Now that more people are starting businesses at home and working remotely, home office space is something many buyers are looking for. Working remotely offers many advantages, including reduced overhead costs, lack of commute and more hours in the working day. However, before you set up your workspace, there are several things you need to consider. How much space do you need, for example, and what will you be using it for?
Whether you’re moving house to accommodate a new business idea or you’ve grown tired of working from your couch, here are three tips to help you create the ideal workspace for your new home.
Lighting Is Everything
According to studies from the International Well Building Institute, the lighting in your workspace could mean the difference between productivity and procrastination at work. First things first, you should always maximize the natural light to improve your performance and health, so try to face your desk near a window or patio door. Relying on natural light will also help to reduce energy costs. When you’re looking for a home, opt for spaces with glass partitions, reflective surfaces and skylights to increase sunlight exposure.
If you’re not able to increase the natural night in your workspace, you can work with a good desk lamp to keep you focused instead. You’re more likely to feel sleepy and unproductive in dark spaces, so always keep your desk well lit – especially if you’re going to be working at night. YLighting offers a stunning collection, which includes a modern desk lamp to brighten your space, as well as various floor lamps and overhead features from notable designers Koncept Lighting and Anglepoise.
Knowing Your Space
You’ll need to know the square footage of your home office before you’re able to buy furniture, so hold off until you’ve finalized your move, and be sure to measure up. There will obviously be limits on what you can fit into your office according to the space you have available. If you’re planning on working with an employee or business partner, you will need a desk that can accommodate two people or separate workstations. There are numerous space-saving desk options on the market, just be sure you’re not compromising on workspace when you make your purchase – remember that computers, files and other office essentials will take up most of your surface space.
Choosing Furniture
When it comes to choosing office seating, there are certain mistakes you want to avoid. For a start, you should always opt for seating with proper back support and armrests; the best chairs will also offer adjustable lumbar support for your lower back. This feature is important for preventing back strain that can worsen and become sciatica, a debilitating condition that affects many office workers in the U.S.
You should also make sure you’re able to keep your feet flat on the floor when you’re working, and that your elbows can easily bend at a 90-degree angle when using your computer. The trendy chairs you see on Pinterest may look great, but they won’t necessarily support your posture after a few hours at your desk.
