The widespread work-from-home movement emerged out of necessity during COVID-19.
With a non-existent commute in rush hour traffic, the comfort of wearing casual clothes, and no fights over the office air conditioning, it’s no surprise that working from home remains a way of life years later. Some people still work from home full-time, while millions more have adopted a hybrid model, balancing their time between home and office work.
In today's remote work era, having a dedicated, well-designed home office is crucial for productivity and well-being. A home office, or even a versatile space that can double as one, is now a highly desirable feature for both homeowners and potential buyers.
At Shelved, we understand the need for a workspace that is both efficient and aesthetically pleasing. We believe that the right setup can transform your work-from-home experience. Here’s how to create the perfect work-from-home space with some thoughtful planning and a touch of creativity.
Choose the Right Location
Firstly find the perfect spot for your home office! Whether you're building, renovating, or just reimagining a current space, here are some tips to keep in mind. Ideally, snag a spare room for your office – it's perfect for those private calls and meetings. But if space is tight, no worries! You can carve out a corner in your living room or bedroom. For those in open-plan homes, try zoning your space with a non-permanent room divider. Our Shelved modular units are perfect for this, creating a designated area while adding some stylish storage.
Pick a spot away from high-traffic areas and noisy parts of the house. If you're in the midst of new construction, think about adding sound insulation to create a quiet space. Aim for a place that’s dedicated solely to work – it really helps in drawing the line between work time and personal time.
And don’t forget the light! Natural light can be a game-changer for your mood and energy. Position your desk strategically to soak up daylight and keep track of time easily. If you’re designing a new space, place windows thoughtfully to flood your office with light throughout the day.
Invest in Ergonomic Furniture
Comfort is key when you're spending long hours at your desk. Working from home should not be an excuse to slump in an awkward position on your sofa for hours. Investing in ergonomic furniture is essential to support your health and boost your productivity.
There are a few important considerations when setting up your workspace. Choose a chair that provides good support, is adjustable, and is comfortable. A height-adjustable desk, also known as a sit-stand desk, allows you to alternate between sitting and standing positions throughout the day. This flexibility can help reduce the strain on your lower back and improve circulation. Changing positions can encourage better posture and standing can help maintain energy levels and reduce the lethargy that sometimes comes with prolonged sitting. And let's not forget about your monitor! Proper placement is key to reducing eye strain and keeping your posture in check.
Organise Your Space
Creating an organized and efficient workspace is a game-changer for staying productive and stress-free. Our modular shelving units provide a versatile approach to home office organisation. Open shelves are perfect for displaying frequently used items, books, and decorative pieces. Keep essentials within easy reach and add a touch of personality to your office. Cupboards are great for hiding away clutter and maintaining a clean, professional aesthetic. Use closed storage to keep less frequently used items, personal belongings, and any unsightly cords or equipment out of sight.
Our modular units are designed to maximise vertical space, making them ideal for smaller rooms or multi-functional areas. And if you’re really tight on space, consider our built-in desk options to further enhance functionality. We offer a range of pre-designed home office setups on our website, tailored to fit various needs and spaces. If our pre-designed units don’t hit the mark, you can unleash your creativity with our online product configurator and design your own perfect setup.
Personalise Your Space
A personalised workspace can enhance creativity, boost motivation, and make you feel more comfortable. Tailoring your home office to reflect your personality and preferences can transform it into a space where you feel inspired and productive.
Incorporate items that reflect your personality and inspire you throughout the day. This can include artwork that you love, whether they are paintings, prints, or sculptures. Choose art that evokes positive emotions and stimulates creativity. Frame or pin up quotes that inspire and motivate you.
Bring a bit of the outdoors in with houseplants to add a touch of nature and improve air quality. Think about plants like snake plants, spider plants, or peace lilies, known for their air-purifying properties. Small, low-maintenance plants like succulents or cacti can live on your desk without taking up space, brightening your workspace, and reducing stress. If you’ve got room, go for larger potted plants in corners or next to your desk.
