19 Home Office Ideas to Empower Your Workday


19 Home Office Ideas to Empower Your Workday

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Working from home has become the norm for many people, and with that comes the need to have access to a comfortable and functional home office space, that isn't the dining room table!

Designing one that is both aesthetically pleasing and conducive to productivity can have its challenges, but I hope to give you some home office decor ideas that will help you create the perfect space for getting things done, whilst not scrimping on aesthetics.

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Whether you have a small corner, a large empty room or wish to create an office in your garage, I'll show you how to make the most of your space and create a home office that you'll want to spend time in.

Make Use of Floating Shelves

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When it comes to wall storage solutions in a home office, floating shelves offer several useful benefits. One of the most notable is the ability to provide additional storage space without taking up valuable room on your floor. This is particularly helpful in small spaces, where every inch counts.

Another great advantage of using floating shelves is their versatility. They can be easily installed and customised to the correct size to fit your specific storage needs, such as holding books or office supplies. This allows for a more efficient use of space and a more organised work area.

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Shelves Are Not Just About Storage

In addition to their practicality, floating shelves can also add a modern and minimalist aesthetic to the home office, creating a visually appealing work area that is both functional and stylish.

Unlike traditional shelves, they are easy to clean and maintain, very durable and will last for some time, which is important when it comes to investing wisely in any home office idea.

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Consider Bold Wallpaper

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Not only can wallpaper add a pop of colour and personality to any home office design, but it can also make the space feel more like a comfortable room and not just a clinical work area. Using bold wallpaper on an accent wall can also help to define the home office area itself, this is particularly useful to make it feel like a separate designated area within the room it shares.

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The bold colour or pattern can also create a sense of drama and interest in the room, making it a more vibrant and motivating place in which to work.

Finally, adding wallpaper to a home office can be a cost-effective way to update and personalise its decor, instantly changing the look and feel of the room. Otherwise, the only other options would be doing nothing, or having to repaint the the entire room.

Create a Peaceful Home Office Space

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When it comes to home office ideas, creating a peaceful place to work is essential for achieving optimal productivity and a relaxed atmosphere. One of the first steps in this process is to declutter and organise your space to suit your specific needs.

By simply getting rid of anything that you no longer need or use, you can clear the way for a more serene and orderly environment in which to work.

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Consider Calming Neutral Tones

When it comes to home office colour choices, neutral tones will give you the most peaceful aesthetic, creating a calming atmosphere that promotes focus and concentration. You can choose colours such as white, grey or beige, or stick with one colour, but play with its different shades.

Incorporating natural elements into your home office design ideas can add a further sense of calm, whilst also making the space feel more lively and cheerful.

Go Bright and Bold

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Incorporating bold colours into your home office decor creates a more energising and inspiring work environment. Bright and vibrant hues can have a positive impact on creativity and productivity, making work tasks feel more enjoyable and less mundane.

Not only do bold colours have a psychological impact, but they can also make a space feel larger and more open, affording a sense of spaciousness and freedom. A step beyond this is taking a person's style and personality and using it within the home office design. This will make the space feel more inviting, homely and an enjoyable place to spend time, unlike many traditional offices.

Who knows, you may feel even more compelled to work!

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Add a Whiteboard or Two

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Whiteboards generally remind people of a corporate office setting, so it is no surprise that when it comes to creating a functional and efficient home office, they are often overlooked.

However, not only do they add a touch of professionalism and organisation to any workspace, but they also provide a range of practical benefits that can help boost productivity and creativity.

One obvious benefit of hanging whiteboards on your home office wall is the ability to easily visualise and organise tasks and ideas directly in front of you. Whether you're working on a project, planning out your schedule, or jotting down reminders, having a dedicated space to write it all down can help keep your desk clutter-free and your mind more focused.

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Further Benefits of Whiteboards

Whiteboards are also reusable, making them a more eco-friendly option compared to paper notes. This is especially important if you find yourself frequently updating your to-do lists or brainstorming new ideas. With a whiteboard, it is easy to wipe it clean and start afresh.

Finally, whiteboards can also be an effective collaboration tool for virtual meetings, allowing for easy sharing of ideas and information with remote team members. With a whiteboard, you can brainstorm together, make notes, and share information in real time, regardless of where you are located. This can help foster teamwork and improve communication, even when working remotely.

Introduce Some Industrial Style

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When designing a home office, the choice of furniture is crucial both aesthetically and for functionality. One piece that can add both style and practicality to the space is an industrial-style bookshelf.

