If you work from home, you know how important it is to have a functional, comfortable workspace; working from the kitchen table might work occasionally, but it’s not a great long-term solution.
Whether you’re lucky enough to have a dedicated space or you’ve carved out an office corner in another room, there’s a lot you can do to enhance your working from home setup.
We turned to a few designers to get their top tips on how to create an inspiring—and effective—home office.
Start with the Essentials
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The best place to start with your home office design is with your essentials. This is true whether you’re working with a blank space or reworking an established area.
As designer Valerie Cardozo points out, your most important staples are an ergonomic chair, a desk, and a reliable storage system. And if you’re nervous about losing style for function in the name of your spine, don’t worry.
“There are so many great options for ergonomic furniture now that don’t feel corporate, but are design forward,” says Cardozo.
Once these things are in place, you can layer in the pieces that will make your workspace feel like you.
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Prioritize Comfort
Along with a supportive chair and workable desk, designer Steven Graffam says you should absolutely prioritize comfort in the space.
“Comfort is key to productivity, so make sure your setup supports [that],” says Graffam.
These are the perks of working from home, so don’t be afraid to keep cozy essentials on hand. Add throw pillows, blankets, and other soft touches that allow for added comfort.
Make Bold Design Choices
Corporate offices can be sterile and bland, but this is your home—you can and should make it beautiful.
“Your home office should be a place you want to be, not just a place you have to be,” says designer Benji Lewis. “Don’t shy away from bold choices.”
This can include a moody wall color, a statement light fixture, or a gallery wall that inspires and excites you.
Create Reliable Storage Systems
Keeping clutter to a minimum is important in any workspace the best way to do this is with a reliable storage system.
“Use trays, baskets, or sleek storage boxes to keep everything tidy but within reach,” Cardozo says.
Invest in furniture that also functions as storage. Cardozo suggests hanging or placing floating shelves, a stylish credenza, or a beautiful bookshelf nearby. This can help you keep items off your desk but within reach.
“When space is at a premium, opt for multi-functional furniture—like ottomans with hidden storage—that maximizes every inch,” Cardozo says.
Use Clear, Defined Zones
Even in a small area like a corner, Cardozo says zones are important for a functional workspace. With intentional definition, you should create flow, feel inspired, and be productive in your office—or office area.
In a previous apartment, Cardozo did exactly that.
“I carved out a corner with a compact desk, a filing cabinet, and floating shelves, topped off with a pinboard to keep ideas front and center,” she says.
Along with bold wallpaper behind the desk, it became a dedicated area where she was free to be productive and creative.
Implement a Lighting Plan
No matter what your job entails, designer John Stivale says great lighting is an absolute must.
“Every great home office should have proper lighting for focus, [and to] help balance efficiency and creativity,” says Stivale.
Along with adding ambient light sources, try placing your desk near natural light, if possible.
Consider Virtual and Remote Working Needs
One common component of working from home is the need for regular video calls. If this applies to you, Cardozo suggests designing a room that helps your video calls feel low-stress and easier.
This includes adding drapery, rugs, and other textiles to help control the lighting and dampen the sound. But you also should consider your backdrop. Style your shelves, hang eye-catching artwork, and add plants for a polished and professional look.
“I’ve worked with clients who wanted their backdrop to double as a conversation starter, and—trust me—it pays off,” says Cardozo.
Remain Flexible
Even if you have your office in its own, dedicated room, Cardozo says to allow some flexibility in the space. You’re still at home, after all.
This can allow for some separation between work and play, and encourage you to keep strict work-from-home hours.
“By day, it’s your productivity hub; by night, a cozy reading nook or even a guest room,” says Cardozo.
This is an especially true point if space is tight. As Cardozo notes, it’s important to optimize every inch in a smaller office, corner, or nook.
