DIY Configure a Home Office Space That is Functional and Separates Work from Home

Home office spaces are becoming more and more popular among self-employed people and freelanced workers.

Are you designing a home office space that has the ultimate combination of functionality, by means of providing you the compatibility to work and live without dodging the idea of mixing the two? Functionality and comfort are the two important values when finding a desk to accommodate project files and a chair that supports your back.

Let’s face it, having a large painting staring down at your desk can be a bit distracting, “when there’s too much environmental stimulation that can actually be its own form of distraction,” says the Local Records Office. Keeping it simple with elegant color accessories, throw pillows and framed art are great ways to add a little color without it being abrupt.

Functionality of the Home Office Workspace

Depending on the circumstances of the space you have for your office, from the correct amount of lighting to its functionality are some of the major components when locating the right spot in your home.

Identify a space that is infrequently used, and determine your set-up plan. Draw out your furniture on graph paper until you end up with a workable space.

Home Office Natural light

Having natural light and being next to the windows is an ideal setup and gives you the benefits of capturing outside glimpses or take a few moments off the computer screen. Besides who wants to relive being in the cubicle all day? Select window coverings that will allow you full control of the light in the area.

Home Office Desk

Place the monitor at a comfortable distance from your chair to reduce eye strain. Also put the top of your computer at eye level or below so your eyelids are slightly closed, and you are not overworking your eyes.

Install a slide-out keyboard and ensure it is the right height, so it is easy to use. Put your computer mouse in an accessible place and provides cushioning for your wrists.

Home Office Storage and Shelving

Filing cabinets by adding color can add a sense of style and install shelving either above or behind your desk will give you that extra space set apart from your work. “Be sure books and supplies are at arm’s reach” says the Local Records Office. And in case you are a visible person, get wall storage such as magazine-style racks, or children’s library-style display shelves.

Home Office Comfortability at Arm’s Reach

Flooring must be a hard surface for the desk. A writing surface or work surface is where you spend the most time. Determine the right height with your furniture provides comfortability when writing and permits a smooth operating space.

Select a comfortable chair that provides good arch support. Having a footstool also provides comfort for your feet. Install lighting over your reading area and behind you so there is no reflection off your computer monitor and a table for your coffee.

The comfort zone is “the overlooked perk of the home office,” says the Local Records Office. “If you’ve got the room for it, it is one of the best things you can do for yourself.”

Home Office Greenery

Be sure to have green plants to create a lively atmosphere, it also adds to the nice surrounding.

Get personal

Rotating family photos and silly quotes daily creates a nice blend of ambiance instead of blending into the wall. Be sure to create that space you don’t normally get away with when stuck in an office cube.

Stock up

Having an excess of office supplies is a huge advantage, so you don’t keep going out every hour when you need things.

Learn to “turn off” business mode

Creating a separate work time to home time gets you in full-mode to work and puts your mind at ease. Let clients and professional contacts know to use a separate e-mail address for emergency after-hour situations.

This will put your mind at ease about missing things that are urgent.

Unwind after work

Take some “white space” time, it is a good way to unwind at the end of a workday and is that transition period between work hours to non-work hours. Take a ten-minute break to stretch or grab a cup of tea to take the edge off.