Industrial design offers a unique rustic charm that can add character and warmth to any home office. Not only is it visually pleasing, but it also provides a great storage solution for books, office supplies and paperwork, helping to keep the workspace clutter-free and organised.

Rustic industrial furniture in particular is made from durable materials like metal and wood, making it ideal for heavy use in an office environment. This is especially important for bookshelves, which need to be able to hold heavy items without sagging or warping over time.

A final benefit of incorporating industrial design elements into a home office setting is that it can provide a pleasing contrast to more traditional office furniture, creating a visually interesting and dynamic-looking space. It also breaks the monotony of a conventional office design, adding originality.

Move the Office Outdoors

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There are numerous benefits to having an outdoor space in which to locate your home office, whether it be a shed, summerhouse office or bespoke pod that is built for purpose. The natural light that floods in can do wonders for, not only your mood but also your productivity.

Studies have shown that exposure to natural light can help to regulate our circadian rhythm and improve our overall well-being. The fresh air and connection to nature can also provide a sense of calm and tranquillity that cannot be replicated indoors.

Being located in an outside setting also enhances air circulation, this can help improve your overall health and combat the negative effects of being in a sedentary work environment.

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A Change of Scenery

Another benefit of having an outdoor office space is the change of scenery compared to if you worked within the home itself. Being in a different environment can break up the monotony of home working and provide a refreshing change of pace. It's a great way to rejuvenate your mind and stay focused throughout the day.

Lastly, a garden office can provide more privacy and a quiet place in which to work, which can be especially beneficial if you live in a crowded environment. It's an opportunity to create a dedicated space that is separate from the rest of your home and provides a sense of sanctuary for you to focus on your work without constant interruption.

Create a Small Alcove Office Area

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Often tucked away in a living room, bedroom, or hallway, these small nooks can be transformed into the perfect home office desk space.

By simply adding a small computer desk with a computer screen and an office chair to the alcove space will create a designated work area. This will help to separate work and leisure activities, making it easier to focus on important work tasks.

Storage is also crucial in any small home office, so installing shelves or storage units in the alcove can provide much-needed space to hold office supplies, documents, and any other essentials you may need. This will keep your workspace organised and clutter-free.

Don't Neglect Lighting

Proper lighting is essential for any home office. A table lamp or overhead lighting can be added to the alcove, providing adequate lighting for the dark space. This will ensure that your work area is well-lit and comfortable to work in. A fold-down or floating desk is a great solution for this type of workspace and can be easily stored away when not in use. This allows you to maximise the space that you have and make the most of the alcove's footprint.

Finally, adding a small rug or carpet to the floor can create a more defined area in which to work, while also adding colour and texture to the office decor.

Consider a Height Adjustable Desk

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Designing a functional and comfortable home office is very important to the longevity of the space. One piece of furniture in particular that would be of benefit, is a standing or height adjustable desk. Not only does it add a sleek and modern look, but it also offers health benefits for the user.

Using a height-adjustable desk will help with overall posture and reduce strain on the back and neck. This is important if you spend long hours sitting on your desk chair in front of a computer. The ability to adjust the desk to the perfect height whenever required can help prevent slouching, promoting a healthier alignment of the spine.

The Medical Benefits of a Height Adjustable Table

Research has also shown that standing at a desk can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. These conditions are often linked to prolonged sitting, making the ability to stand and move around a crucial part of maintaining good health.

Finally, by alternating between sitting and standing positions throughout the day, a height-adjustable desk can reduce the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other circulation-related issues. This is because standing improves blood flow, ultimately reducing the risk of blood clots.

Make the Most of Built-In Wall Units

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Built-in wall units are an excellent choice for any home office ideas as they add a great deal of additional storage space, while also providing a cohesive and tidy look. By having multiple storage areas up on the wall, not only can you maximise the possibilities of their use, but also clear valuable floor space for other office needs.

Office wall units also provide an opportunity for customisation, allowing you to tailor them to fit your space and specific storage needs. This level of control can increase the functionality of your home office and make it a more efficient and comfortable place to work.

Incorporating wall units into your home office design is a smart choice that will pay off in both the short and long term, potentially saving you hours.

Take a Look at Scandinavian Design

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Scandi design and styling refers to furniture that is inspired by the minimalist and functional design aesthetic of the Nordic countries. It is known for its clean lines, use of natural materials, and a heavy focus on functionality. Common materials used in Scandinavian office furniture include wood, leather, and metal. Examples of this include simple wooden desks, ergonomic office chairs, and storage solutions incorporating minimalist design.

