With shifts towards remote work and hybrid working models, working out how to stay focused and efficient whilst working from home has become a necessity. With kids running around in the background and your partner constantly on a Zoom or Teams call — focus can be difficult to find.
Although there’s no way to block out every distraction, there are a few things that you can do to nullify most of them and stay relatively focused in your home workspace.
A well-organised home office can make a world of difference when it comes to working out how to get those tasks ticked off in time for tea.
Creating such a space in small homes or tackling disorganised setups can, however, be challenging. We’ve put together a blog that will guide you through actionable tips to maximise your home office potential, including the strategic use of business storage and solutions like Storage King office space.
Why Does Home Office Design Matter?
How a Well-Designed Home Office Impacts Your Well-Being
Your work environment plays a critical role in shaping your mindset towards your work, can have a significant impact on your mood and will ultimately affect your performance. A thoughtfully designed home office can boost your productivity, enhance focus and even improve your overall well-being.
How a Badly Designed Home Office Can Negatively Affect You
Cluttered and inefficient setups, particularly in small spaces, are common pain points that can hinder your workflow and cause unnecessary stress. When papers pile up, office supplies get misplaced or furniture doesn’t suit your needs, your ability to concentrate and stay productive takes a hit.
Investing in effective home office furniture and smart office storage solutions will help you create a workspace that promotes efficiency and creativity. Not to mention, a well-organised office saves time and reduces stress, making it easier to meet deadlines and achieve your goals.
So, without further ado, let’s crack on with the fun part.
Key Principles of Home Office Design
Maximise Space
Space is often a premium in home offices, especially in smaller homes or apartments. But with a little creativity and strategic planning, you can make the most of even the tiniest workspaces.
Use Vertical Space: Install shelves, wall organisers and storage cabinets to keep items off your desk and floor. These solutions free up valuable surface area while keeping essentials within reach.
Consider Cupboard Storage Solutions: for concealing clutter and maintaining a clean, professional look. Closed storage options help create a visually tidy environment, which can enhance focus.
Think multifunctional: Maximise your workspace by integrating storage into your furniture. For example, opt for desks with built-in shelves or monitor risers that double as organisers.
Choose Functional Furniture
Your choice of furniture directly impacts the functionality and comfort of your workspace. It’s essential to select pieces that align with your work habits and space constraints.
Incorporate space-saving solutions such as foldable desks or modular pieces that adapt to your needs. For instance, a compact desk with extendable sections can offer additional workspace when needed.
Ensure your home office furniture aligns with ergonomic standards to support long hours of work. An adjustable chair with proper lumbar support and a desk at the correct height can prevent strain and discomfort.
It might seem like a small thing, but it can really make a big difference when you consider how many hours a week you spend sitting in a chair!
Enhance Lighting and Office Decor
Lighting and decor play a crucial role in maintaining motivation and focus. Poor lighting can cause eye strain and fatigue, while uninspiring decor may dampen your enthusiasm for work.
Leverage natural light wherever possible. Position your desk near a window to enjoy daylight and a view, both of which can reduce stress and enhance creativity.
Supplement with adjustable desk lamps for evening work. Choose lamps with adjustable brightness levels to suit various tasks.
Add personalised office decor such as motivational quotes, indoor plants or photographs of friends and family to create an inspiring environment. These elements can make your workspace more inviting and reflective of your personality.
Smart Storage Ideas for a Small Home Office
Explore tried and tested, smart office organisation ideas such as:
- Under-desk organisers, rolling carts and wall-mounted storage units. These options help you make the most of every inch of your workspace.
- Apply practical storage tips such as categorising items by frequency of use to maintain a clutter-free desk.
Don’t forget about digital storage! Invest in a reliable cloud storage service to keep your digital files organised and easily accessible while reducing physical paperwork.
Off-site Storage Solutions
For seasonal items or documents you rarely use, consider off-site business storage options such as those offered by Storage King.
Our facilities offer secure units tailored for office overflow, ensuring your home office remains organised and productive.
Off-site storage can also be a lifesaver for home-based entrepreneurs who need to store inventory or bulky equipment. By relocating these items, you free up valuable space for your daily work activities.
When Space at Home Isn't Enough
Renting Office Space
Sometimes, a home office isn’t enough to meet your professional needs. Luckily for you, several alternative options have popped up over the last few years. Shared office or coworking spaces are designed for effective collaboration and productivity.
Shared office spaces can provide:
- A distraction-free environment for focused work.
- Opportunities to network and collaborate.
- A clutter-free space that is always well-maintained.
At Storage King, we’ve got an option for every team. Whether you’re looking to work solo or to host a collaborative session with 10+ innovators, we’ve got you covered.
Plus, our servicing offering includes:
- Staffed reception
- Convenient on-site parking
- A shared kitchen
- Shredding services
- And inclusive business rates
Bonus tip: Check out our guide on how much it costs to rent office space in the UK.
Ready to Get to Work?
An organised and well-designed home office is a powerful tool for boosting productivity and focus. By maximising space, choosing functional furniture, enhancing lighting and leveraging smart storage solutions, you can transform your workspace into a productivity powerhouse.
For overflow storage or when your home office space just isn’t enough, consider Storage King’s business storage units or office space solutions. With the right strategies, you can create a workspace that supports your professional and personal goals.
If you’re ready to get to work, get in touch with our team today and we’ll help you find the perfect workspace for your needs.