Here are seven expert tips to incorporate in home offices to create inspirational and functional spaces.

Work from home is the new normal. It is the order of the day. Many companies across the globe have asked their employees to work from home. In such a sudden shift of events, everyone is grappling to come to terms with this new idea. Working styles are changing and people are adjusting fast to the new need world over. And this shift in our lifestyle seems to be long term and is here to stay.

But how best can we weave our own little work cocoon which helps us enhance our performance without feeling homely. Relaxed and comfortable enough but not inducing complacency. A well-equipped domain which inspires us to look beyond these times and instills much-needed hope and optimism in us. I am listing here seven broad markers which if incorporated into in-home office interiors can help create an ambiance that is conducive for work.

Though work from home has its share of cons there are pros which are worth considering. I have always felt that it helps increase our productivity due to the flexibility it offers in terms of working hours. You have more work hours at your disposal that too as per your convenient time slots. Its much more efficient as the time lost in travel is saved along with the harassment of traffic jams. One is in better control of both home and office affairs. It is economical for self-employed professionals as many resources get shared. And of course, the best quality home-cooked food and snacks that you get in between is the bonus.

1. LIGHTING

If you are fortunate to have natural light then make maximum out of it. Otherwise, arrange for an apt amount of ambient and task lights by carefully planned downlighters in the ceiling. Good lighting always energizes us and keeps a home office from feeling gloomy. Don’t forget to add some accent lights like a pendant or a lamp, which enhances a space even when they are off.

Especially in a profession like ours where a lot of color matching and sampling is required ample light is a must.

2. SEGREGATION

Select a well-defined area for your home office setup. Make sure it is clearly demarcated from the rest of the house. Choose the size of the area as per your requirements. But go for a separate, spare room or some basement area or a room on a separate floor if possible. If that is not possible then put up some kind of a partition in the area you want to use.

The boundary between your personal and professional domain must not be blurry.

3.ERGONOMICS

An ergonomically designed chair where you can work for long hours is highly recommended. There are many brands available to choose from. These chairs are height adjustable and provide lumbar support, arm support, and back support. Long working hours should not be tiring.

Do check on the height of your workstation with respect to your chair height. The standard height for a workstation is 750 mm or 2′-6″.

Apart from this add some casual seating, maybe in a bold color, for small breaks and some informal conversations over a cup of coffee.

4. TECHNOLOGY

Make your office space tech-savvy. An efficient office automation system can be installed to create a smart office that uses internet-enabled gadgets to create an environment that is secure, comfortable, and energy-efficient. Make a list of what all would be required for you to be well equipped. Smart T.V. for video conferences and presentations, smart LED lights with sensors, security devices, speakers, air purifiers, LAN, hi-speed internet connection, interconnected PCs, printers, etc. What all and how much you need really depends on your professional requirements and your commitment to space but a small investment definitely goes a long way.

5. BOOKS

Display your proud possession in your office. No matter how many books and another material is now available online but nothing like the pleasure of holding and feeling a book in your hands. Books not only add character to a space they are a good way of adding some color and texture. Display them in horizontal and vertical stacks to add some interest.

6.PERSONALIZE

Add some personality to space where you can feel most comfortable. It must have a stamp of you as an individual, reflecting your tastes and choices. Maybe your favorite color or the favorite painting. Paintings also add a lot of color and expression to any space. A painting that has been your company through your journey in time, or a newly acquired piece of art bursting colors, or maybe something like line sketches.

7.INSPIRATIONal AND GREEN

Something Inspiring: Don’t forget to add something that inspires you through the day. Maybe an inspirational quote or maybe a picture reminding you of divine presence.

Greenery always adds life and soul to your space. Consider low maintenance indoor plants like ZZ plant, snake plant, areca palm, etc They relaxing and aesthetic. Add some serenity to space. Plants have air purification quality too. If you want to know more about plant styling tips, click here.

Many self-employed people have always preferred to work from home and with the current situation, the shift towards working from home concept is going to increase. I think if we make this shift in a well-planned and thoughtful manner it is going to be a much more enjoyable experience. Who knows maybe it proves to be a blessing in disguise!

Stay safe ! Stay Home ! and Work from Home !

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