Studies show that around 41% of US workers and 20% of Canadian workers continue to work from home in some capacity, even post-pandemic.

Whether you have a hybrid schedule, work from home full time, or just need a dedicated space to tackle your to-do list, the right home office design can make all the difference.

Imagine a workspace that is a haven of productivity and inspiration, where every element is tailored to support your success and ready to meet your needs. Having a productive workday in your home office starts with your environment, and having clutter, bad lighting, and distractions can hinder your motivation.

From ergonomic furniture to clever organization hacks, get ready to discover how you can turn your home office into the ultimate productivity powerhouse!

Home office in Mitchell floor plan in the Villas Collection at Kissing Tree in San Marcos TX

Mitchell Floor Plan, Villas Collection, Kissing Tree Community, San Marcos, Texas

1. Prioritize Practicality

You’re excited to design your new space, and it’s more fun to think about the accessories and décor rather than functionality (trust us, we get it!). Before diving into how you want your home office to look, you have to create a functional foundation for your design.

Your home office doesn’t need to be a huge space or even its own dedicated room, but it should be somewhere reasonably quiet during your working hours and include a window for eye-strain relieving screen breaks.

Arrange your furniture and equipment in a way that promotes efficiency. Keep frequently used items within easy reach and set up your desk and keyboard in comfortable positions. Your screen should be arm’s length away and at, or slightly below, eye level. If you work on a laptop, raise it up using a laptop stand or a stack of books. You want your head and neck to be naturally vertical to reduce the strain on your neck, shoulders, and back.

Create separate zones for different tasks if needed (and your space allows). Have an area where you accomplish your main work, a zone for brainstorming and planning, and a quiet spot where you can disconnect and take a break.

2. Maximize Natural Light

Ideally, you should place your desk as close to a natural light source as possible, but if one isn’t available, bring in a floor or desk lamp. Layer your lighting so you have a task lamp for focused work and sufficient ambient lighting to reduce eye strain.

Think about placing your desk so you can face out a window. If you feel that may be too distracting, a side view may be better for your productivity.

Depending on your working hours, you may need to adjust for glare or direct sunlight, making it difficult to see your computer screen. Adjustable window treatments, like shutters, can be tilted as the sun moves throughout the day to help reduce the glare while maintaining decent levels of natural light overall.

3. Make Room to Move

Home office and gym in Lily at Mariposa at Blossom Rock in Apache Junction, AZ

Lily Floor Plan, Mariposa Collection, Blossom Rock Community, Apache Junction, Arizona

If you’re lucky enough to have a spacious home office, don’t trap yourself in a corner. Make sure there’s enough room to move around and stretch during your breaks (and not just head to the fridge for snacks).

Incorporating movement into your workday is crucial for both physical and mental well-being. Movement breaks can enhance productivity, and simple actions like stretching, walking around, or doing light exercises can improve circulation, reduce muscle stiffness, and boost energy levels. If you’re looking for an extra brain boost, add a treadmill or a walking pad under your desk so you can keeping moving while tackling e-mails or hopping on a call.

4. Declutter and Organize

A tidy space often helps create a tidy mind. A cluttered workspace is distracting, and spending time in chaos doesn’t leave us feeling great. Organizing your desk (and keeping it that way) will help increase your productivity and reduce stress.

Keep your workspace tidy with storage solutions like shelves, drawers, and filing cabinets to maintain control over the everyday items you need. Use cable management tools to keep wires and cables organized and out of the way. Label your cables so you know which ones belong to your equipment in case you ever need to move things around or something needs a reset.

5. Personalize the Space

Mosaic 5 Office at Brighton Crossings by Brookfield Residential in Brighton CO

Mosaic 5 Floor Plan, Mosaic Portfolio, Brighton Crossings Community, Brighton, Colorado

One of the perks of working from home is you can design the space to suit your style. You don’t have to worry about mass appeal, and you can focus on what enhances your work environment and increases your productivity.

Add personal touches like plants, artwork, or family photos to make the space more inviting and motivating. If you want a bright, creative vibe, use mood-lifting colors and patterns to spark interest and wake up the mind. For a calming space, focus on connections with nature through colors, materials, and texture.

Don’t overwhelm the space with a lot of small items. Less is more, and having a few larger pieces will help reduce clutter and keep your office organized.

