound effect on both your productivity and comfort.

Create a floor plan

Although the traditional “L” shaped workspace is often thought of as boring, it is still a good option for many people. Consider how a kitchen is designed in a home: so that everything you need is within easy reach. This enables you to work faster. Stretch your brain beyond the basics to more along the lines of creating a command center.

Give yourself a view

Plan seating arrangements and work areas around a view to inspire and refresh you. Windows are the obvious choice, but there are other ways to accomplish this. Fish tanks and plants are bring nature indoors. Another option is to consider installing a feature wall. These can be as elaborate as complex geometric motifs, or as simple as a built in book shelf.

Create some fun with color and room style

It is scientifically proven that wall color can effect our mood. While you normally hear people say that you should choose soothing pastels or calming neutrals, a punch of color. is invigorating. Instead of just guessing about what color you would want to see on your walls, plan it as part of a preferred style. For example, if you like Tuscan decor, then choose between browns, golds, burgundy, and blue hues.

Find a great desk

A desk is the heart of your operations, so choose it wisely. Like everything else, they come in styles that can be tailored to your personal tastes. Look for one that is a comfortable height and won’t be a challenge to keep clutter free. If you log a lot of keyboard time, choose one that is slightly lower than normal. Although funky elements are fun, keep in mind that your desk needs to be functional first.

Don’t penny pinch on task seating

Without a doubt, the best investment you will ever make in your home office is to find the perfect chair. To reduce vertebrae pressure and prevent lower back pain, look for a chair that is slightly reclined. Many have built in supports designed for this purpose. The height should be adjustable so that you are able to rest both feet on the floor.

Multiple monitors up the cool factor

Adding two or more flat panel monitors looks cool, but also serves a purpose. If you normally have multiple windows open on your PC, it can save you from having to click back and forth between them. Other functions include the ability to view your work on one monitor and preview on the second, or to follow data and rss feeds. Locate them 24-36 inches from your eyes for optimal viewing.

Equipment

Aside from other specialized equipment that you may need, it is a good idea to have a 3 in 1 printer . This saves space and money. Flat screens can be wall mounted to enhance the visual effect. Whatever type of equipment you install, don’t forget to hide the wires. Nothing ruins a room faster than seeing a jumble of cords sprouting from behind.

Storage and Organization

Adequate storage for supplies and other goodies is also essential. The great news is that you don’t have to be limited to stuffy file cabinets. Manufacturers now create storage and organizational products that are beautiful and functional. Look at closet organizational systems that can be adapted into your space.

Ergonomics

A smart home office design does more than boost productivity: it may keep you healthy too. Monitor heights should be situated so that the top of the frame is at eye level. Buy keyboards that are designed with ergonomics in mind.

Lighting

Lighting is an ergonomic factor, but it is also an aesthetic one too. Of course, you want to have a lot of it in order to minimize eyestrain. Many ultra sleek home offices make a visual statement with creative lighting. Consider a mix of natural and artificial light sources, spot lighting on areas where emphasis is needed, and art or colored lighting for style.

Tom Walker is a media, tech and gizmo enthusiast, which he reads up about every day on the internet. He’s currently working his dream job at a company called CartridgeSave.co.uk, where he gets to talk about HP LaserJet cartridges and other nifty printing accessories.

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