5 tips for designing a better home office

In 2020, many employees found themselves working from home, often in makeshift spaces like the dining table that was never intended for such extended use. A properly designed home office can keep you energized, engaged, and above all, working comfortably.

As companies are now shifting to long-term work from home arrangements, we are sharing our top 5 tips to creating a home office that you will love: 

1. Bring in the natural light

   Exposure to daylight has been linked to improvements in our wellbeing and mood. Natural lighting causes our brains to produce serotonin, a hormone that can improve mood, provide energy and make us feel happy and well-rested. Sunlight also produces endorphins, otherwise known as the “feel-good hormone.” A recent study found that workplaces with natural light experience 3%-40% improvements in productivity.
   
   

2. Add a touch of green
   

   Plants can help make a space feel warm and welcoming while adding a dash of color to the room. Research has shown that have a few plants in a space can boost creativity and productivity by as much as 15%. Plants also have the effect of relaxing people, reducing the feeling of stress that comes from your workday.
   
   

3. Allow for a mixture of postures
   

   If you've been working from home, you'll know that your favorite couch probably isn't the most comfortable after a few hours. Sitting, nor standing, for extended periods is good for you. To keep your body as healthy and comfortable as possible, allow for a mixture of postures throughout the day. Consider furniture like height-adjustable tables to allow you to go from sitting to stand in a moment. 
   
   

4. Show your personality
   

   If you think about your favorite space in your home, it's typically one that is meaningful to you on a personal level. Research has found that people are more productive when they're in a state of joy, a feeling brought on by an emotional connection to their space. Display your trinkets, bring in some color or put up your favorite photos - make your space yours. 
   
   

5. Invest in ergonomic furniture
   

   Your mid-century wooden dining chairs may be beautiful but you were never meant to be sitting in them for a full workday. Choose an office chair that has the adjustments to fine-tune the chair to your body, and the ergonomic support for the way your body moves throughout the day. A great ergonomic office chair should leave you feeling fresh even after a full day of sitting.

Need help planning your space? Chat with our experts or send us an email at hello@kneadfurniture.com.,