7 Ways to Spice Up Your Work-From-Home Environment

According to WFH Research, nearly 13% of full-time employees work from home and 28% work in a hybrid model. Research by Owl Labs reveals that a staggering 74% of employees report feeling happier when they work remotely, and 64% feel more productive when working remotely. Given these statistics, working from home should give you a sense that you are optimizing both your happiness and productivity. If you aren’t fully realizing these benefits, perhaps your home office isn’t yet conducive to the full remote work experience.

Here, we suggest 7 ways to spice up your work-from-home environment. Who knows…. tackling this list could be your project to scare away the winter blues!

1. Improve your lighting

Creating a well-lit environment is essential for productivity and overall well-being in your home office. First, leverage natural light by positioning your desk near a window, allowing sufficient daylight to flood your workspace. For focused tasks like reading or detailed work, invest in task lighting with adjustable brightness. Consider a desk lamp with LED bulbs, offering customizable light intensity to match your needs. When engaging in virtual meetings or video calls, ensure your face is well-lit to project a professional appearance. A combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting can help create a dynamic lighting setup, allowing you to adapt to various work scenarios throughout the day. Experiment with different light sources at different heights and intensities to strike the right balance, promoting comfort and enhancing your work-from-home experience.

2. Make sure your desk and chair are ergonomically correct

Creating an ergonomically sound workspace is crucial for comfort today and your correct spinal alignment tomorrow. Start by adjusting your chair to support the natural curve of your spine, promoting good back posture. Your feet should rest flat on the floor, and your knees should form a 90-degree angle. Position your computer monitor at eye level to prevent strain on your neck—consider using a laptop stand if necessary. Maintain a relaxed yet attentive posture, ensuring your elbows form a 90-degree angle when typing. Incorporating these adjustments into your workstation also promotes better productivity.

Learn more about work-life balance and workplace flexibility in 5 Priorities Employees Care About Most in 2023.

3. Elevate mood with thoughtful wall and accent colors

Harness the power of color to create a work-from-home environment that aligns with your desired mood and productivity levels. Consider your work tasks and preferences when selecting wall and accent colors. Blues and greens promote a calm and focused atmosphere, ideal for tasks requiring concentration. If creativity is your goal, warmer tones like yellows and oranges can stimulate inspiration. For a touch of sophistication, neutrals like soft grays or muted tones can create a timeless and elegant backdrop. Balance bold accent colors strategically, incorporating them in artwork, furnishings, or decor to add personality without overwhelming the space. By choosing colors thoughtfully, you can design a workspace that not only reflects your style but enhances the desired feelings you want to be your most productive and happy self while you work.

Mental health is very important for employees and employers. Learn more about it in Managing Employees’ Mental Health: What Employers Can Do to Help.

4. Invest in functional and beautiful furniture and storage solutions

Opt for a desk that not only speaks to your sense of style, but also offers ample workspace and ergonomic features. Consider multifunctional furniture pieces, such as a stylish storage ottoman or a desk with built-in shelves, to maximize space efficiency. Choose storage solutions that keep your workspace organized, such as filing cabinets, floating shelves, or decorative baskets. Striking a balance between aesthetics and utility ensures that your home office remains both visually appealing and conducive to productivity. With carefully selected furniture and storage options, you can curate a workspace that improves the overall ambiance of your home office.

5. Incorporate plants into your office design

The presence of greenery can improve air quality, reduce stress, and boost overall well-being. Choose low-maintenance indoor plants such as succulents, snake plants, or pothos to introduce a touch of nature without demanding too much attention. Position plants strategically around your workspace, placing them on your desk, shelves, or in hanging planters to maximize floor space. Experiment with different plant types and arrangements to find a balance that complements your office design and fosters a more pleasant and productive work environment.

6. Solve the cord chaos

A clutter of cords can turn your work haven into a chaotic space. Invest in cable organizers or clips to keep your cords neatly bundled together. Consider using cable sleeves that discreetly conceal wires and create a streamlined look. If possible, opt for wireless devices to reduce cable clutter altogether. For power strips and charging stations, choose organizers with designated compartments to house each device neatly. Velcro ties or zip ties can be handy for securing and bundling cords behind your desk. Embracing these cord management solutions enhances your workspace's aesthetics and contributes to a more organized and efficient work environment.

7. Add décor accents and an area rug

Personalize your workspace with items such as framed art, decorative vases, or inspirational quotes that resonate with your style and motivation. Consider adding a pop of color through vibrant throw pillows or a cozy blanket draped over your chair. A stylish area rug not only defines your workspace but also adds warmth and comfort underfoot. Experiment with textures and patterns that complement your overall design theme. By thoughtfully integrating these decor accents and a well-chosen area rug, you can elevate the visual appeal of your home office and your mood every time you step into it.

Your home office isn’t the only thing that’s colorful. Find out more about what makes a great corporate culture in Does Your Company Have These 5 Elements of a Great Corporate Culture?.

When ergonomic design, thoughtful lighting, decor accents, and personal touches converge, your home office environment becomes a source of inspiration and focus. Crafting a space you love is an investment in your well-being, ensuring that each workday is not just efficient but also enjoyable. In the harmonious blend of form and function, your home office becomes a sanctuary where work can meet pleasure, improving both your professional and personal experiences in your home.

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