Working from home isn’t just for entrepreneurs anymore. More people are working remotely, either part-time or full-time. For women, especially those with children, having a home office allows them the flexibility they need to balance their work and home life.
You’ll want to keep some essentials in mind while designing a home office. Whether you spend the full workweek in it or just a few hours, it needs to be comfortable and inviting and allow you to maximize your efficiency.
If you are lucky enough to have space for a dedicated home office, setting it up just how you like will have big rewards. Your own space can make you more efficient, inspire creativity, and allow you the flexibility you need.
Here are the six best home office ideas for women:
Idea #1: Your Desk and Chair
Choosing a suitable desk and chair might be your most important decision when designing your home office. The desk is usually the focal point of a home office, so selecting one that appeals to your sense of style is a must. But it’s also vital to select a functional desk, too.
Make sure to pick one wide enough for your computer and whatever other items you need in your immediate workspace. If possible, consider an adjustable desk that allows you to stand some of the time. Invest in the best quality chair you can afford. Your back, neck and shoulders will thank you later.
Idea #2: Storage and Shelving
It’s easy to overlook storage when designing your home office, but it’s an essential component of a functional office. Not having adequate storage can affect your productivity in a big way. You’ll need to examine your typical workflow and ensure you have enough shelving and storage options.
If your budget allows for built-in bookshelves, they are a great option. These can be a great way to take advantage of as much space as possible in the room while allowing you to free up as much desk space as you can.
Idea #3: Focus on the Lighting
Proper lighting is essential in any workspace. If your office doesn’t get a lot of natural light, you’ll want to add fixtures, especially task lighting. Desk and floor lamps are common choices for home offices. If your space is on the smaller side, you may consider wall sconces, freeing up that desk and floor space.
Another important consideration in a home office is the light colour you choose. White or cool light can help improve productivity by increasing alertness. Yellow light, on the other hand, can make you tired and sluggish, leading to less productive days.
Idea #4: Comfortable Furniture
Not only does the addition of a sofa or a cozy chair or two provide seating for potential customers or clients that may come into your office, but it also gives you the option to move back and forth between your desk and a lounging space if you occasionally feel the need for a change of scenery.
An oversized chair can become a cozy reading nook if your job requires a lot of reading. Or perhaps you’re just used to a more relaxed way of working. A small sofa and versatile c-table might be ideal additions to your space.
Idea #5: Window Treatments
Often overlooked when designing a home office, blinds are an essential component in the creation of the ideal workspace. Windows can become a focal point in a room, and blinds must be functional and decorative.
Does your office get a lot of sunlight? While natural light is lovely in a home office, it may shine in your eyes or create an annoying glare on your computer screen. Putting up blinds will allow you to control the amount of light coming in at any time.
Blinds can also provide insulation as an additional barrier during cold weather. There are many choices for window treatments, like Roman shades, Venetian blinds, wooden blinds, and cellular shades.
So whether your decorating style is formal or casual, bold or chic, you will find just the right window treatment for your home office.
Idea #6: Personalize Your Space
One of the best parts about working from home is that you make all the decisions regarding the look and feel of your workspace. When designing your space, consider what you find inspiring and what components you can include to ensure you love the area you work in.
To keep a professional appearance, you won’t want to clutter the space up. Still, a few personalized touches will never hurt. Inspiring artwork or a motivational quote on the wall are both great options. You can make a bold statement by putting up a stunning accent wall of floral wallpaper.
Or add coziness with a few decorative pillows and a throw blanket. Use a funky mug to hold pens on your desk or a few beautiful woven baskets as your in and out boxes.
