Designing an ideal: workspace for your home

As the landscape of work shifts dramatically towards remote and hybrid models, the need for a well-designed home office has never been more essential. A thoughtfully planned workspace not only enhances productivity but also contributes to a healthier work-life balance. From ergonomic setups to personalised comfort, each element plays a pivotal role in creating an effective home office.

Utilising existing spaces and furniture

The key to setting up an efficient home office is to use existing spaces and furniture creatively. Arifa Malik Bristy – CEO and architect of Irenderer – who manages her architectural firm from home most of the time, shares her expertise in crafting a workspace that is not only practical but also seamlessly integrated into our living spaces.

“For your workspace, you need a desk, a PC, maybe a printer and scanner, and you are good to go,” she explains. This approach is particularly beneficial for those with limited space, allowing them to convert a corner of a room into a productive area without significant investment or alteration.

Personalisation and comfort

Make your home office a space you enjoy spending time in. Shohan Akon Sunny, Manager, Marketing, Partex Furniture Ltd. and Ashley Furniture Homestores Ltd. informs, “Remote workers or outsourcers presently prefer multifunctional tables. As you spend most of your time working at your desk, you would want a comfortable, adjustable table that complements your height.

“Hence, the demand for multipurpose or multifunctional tables, which give you the options to with flexibility and ease.”

When it comes to personalising the workstation, it doesn’t have to be anything grandiose. According to Bristy, a house plant can add a pop of colour and has benefits for both aesthetics and eye health. Candles, with their subtle fragrance and warm light, can also enhance the space’s ambience, making it more pleasant and conducive to productivity.

Illuminating your productivity

Good lighting is an essential yet often overlooked component of home office design. Natural light is the best choice for reducing eye strain and boosting mood. Position your desk where it can benefit from maximum daylight but ensure that the light doesn’t cause a glare on your screen. For darker hours, invest in a combination of ambient and task lighting to provide sufficient illumination without being harsh.

Soundproofing

Effective soundproofing can greatly enhance your focus, especially in noisy environments. Acoustic panels, sound-absorbing foam, or even thick curtains can help dampen outside noise. For a simpler solution, consider noise-cancelling headphones, which can be invaluable during deep focus sessions or important calls.

Bristy emphasises the use of noise-cancelling headphones, especially important in a home environment where unexpected noises can disrupt focus and meetings. “When you are at home, there are chances that unwanted noise can interrupt your meeting, so it is better to use noise-cancellation headphones,” she advises.

Inspirations around you

Keep motivational elements around that remind you of your goals and aspirations. This could be as simple as a vision board, a set of inspirational quotes, or even a list of tasks that excite you about your work. These serve as continual reminders of why you do what you do and can keep your energy levels high throughout the day.

Remember, designing your home for remote work is not just about physical adjustments but also about creating a space that fosters productivity, health, and well-being. By making thoughtful choices such as space utilisation, décor, and technology, you can create a workspace that not only meets your professional needs but also enhances your overall living environment.