5 Things You Need in Your Home Office
These essentials will keep you comfortable and productive no matter the size of your workspace
When you work at home, even part time, you discover that a makeshift desk area on a kitchen counter or the dining table isn’t the best setup. Having a dedicated home office, even if it’s compact, makes a big difference in comfort and productivity. Once you’ve chosen a room or area for your home office, here are five must-haves to include in it.
While some people prefer a minimalist desk chair, others like one with more padding and heft. No matter which type you choose, be sure to take stretch breaks and move around throughout the day. And if you have room in your office, include a small sofa or club chair for relaxing or reading.
Browse home office furniture
Browse home office furniture
2. Work surface that fits your needs
The size of your desk or work surface will hinge on the size of your office and budget. Consider different desk types and even creative repurposing of other furniture pieces. Think about how you’ll be working and the items you’ll want to have close at hand. To help keep your work surface neat, invest in attractive desk organisers and plan for at least a few shelves or drawers for things you use or reference less frequently.
The size of your desk or work surface will hinge on the size of your office and budget. Consider different desk types and even creative repurposing of other furniture pieces. Think about how you’ll be working and the items you’ll want to have close at hand. To help keep your work surface neat, invest in attractive desk organisers and plan for at least a few shelves or drawers for things you use or reference less frequently.
A built-in desk allows you to tailor your workspace to your needs. This corner desk area efficiently creates two workstations, one for computer use and one for desk work, that can be accessed without getting out of the chair. The desk also has plenty of counter space for spreading out papers or holding a printer or other items.
If you don’t have a lot of papers to file or objects to display, a simple cabinet like this one on wheels might offer enough storage. The movable unit offers a small drawer for office supplies and a larger one for files. A tilted book organiser keeps desk space clear for working.
4. Good task lighting
A standard ceiling light providing overall illumination is just a starting point for a home office. You also want to include task lighting for reading and other close work. This home office layers in a desk lamp for task lighting, a floor lamp for task and ambient lighting and natural light from the glass doors and windows. The desk and computer screen are angled so that light comes in from the side, instead of from behind or in front of the computer, helping to prevent eye strain.
Top design tips for an ergonomic home office
A standard ceiling light providing overall illumination is just a starting point for a home office. You also want to include task lighting for reading and other close work. This home office layers in a desk lamp for task lighting, a floor lamp for task and ambient lighting and natural light from the glass doors and windows. The desk and computer screen are angled so that light comes in from the side, instead of from behind or in front of the computer, helping to prevent eye strain.
Top design tips for an ergonomic home office
A row of upper cabinets in this home office provides an opportunity for bright undercabinet lighting over the entire desk surface.
5. Electrical outlets for equipment
If you live in an older home, electrical outlets may be limited. Be sure you have enough – and in the right places – for your electrical equipment.
If you live in an older home, electrical outlets may be limited. Be sure you have enough – and in the right places – for your electrical equipment.
Keeping cords and wiring out of sight is easiest with a built-in desk and storage areas that are flush against the wall. But if you’re planning a floating or freestanding desk, you can use floor outlets and cord covers to keep wiring neat and safe.
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Which elements have you found to be essential in your home office? Share them in the Comments.
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Which elements have you found to be essential in your home office? Share them in the Comments.
MORE
Read more home office stories
If sitting at a desk is a big part of your workday, make sure you have the right chair for the job. This is especially important if you work at a computer. Look for an overall fit that supports your back and encourages good seated posture. Features to look for include adjustable seat, arms and back, as well as legs on rollers and a seat that swivels so you can easily get in and out of the chair and reach for things without straining.