Why is Scandi Furniture So Adored

Scandi office furniture is trendy and beloved for many reasons, one being that the style resonates with many people who appreciate the simplicity and elegance it brings to a space. Additionally, as Scandinavian furniture is often designed to be multi-functional and space-saving, it is a practical choice for people with smaller homes or limited space.

Another reason for the popularity of this furniture in recent years is the focus they have put on sustainability. Many Scandi furniture pieces are produced using eco-friendly and sustainable materials, making it a more responsible choice for the environment.

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Be Creative with Storage Solutions

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Creative storage solutions are key when it comes to designing a functional and efficient home office. A great way to achieve this is by utilising as much of the vertical space as possible. Wall-mounted shelves and hanging organisers can free up floor space and keep items easily accessible.

Another great option is incorporating multi-purpose furniture, such as under-counter cupboards or a desk with built-in drawers, which provide additional storage options without taking up extra room.

Accessibility is Key

In addition to maximising the use of the space you have, it is also important to make sure that the items stored are easily accessible. Pinboards, cubby holes and whiteboards are all great solutions for organising the wall space and placing things within handy reach.

Finally, utilising clear storage drawers and labelling each one with its contents can make it easy to find and access the items you need, while also keeping the work or built-in desk space looking neat, tidy and organised.

Utilise Under Stairs for Home Office

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An under-stairs home office zone is a smart and stylish solution for those looking to optimise unused or underutilised space in their home. Office spaces created in this way can be especially beneficial for small or cluttered homes, where every bit of spare space is important.

Having a dedicated workspace that is separate from the rest of the living space can also improve productivity and concentration, allowing you to focus on your work without distractions. Additionally, it can offer a sense of privacy and separation from the rest of the house, allowing for a quieter and more focused work environment.

Building an office area under stairs can also be a cost-effective solution, as it does not require the construction of a dedicated room or an extension.

Not only is the use of this space both practical and functional, but it can also be a unique and visually interesting design element in your home. With the right interior design scheme, it will add character and charm to your existing living space, creating an inviting and stylish work environment.

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Add Plants and Greenery

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Another great home office idea is to utilise plants in your home office. Not only do plants help to improve the overall air quality of any space by removing toxins and increasing oxygen levels, but they also provide a calming and soothing presence that can help to reduce stress and improve mood.

In addition to their psychological benefits, plants can also have a positive impact on productivity and creativity. The presence of plants in a room can help to create a more visually appealing space, which in turn can help to inspire and motivate you, hopefully making you more productive.

Plants Can Be As Minimal or Elaborate as You Wish

Incorporating plants into your home office decor can be as simple as adding a few small succulents or herbs on your desk, or if the space allows, as elaborate as creating a living wall feature. Regardless of the size or type of plants you choose, they will undoubtedly bring life and energy to your home office design.

Finally, a small water feature such as a tabletop fountain can also be a calming addition to your office, as the sound of gently running water can help you to relax and focus (or possibly need the toilet!)

Disguise Your Home Office

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Creating home offices that are functional and efficient is important when designing your space, or mulling over various home office ideas. With the rise of remote working and more and more people running their businesses from home, having a designated space to work is becoming increasingly necessary.

One of the key benefits of being able to hide or disguise your home office is that it can increase productivity and focus when you are working. This is because it is easier to mentally shift into “work mode” and focus your mind when you have a dedicated area within which to work, instead of just sitting at the dining table or on the living room sofa with a laptop on your knees.

This is especially important when working from home, where the lines between work and leisure time can often become blurred.

Additional Benefits to Hiding Your Office Away

In addition to increasing productivity, being able to hide away from these types of home offices can also create a better work-life balance. By physically separating the two areas with room dividers for instance, it becomes easier to disconnect from work when the day is over and relax in the rest of your living space.

Another benefit of a hidden home office is that it can help to create a more organised and tidy living area. By dedicating a specific space for work-related items, it becomes easier to keep the rest of the living space clutter-free.

Lastly, being able to close away your home office can also provide some form of privacy and security, as if you work with sensitive information, having a private space to work in can be essential. With a hidden or lockable office, it becomes easy to close the door and keep work-related items out of sight when not in use.

If you are unable to hide or close your workspace, consider either locating it in a separate room, such as a guest room or adding a room divider to the existing space.

Go for Style Over Practicality

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While functionality is crucial with any home office ideas, the aesthetic appeal of the decor should not be overlooked. A stylish home office can do wonders for your motivation and inspiration, making you feel more productive and energised while you work. It can also make the space more inviting and comfortable, which is essential if you spend a significant amount of time working from home.

