Create An Inspiring Home Office During Lockdown
Good lighting, proper air circulation and a refreshing views are basic elements to have in a home … [+]
PHOTO COURTESY OF JARED SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY, STYLEFILES.COM
For most freelancers, the work-from-home situation is not the new normal. It is an intensified version of their everyday schedules, where the option to step out for overpriced designer coffee is not longer an option. It takes a certain type of discipline to be able to to get out of bed or peel away from current Netflix series to get productive. This is most especially true when the line between work and rest is a mere five feet away or less.
How do you enhance productivity and harness creativity while cooped up at home for days on end? Having worked as a freelance writer and consultant for several years, I’ve always found that getting far away from my bed is the first step to ticking off my long to-do list. The simple act of making my bed, jumping in the shower and getting dressed (and out of my jammies), signals my mind and body to get on work mode.
A space that’s dedicated for work is key to being productive, especially during lockdown. One of the main reasons for this is that this sense of structure keeps you from being distracted about which items to work on first. Reasons for setting up a home office will more or less run parallel to the countless reasons why you should avoid bring work into your bedrooms. Not only does this disrupt focus and productivity, it also messes with your sleep.
A home office that inspires creativity is easy. It is also a great way to utilize quarantine time. Start with these basic guidelines and infuse them with your own personal style.
Pick a spot. Ideally, your home office should be quiet, well lit and have good air circulation. Place your desk near windows or by the balcony or terrace so you get enough natural light. A good view from this spot is also always the best source of inspiration. Make sure that your work area is also within close proximity with power outlets so that you can easily charge gadgets like your laptops, tables and smartphones.
Your workspace should be located near windows, balcony or looking out to a view.
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Choose the right desk. Depending on the space available, your work table should be able to accommodate all the work essentials without it looking too cramped or crowded. Correct height is important. Here is the basic rule for choosing the writing desk that fits you best. When seated and while on your computer, your eyes should be level with the top of the screen. Subsequently, your forearms and shoulders should be able to rest comfortably as you type away.
MERIDIANI Cruis Writing Desk
PHOTO COURTESY OF MERIDIANI
Your Armchair, Your Throne. Finding the perfect office chair is like finally meeting “the one.” This is not to say it will be a tough search. More to the point, this only emphasizes the fact that one of the best investments you will ever make is a chair that will keep you cozy through all those deadlines and emails. In short, never make compromises when it comes to finding a chair that you want to spend eight hours of your day with. Make sure that apart from being pretty, it is ergonomically designed so you don’t get back pains or cramps. Ideally, your chair should be at a height where you are able to rest your feet on the ground. If you are looking to create an office space where you can also take breaks to read a book or do a quick nap, then consider something that reclines and may be adjusted.
VIBIEFFE Dream Chair is build with motors so you can adjust backrest, seat and footrest.
PHOTO COURTESY OF VIBIEFFE
Clear Away The Clutter. An organized work area helps enhance clarity and focus. It also makes it easier to find things like small (yet very important) notes, or simply, your favorite pen. Depending on the type of work you do, there are countless ways keep the clutter at bay. It begins with the right kind of storage. A filing cabinet is not the chicest choice for a home office so look into modular cabinets or statement bookcases that also go seamlessly with the rest of your home.
BONALDO Summer Bookcase is ideal for organizing work papers and can also double as a writing desk.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BONALDO
Create A Sense of Calm. As with other spaces in a home, the right ambience will set the tone for your time spend in your home office. Keep a few aromatic candles nearby to can do wonders in energizing the mind at the start of each productive day. Indoor plants are also a great way to bring the outdoors inside. Get creative with how you arrange fauna and enjoy your space.
MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN Les Tamaris Scented Candle brings aromas of solar flower, smoked coffee and … [+]
PHOTO COURTESY OF MAISON FRANCIS KURKDIJIAN
BOSA Dogsai Sculpture also functions as a miniature greenhouse so you can bring the outdoors to your … [+]
PHOTO COURTESY OF BOSA
Make Your Office Your Haven. A cold, clinical home office is a sad, sad sight. Given that you will be spending a lot of hours in this space, you want to make sure that it is relaxing, pleasing and inspiring. Add pieces to your space that ring in creativity without distracting you from tasks at hand. A throw blanket or pillows are great for when you need a minute to think. If you have the luxury of space, add in an accent chair as well. If you are the type who finds stimulation from visual objects, consider adding art or art inspired décor to your space.
FORNASETTI Abbaglio Pillows are whimsical pieces that inspire bright ideas.
PHOTO COURTESY OF FARFETCH.COM
WILLIAM SONOMA Cashmere Chevron Throw with monogram details to help you stay comfy while working.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WILLIAM SONOMA
BOSA T Tables by Jamie Hayon are stunning accents to add in your workspace.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BOSA