6. Invest in Comfort and Wellness

If you’re spending several hours a day in the same chair, it’s worth investing in good-quality, ergonomic furniture that supports your back and promotes good posture. At the minimum, you want a chair with height adjustment, lumbar support, the ability to swivel, and casters.

Choose a desk that fits your needs. There should be enough space for your computer, any extra monitors, room to review paperwork, and the ability to accommodate any other essentials you need to work. Having enough width and depth is key to avoiding a claustrophobic workspace.

For a different approach, try a height-adjustable table or standing desk that allows you to sit or stand throughout the day, giving your back and body a much-needed break. We know that sitting for long periods of time isn’t ideal for our health, and experts recommend using a standing desk for 3 – 4 hours a day.

Home office in Chorley 36 at Midhurst Valley in Barrie ON

Chorley Floor Plan, 36' Detached Collection, Midhurst Valley Community, Barrie, Ontario

Biophilic design, or the concept of bringing the outdoors inside, is an easy and inexpensive way to create a motivating work environment infused with color and life. Add some low-maintenance, hardy houseplants to help you feel more calm and relaxed while avoiding the stress of wilted or browning foliage.

7. Sound Control

Depending on what you need to accomplish, the noise around you can be used to your advantage. Noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine are great for when you need to focus, while turning on your favorite tunes can help you stay motivated, increase productivity, and reduce anxiety.

If you like having music but find lyrics distracting, switch to acoustic tracks, like classical or symphonic, to give yourself more headspace to think.

Choose a quiet area to minimize interruptions, and consider adding soundproof elements like heavy curtains, rugs, or acoustic panels to control the noise levels further. By tailoring the auditory environment to your needs, you can create a more conducive space for both concentration and creativity.

8. Invest in Technology

Having the right technology is crucial for a productive home office. Start with the proper tools like a reliable computer and high-speed internet. Consider dual monitors or an oversized screen for increased productivity if your work involves multitasking or detailed tasks.

Incorporate smart home devices to streamline your workday. Smart light can adjust to optimal brightness levels throughout the day, reducing eye strain and enhancing focus. A smart thermostat can maintain a comfortable temperature, so you’re not distracted by being too hot or too cold. Virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant can help manage your schedule, set reminders, and even control other smart devices, allowing you to focus on your work.

Automate routine tasks to save time and increase efficiency. Use apps that sync your to-do lists across devices, set up automated backups for your work files, and utilize productivity software that tracks your time and helps manage your projects.

Home office at Horizon Four at Midtown by Brookfield Residential in Denver CO

Horizon Four Floor Plan, Horizon Townhomes Portfolio, Midtown Community, Denver, Colorado

9. Make it Inspiring

Surround yourself with elements that fuel your creativity and drive. Start with a vision board filled with images and quotes that represent your goals and aspirations. Seeing these reminders daily can keep you focused on your long-term objectives.

Incorporate motivational quotes that resonate with you. Place them where you can easily see them, such as on your desk, walls, or computer screen. These positive affirmations can uplift your spirits and provide encouragement during challenging moments.

Include items related to your passions and hobbies. Whether it’s a piece of art or souvenirs from places you’ve traveled, these personal touches can serve as a source of joy and remind you of what you love, adding a sense of fulfillment to your workday.

10. Keep it Separate

As nice as it would be to have a dedicated room for your home office where you can close the door and keep your work separate from your personal life, your floor plan may not allow for it. Convert a part of your living room, bedroom, or wherever your home allows into your workspace with room dividers. You can choose a traditional design or something like a bookshelf that can double as additional storage or display area.

Having a dedicated work zone helps establish clear boundaries between your work and personal life. This separation creates a physical and psychological distinction that signals to your brain when it’s time to work and when it’s time to relax. By minimizing interruptions and maintaining an organized, focused environment, you can enhance productivity and ensure a healthier work-life balance.

Home office in Hickling 44 at Midhurst Valley in Barrie ON

Hickling Floor Plan, 44' Detached Collection, Midhurst Valley Community, Barrie, Ontario

Designing an effective home office requires thoughtful planning and intentional choices that enhance productivity and well-being. By implementing these tips, you can transform your workspace into a motivating and efficient environment that supports your success and helps you thrive in your remote work setup.

Let us help you find your new home! Explore where we build and connect with our sales team when you’re ready to learn more. We’ll be expecting you!

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