The best home office is the one that helps you stay as productive as possible. For that to happen, you need to purchase some essential items and add them to your office. Now, what you buy is a very individual decision, but regardless of that, you should always follow these eight design tips when building your home office.
While building out your home office, you don’t want to overestimate or underestimate what you’ll need to maximize your productivity. This can easily lead to frustration if you aren’t sure what the essentials are.
So, in this article, we will talk to you about the 5 most essential items every home office (including yours) needs.
1. Dedicated Workstation
Having a proper workstation set up in your office is very important, especially when you’re working from home. The best option for a great workstation is an ergonomic desk. You want to pick somewhere that will allow you to comfortably complete all or most of your work with minimal distractions
The best ergonomic desk option is a standing desk, either adjustable or fixed. A desk like the EQ5 Active Standing Desk will give you the option to stretch and move throughout the day.
Keep in mind that you’ll want enough space for your computer or laptop, any monitors you’ll need, and any other necessary items you’ll need to keep in reach during work. Also, make sure you’re considering the size of your office space.
2. Comfortable Chair
Another very important part of your office essentials is your office chair. Take your time when selecting a chair for your office space so that you can invest in a good one that suits your needs. The two key things to keep in mind when shopping for an office chair are ergonomics and comfort.
If you can test your office chair before you buy it, you definitely should. Your chair is a vital part of your space, especially if you work at a computer. The best office chair will have back support and promote posture while you’re seated, like the BS1B Flexi-Chair Back Support Office Chair.
Other great features to keep in mind when searching for an office chair are an adjustable seat, armrests, a backrest, rollers, and the ability to swivel. These features will allow you to easily maneuver around your office while staying comfy.
3. Adequate Computer Set-Up
This one is probably the most obvious of all items on the list. Chances are, no matter what you do while working from home, you’ll end up needing a computer set-up of some sort. Luckily, there are various set-ups to choose from, so you can find one that fits your workday needs.
Make sure you do your research when picking out a proper computer for your home office so that you can choose one that meets your needs and that fits the type of work you’re doing. Depending on your type of work, you can choose either a laptop or desktop.
Some important features to consider when searching for a computer for your home office are screen resolution, speed, and storage space. If you choose a desktop, you’ll want to also pick out a proper monitor or two, depending on what you require.
4. Storage to Suit Your Needs
You’ll need a suitable mix of drawers, cabinets, and shelves to keep your office organized. No doubt there are important papers and other office essentials that will need a place in your workspace.
If you don’t have very many things to display or papers to keep organized, you could opt for a simple cabinet to hold all of your office necessities. Small moveable cabinets are also very useful, as they can be shifted around your office as needed or hidden away under your desk if there’s enough room.
If you do have a lot of papers to organize, a proper filing cabinet is the way to go. There are many organizational pieces that can complement a home office and suit your specific storage needs.
5. Appropriate Lighting
Lighting can greatly affect how you feel in your home office. The right lighting will allow you to be more productive and remain in a good mood throughout the day. Lighting that is too dim or too bright can impact not only your mental health but your physical health, as well.
Improper lighting can strain your eyes, cause headaches, and negatively affect your mood. It’s very important to make sure your home office has adequate lighting that allows you to get your work done. This goes beyond the ceiling light in the space you choose for your office.
Task lighting is incredibly important, and you’ll want specific lighting geared towards reading and writing. You can find many desk lamps that don’t take up space and are a great aid for specific tasks.
Conclusion
Setting up a home office can seem like a hugely daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Keep in mind these five essential items every home office needs when beginning your working from home journey.
Each item plays an important role, not just in function but also in keeping you productive and comfortable throughout the day. Take your time looking through all of the options to find one that fits your needs and the space of your office the best.
Try not to worry too much about the little things. As long as you have the essential items, your home office is well on the way to success.