History will look back at our present day and describe it as the time when the work from home movement took hold. Catalyzed, of course, by the COVID-19 pandemic, today’s workforce is taking on a remote setup in increasing numbers, with millions of employees across the world expressing their preference for a work-from-home lifestyle. After lockdowns and business closures thrust our economy into an experimental phase, it is clear that the trend is here to stay and will continue to redefine the shape of work in the future.
As we take on this new form of work, we reconstruct and reassess our existing notions of a workstation or home office. While we are improving our overall lifestyles by eliminating our commute and the stresses of being in the physical office, it is important that we consciously and intentionally set up a home office that maximizes our productivity, happiness, and comfort.
Here are 5 tips for establishing the ideal home-office space….
- Make the most of your desk
It may seem like a no-brainer, but your desk is everything; it will be the foundation for your workday. Consider where your setup will be located and determine the best use of space. Often, an L-shape desk maximizes space while adapting smoothly to the architecture of the room. As our culture builds a new routine around a new way of working, L-shaped desks are a perfect suit the needs of every remote worker. At ODK, L-shaped desks come in a variety of dimensions and finishes to match your taste and needs.
- Get the furniture right
Once you have your desk in place, it is important to make sure the rest of your furniture is suiting your physical needs. Pick out a comfortable chair that will give you the most back support and cushion. To ensure that you keep healthy posture while you work, check out footrests that can help keep your body aligned and pain free. Finally, fight off carpal tunnel by investing in a keyboard and mouse cushion support for your wrists.
- Use multiple computer monitors
If you are someone who works on multiple documents at a time or is constantly switching between tasks and programs, a multiple-monitor setup will make your life easier and your days more productive. Keep email open on one monitor as you create reports and charts in the other and avoid the consistent disruptions in your workflow that result from flicking between tabs and windows in one cramped monitor.
- Focus on lighting
Lighting is key to keeping your eyes healthy and alert. Position yourself near windows to get natural light during the day and set yourself with various lamps of adjustable brightness to cater to the darker winter months. If you are someone who needs a well-lit computer screen area and keyboard, consider a monitor light that illuminates your direct work area.
- Personalize your space!
Finally, personalize. Make the most of your space and surroundings with your favorite posters, artwork, pictures, and small trinkets that mean the most to you. Incorporate plants to bring life to the area and add some details that make your space exciting and inviting, inspiring you to sit down to work every day.
As you put together your ideal work environment, visit the desks in our store and find one that works for you.