Moreover, a well-designed home office is ultimately a reflection of your personality and style, making you feel more at home in your own space. Not only is it a place where you spend a lot of your time, but it's also somewhere that can be used to impress clients or guests when they visit. A stylish home office can be a powerful tool to showcase your taste and professionalism.

Therefore, it's worth investing time and effort into creating a home office that is both functional and stylish. A combination of practicality and style will create an office space that is both productive and pleasant to spend time in.

Consider all Lighting Options

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Proper efficient lighting is essential for any home offices, not only for its aesthetic value but also for its functional benefits.

Adequate lighting can reduce eye strain and fatigue, making it easier and more comfortable to work for longer periods. This can lead to an improvement in productivity and concentration, which is especially important in any work environment.

In addition, the right lighting can create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making the office more appealing to work in. It can also be used to highlight certain areas or features of a room, such as artwork or a bookshelf, creating a focal point that adds depth and interest to the space.

What Are The Cons of Poor Lighting

Adversely, poor lighting can not only cause discomfort but also make a room appear smaller and less inviting. This will negatively affect the overall atmosphere and productivity of the space. That is why it is very important to carefully consider the lighting that you use.

When selecting lighting, along with other home office ideas, it's important to consider both task and ambient lighting. For task lighting, a desk light, floor lamp or adjustable flexible wall light can provide focused light for reading, writing and computer work. For ambient lighting, a ceiling or wall-mounted light can provide a good overall illumination for the space.

It is also recommended to use a combination of warm and cool white light to create a comfortable and productive environment. Additionally, natural light should be utilised wherever possible, such as that from windows or skylights.

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Add a Large Corkboard to the Wall

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As I work from home myself, I recommend incorporating a large corkboard into your office workspace. Not only does it serve as a functional tool for displaying and organising important documents, images, and notes, but it also keeps everything constantly in view so that it is not forgotten.

Not only can utilising a corkboard keep your work area clutter-free, but it can also serve as a useful tool for brainstorming and creating mind maps. The versatility of a corkboard also allows you to easily move and rearrange ideas as needed, making it a great tool for creative thinking.

In addition, a corkboard provides a blank canvas for decorating your office with personal touches. Photos, artwork, and mementoes can be displayed to add a touch of personality to your home office and make your space feel more like home.

Another, lesser-considered benefit of a corkboard, is its natural sound insulation properties. Cork absorbs sound and reduces echo, creating a more peaceful and quiet environment for working. This can be helpful if you share your work space with others, or your office wall adjoins a neighbour.

Design a Highly Functional Office Space

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The key to designing a highly functional home office is to start by selecting a room or area that is quiet, has plenty of artificial or natural light, and has enough space to accommodate your work needs. In this case a loft conversion office space. Once you have identified the perfect place, it's time to furnish it with the right furniture, tools and other relevant office equipment to help you stay organised and efficient.

A comfortable desk chair, sturdy desk, and appropriate storage solutions are essential for any home office decor. These furniture pieces will not only provide a comfortable and ergonomic space for you to work in but will also help keep your work space organised.

In addition to these key elements, it is also important to incorporate other items that will aid in your productivity such as a task lamp, a calendar, and a whiteboard. These items will help you to stay on track and motivated throughout the working day.

Another important aspect of designing a functional home office space is to ensure that you have a good internet connection and any other tools or equipment you may need for your specific work. This may include a computer, printer, or any specialised software or tools that are required for your specific work.

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My Final Thoughts

I hope that each of these home office ideas has given you a variety of working space solutions and decor tips that will get your creative juices flowing, helping you to create a comfortable and functional space, or separate room, for your work space.

From incorporating the right furniture and storage solutions to adding plants and choosing the right colour scheme or wall covering, these stylish home office ideas, tips and suggestions can be easily adapted to any space or personal style.

Remember to keep in mind ergonomics and functionality as you design your space, and don't forget to personalise your office with items that inspire you and make you feel comfortable. This could include artwork or photos that bring a sense of calm and serenity to the space. Personal touches can also serve as a source of inspiration and motivation, helping to keep you focused and productive.

If you need help with any of your home office ideas or require some more creative inspiration, don't be afraid to get help from a qualified interior designer. They do this for a living, so they understand all the elements of designing the perfect home office.

Author: Matthew Chiappini

Author Bio: Matthew studied art and design at Stamford college, including interior design and colour theory. He still has a great love for art, home decor and interior design and is a keen DIYer, having worked as a carpenter after leaving school. Matthew has been writing home and home decor articles since 2020.

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