Help & advice
Start with the desk
It can be helpful to begin your home office layout with the desk's position and then work around that. The desk is the focal point of your workspace, and its placement will influence the flow and functionality of the entire room as well as impact your productivity levels.
Consider natural light: Position your desk near a window if possible. Natural light can boost productivity and reduce eye strain. However, ensure that your screen is positioned to avoid glare.
Optimise the position of power outlets: If you're adding new or moving sockets, be sure to position them close to your desk to avoid unsightly cords running across the room. If you're not able to change sockets, position your desk near existing outlets, this minimises installation costs and keeps the space tidy.
Take into account the features of the room
Consider any architectural features like windows, doors, or built-in shelves that might impact your home office setup.
Windows and views: If your room has a view, consider positioning your desk to face or be adjacent to the window. This can provide a refreshing break for your eyes and a more pleasant working environment.
Storage needs: Take note of where built-in storage or shelving units are located, or where you might need to add them. Proper storage is key to maintaining a clutter-free and efficient workspace.
Think about who will use the office
When designing your home office, think about who will be using the space and for what purpose.
Solo work vs. shared space: If the office will be shared, consider how to best arrange multiple workstations without disrupting each other. Dual desks or an L-shaped setup might be ideal.
Purpose-driven layout: If you primarily work on a computer, your layout might focus on monitor placement and ergonomic seating. For creative work, you might prioritise large surfaces and storage for materials.
Consider what will be seen through the doorway
It's more visually pleasing and less distracting if the first thing you see when entering the room is not a cluttered desk or a wall of files.
Create a welcoming entrance: Position the desk so that it's not directly facing the door but is still in a position where you can see the entrance. This creates a welcoming view and keeps the room feeling open and inviting.
Hide clutter: Use storage solutions that keep paperwork and office supplies out of sight when not in use, contributing to a more peaceful and productive environment.
Keep the doorway unobstructed
Keeping the entryway to your home office clear is essential to avoid the space feeling cramped. Avoid desk placement in doorways: A desk or chair that blocks the door's path can make the room feel tight and disorganised. Ensure there's a clear line of sight and easy movement through the doorway.
Allow space for movement and comfort
Ensuring there's ample room around your workspace is essential for comfort and productivity.
Room to move: Leave enough space behind your chair to comfortably get up and move around. Ideally, there should be at least 90 cm between the desk and any walls or other furniture.
Ergonimic considerations: Position your chair, desk, and monitor in a way that promotes good posture and reduces strain. Ensure that desk height, monitor position, and chair support align with ergonomic best practices.
Position items within easy reach
Make sure the things you use most often in your office are be easily accessible.
Desk essentials: Place frequently used items like your computer, phone, and notepads within easy reach. This reduces unnecessary movement and keeps you focused on your tasks.
Storage solutions: Keep important documents and office supplies in easily accessible drawers or shelves, ideally within arm's reach from your chair.
Optimise heating and ventilation
Comfort is key in a home office, so consider the positioning of radiators, fans, or air conditioning units.
Radiator placement: Similar to the bathroom, positioning a radiator under the window can help circulate warm air efficiently. Ensure that your desk isn't placed directly in front of a radiator to avoid discomfort.
Airflow: Position your desk to take advantage of natural airflow, or ensure that fans or air conditioners are placed where they won't blow directly onto you while you work.
Consider multiple layout options
Finally, as with bathroom design, you likely won't get the perfect layout on your first try.
Experiment with different layouts: Use room planning software like Reno or simply sketch out different configurations to see what works best. Test multiple setups before settling on the final design.
Adjust as needed: Over time, you may find that your needs change. Don't be afraid to rearrange furniture or add new elements to improve your workspace.
FAQs
What are the key considerations for a shared home office?
When designing a shared home office, consider the needs of both users. Ensure there's enough desk space for both, and provide separate storage to avoid clutter. Privacy screens or partitioned desks can help maintain focus. Each person should have easy access to power outlets and natural light if possible.
How do I make a small home office feel larger?
To make a small home office feel larger, use light colours and minimalistic furniture. Mirrors can reflect light and create a sense of more space. Keep the floor clear and use vertical storage to maximise capacity. Position the desk near a window to draw the eye outward, creating an illusion of space.
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