Player |
Many of us might still be working from home well into 2022. It can be challenging to combine your living and workspace, especially in smaller spaces.
When it comes to setting up your home office, less really is more. You don’t need a lot of space to get the job done, but you need to make sure your office is organized and efficient. Here are ten ways to set up the perfect home office in your apartment space.
1. Choose a Suitable Space
When it comes to finding a place for your home office, don’t be afraid to get creative. Maybe there’s an unused corner in your living room or a spot in the hallway that could be turned into a makeshift office. The best place to set up your home office is in a quiet corner of your apartment. Ensure the area is well-lit and has ample outlets for your gadgets and devices. Try to separate your office from the main living room for privacy if possible.
Office nook at Plum Orchard Apartments
2. Get Rid of Distractions
One of the biggest challenges of working from home is staying focused. To avoid distractions, try to set up your office in a separate space from the living area. If that’s not possible, try to partition the room with some shelves or a screen. And make sure to disable notifications on your phone and computer.
3. Create Storage Space for Everything
Don’t even think about buying a traditional desk with drawers because you won’t have enough room. Instead, try using an L-shaped or wall-mounted desk so you can maximize the surface area while making use of every inch of floor space. The idea is to use every nook and cranny, so think about adding storage solutions like shelves or cabinets to hold all your files, folders, notebooks, and other necessities. You can even consider hanging a set of command hooks on the wall to keep things off your desk.
4. Maximize Lighting
One of the biggest challenges for working in small spaces is poor lighting. Your best bet is to position your desk, so your back faces a window or other source of natural light. If you don’t have a good view, make sure to keep track of overhead light and use decorative lamps for additional layers of illumination.
5. Set Up Your Office to Reflect Your Personality
One of the best things about having a home office is personalizing it however you want. Add your favorite photos, artwork, or plants to make the space feel like your own. Make sure that whatever you choose is functional and doesn’t take too much space.
Your home office should reflect your personality and interests. If you love to garden, consider using outdoor space for your office, or add some plants to a shelf above your desk. Or, if you’re into fashion, create a closet office with plenty of storage for clothes and accessories. The key is to find unused space in your apartment and make it work for you.
6. Schedule Your Daily Activities
Most people spend at least eight hours a day in their home office, which means you need to make the space-efficient and functional. The first step is to create a schedule that separates your workdays from your time; then, use that plan to set up your office with everything you need for work. This includes a desk, chair, computer, printer, phone, and other necessary tools.
7. Use Technology to Your Advantage
There are now several ways to work from home without dedicated office space, thanks to technology. If you’re tight on space, consider using a laptop instead of a desktop computer. You can also use a smartphone or tablet to take notes, make calls, and access essential files while on the go.
8. Get Organized
One of the most essential tips for working in a small home office is to stay organized. This means creating a system for filing papers, keeping track of deadlines, and maintaining a clean workspace. The more organized you are, the less stress you’ll feel and the more productive you become.
9. Invest in Ergonomic Furniture
If you’re going to be spending a lot of time in your home office, it’s essential to invest in furniture that’s comfortable and ergonomically correct. Choosing a suitable desk and chair can go a long way when staying in tune with your body and avoiding aches or pains that could affect your daily activities.
10. Make it Functional for Multiple Uses
Finally, make sure everything in your office serves more than one purpose. For example, a rolling cart could hold your supplies and double as a mobile printer. Or, if you want to make the most of your small space, opt for an office chair that can be tucked away when not in use. Above all, try to keep it simple and stress-free by choosing multi-functional furniture and accessories.
Final Thoughts:
A home office can be a great way to stay productive and organized, especially if you’re tight on space. Just make sure to use every inch of your apartment wisely and create a functional schedule that works for you. And, most importantly, enjoy your new space!
At Plum Orchard, we have apartments with a perfect office nook built-in – ready for you to set up your desk and start your day!