Creating a functional and inspiring home office is essential to maximise productivity and comfort while working remotely. We’ve rounded up some simple design ideas below to help you set up an effective home office, so you can focus on what’s really important – getting that work done!
First things first, your top priority should be choosing the right location for your home office. Select a space away from high-traffic areas, which is quiet and private, to minimise distractions. Position your desk near a window so you can make the most of any natural light, as this can improve both your mood and productivity. If possible, it’s best to dedicate an entire room to your office, so you have a clear boundary between work and home life.
It’s worthwhile investing in proper office furniture, as this will likely save you osteo or physio bills in the future! Set your desk up ergonomically and ensure it is at the proper height – ideally allowing your arms to rest comfortably at a 90-degree angle. If possible, invest in a sit/stand desk so you have the option of changing your position if need be. Always position your monitor/s at eye level to avoid neck strain or, if you’re using a laptop screen, have it on a stand and use a separate keyboard. And finally, invest in an adjustable chair which supports your posture and reduces strain.
Once you have your furniture in place, arrange your desk and equipment to streamline your workflow. Keep frequently used items within easy reach and use a collection of storage solutions such as bookshelves, cabinets, and drawers to keep your workspace organised and clutter-free. Don’t forget our NZCB builders can easily help you with any additional built-in storage you might need to make the most of your workspace.
When you’re working remotely, it’s really important to ensure your tech set-up is reliable. Invest in good quality equipment where possible, such as dual monitors, webcam, microphone, and headset for clear communication. While we can’t make any recommendations to help you remember to unmute yourself, we do recommend you have a strong internet connection to avoid any frustrating buffering during meetings. And finally, just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you can ignore health and safety. Use cable organisers or channels to keep cords tidy and prevent tangles or trip hazards.
Personalise your space to make it more inviting. You could add homely touches, such as framed photos, plants, or artwork to make the space your own, or you could use calming and inspiring colours. Blues and greens are known to be soothing, while a splash of vibrant, warm yellow or a motivating quote on the wall can boost creativity. Incorporate plants into your office setup, as they will improve air quality and your Zoom backgrounds. Both colour and nature can reduce stress and enhance productivity, so are perfect to incorporate into a home office.
For focused lighting, use desk lamps, especially for reading or detailed work. To reduce eye strain, ensure the room is well-lit with ambient lighting. If space allows, you may want to include a comfortable chair or small sofa for breaks and informal work. Don’t forget to consider the temperature, too – keep the room at a comfortable temperature with a small fan or heater, if needed.
To reduce external or non-work sounds, you could use noise-cancelling headphones or white noise machines to block out background noise or distractions. To soundproof, add soft furnishings – rugs, curtains, decorative cushions or blankets – or acoustic panels, as these will help reduce any echoes and absorb sound.
By finding the perfect mix of light, layout, furniture, technology, and decor, you can create a home office that is not only functional but also a pleasant place to work, helping you stay focused and productive when you need to.
You can find a New Zealand Certified Builders professional for your home office building project by using our Find A Builder search function.
