Tips for a Better Home Office Layout and Design
Whether you are converting a corner of your bedroom or attic into a home office or have a separate room exclusively for it, you should set up the best layout and design for maximum efficiency. The goal is to keep all the equipment and furniture in the home office without it getting too cramped and cluttered.
Here are some points to remember to create a good layout and design for your home office.
Do not place your computer so that the monitor is facing the window. The glare will hurt your eyes.
To make the room appear larger than it is, position the biggest (or tallest) furniture farthest from the door or entry.
Position your computer desk and another desk for writing either back-to-back with about 2 feet in between or in a ‘L’ shaped formation, that way you will only use a single chair when going starting with one task then onto the next.
As much as possible, use natural light when working in the daytime to save on electricity. When it gets dark, use fluorescent overhead lighting or a lamp properly illuminates your whole desk.
If your job requires the use of a drawing or drafting table, there ought to be a window to its left in case you are right-handed or the right, in case you are left-handed Tips for effective office. This is to minimize shadows on your work.
Get storage cabinets (either inherent on your work desk or wall-mounted) and filing cabinets to keep books, manuals, documents, and additional office supplies. Cabinets keep these items accessible yet not in the way of your work.
Make sure your home office has a window to let the air in and circulate or if this is not possible, at least have air conditioning in the room.
Sort ropes and wires and bundle them. The back of work stations and office cabinets are good spots to hide unattractive wires.
If you are fed up with ropes and wires and need to be mobile around the home office or outside of it, get a cordless phone and a laptop.
Place a good old blackboard or corkboard where you can see them well. Write down or post notes there so you would not have to forget anything.
Place real plants in your home office. You will be surprised how fresh oxygen can lessen the stress of working all day.
Get ergonomic office chairs and tables to reduce pain and prevent injury that may stem from sitting on your bum for hours. You know you have a good chair and table when the top of your monitor is below or at your eye level and your feet are planted immovably on the floor. A chair that is reclined a little is best to lessen the pressure on the spine, subsequently minimizing lower back pain.
