Working from home is an amazing opportunity because it allows you true comfort and efficiency, but working from home also has its downfalls. If your home office isn’t effectively separated from the rest of your home or if it’s too laid back, you may be falling short of your optimal productivity levels.

By creating the proper home office environment, including office furniture, lighting, and other crucial factors, you can be a productive member of the workforce from the comforts of your own home.

Keep reading for tips and tricks in designing the ideal home office.

Choosing the Proper Computer Desk

Your work is one of the most commonly used pieces of furniture in a home office setting. Since there are so many options to choose from, chances are you choose the quickest and most convenient option versus doing thorough research before buying.

Function

There are many factors to consider when choosing a work desk. First, think about the driving functions of the desk. You may need space for a laptop or a keyboard and mouse to connect to a desktop computer as well as other office equipment. You may need additional working space for paperwork, filing, supplies or other items relating to your work.

Second, think about the flexibility of your desk.  You may want an Sit to Stand desk or an articulating keyboard tray.  You may need a modular desk with options for multifunction use or for multiple people.

Room Size

Another important detail to consider is space limitations and desk size. The size of your home office will drive how big of a desk you can comfortably fit in the space. Too big of a desk can clutter the room and eat up space that could be used for a storage cabinet. On the other hand, too small of a desk can impact your productivity.

Before purchasing a desk, take careful measurements of the room, taking into account the placement of the door(s) and any windows. You may also benefit from laying out other pieces of furniture that need to fit into the home office to ensure you’re leaving enough room for everything your home office requires.

Ergonomics

The desk you choose needs to be comfortable to sit at. There should be plenty of clearance for your legs as well as your chair. The desk should also be at a height in which the keyboard and mouse are at a comfortable level.

A bad ergonomics layout can not only impact your productivity; you increase your risk of workplace-related conditions like neck and lower back pain, carpal tunnel, and even eye strain.

Seating

Have you ever sat a desk for hours on end in an uncomfortable chair? A common mistake that many home office users make is not having the right chair at their desk. The ideal chair is one that is comfortable and supportive.

Unsure of how to determine which office chair is best for you? Here’s what you need to know about this important piece of office furniture.

Lumbar Support

One of the biggest issues that home office workers experience is lower back pain. This happens when you sit too long in one position or when your chair isn’t designed to provide lower back support. An ergonomic office chair should will offer lumbar support as well as proper support for your entire body. This helps to prevent back strain, pain, and overall tension in your back, shoulders and arms.

Adjustability

It’s standard for office chairs to have height and arm adjustments, but there are other adjustments you’ll also want to have. Some of the top office chairs offer more than 10 different adjustments, including:

• Height adjustment
• Arm height and width adjustment
• Seat back height and angle
• Lumbar support and tension control

The more adjustments available on the chair, the more control you have over your comfort and support. Since you likely sit for hours on end, it’s important to have full control over your chair to ensure maximum comfort and support.

Movement Options

To get the most out of your office chair, movement is important. You, of course, want a chair with a wheelbase that allows you to easily move as needed. The flooring in your home office may drive the type of wheels that are required. For instance, if your home office is carpeted, you’ll need wheels that are designed to roll on this surface or a chair mat suited for your flooring may be required.

You also want an office chair with a swivel base. This allows you to have access to all parts of your desk. Swivel also help to reduce arm fatigue, which can happen from over-extension.

Office Storage

While you’ll most often use your computer desk and chair, chances are you’ll need a place to store your important paperwork, and more.

As with choosing a desk, room spacing is a driving factor in determining which storage and filing equipment are most suitable. Unless you have a huge home office, you may not have the room for a full-size 4 or 5-drawer filing cabinet. To maximize the available space, consider storage cabinets that are designed to fit under your desk. This allows you to use space that would otherwise go untouched.

When choosing office storage equipment, you also want to consider security. If you’re storing confidential or sensitive information, it’s safest to buy a storage unit that can be locked. You may also want to think about physical security in the event of a natural disaster. There are filing cabinets that are fireproof to protect your documents from heat and fire exposure.

Other Worthy Considerations

While office furniture is some of the most important equipment that you’ll need in your home office, there are other considerations to consider to ensure that your home office is designed as perfectly as possible.

Lighting

Lighting is important for computer and paper-based work. Improper lighting can cause all sorts of eye issues, including strain and over-exposure. Taking care of your eyes starts with proper lighting, no matter if you’re working day or night.

For your home office, it’s best to embrace natural lighting. Of course, if your home office happens to be in your basement or a room with minimal windows, you can improvise with a desk lamp, a standing lamp, or overhead recessed lighting.

Use the Walls

Maximize the space you do have by putting the walls to good use. Hang shelves where you can set books and binders. Make use of the vertical space you have available with tall storage options such as bookshelves and file cabinets.

Of course, don’t forget to accessorize your walls. A large mirror or clock, or a corkboard to post notes and reminders would be great for turning your home office into a functional space.

Your home office needs to be functional, but it also needs to be a place where you enjoy spending time. Turn this space into your own by adding fun wall accessories, such as a mirror favorite photographs or artwork picture, along with a wall paint color that makes you feel energized and focused.

Your Source for Office Furniture

There are all sorts of details that go into designing the perfect home office. While you don’t want to cut corners on quality or comfort, you also don’t want to spend thousands of dollars. The good news is that discount office furniture is available from Office Furniture Expo in Atlanta providing both new and gently used office furniture.

Are you ready to tackle your home office renovation project? If so, be sure to see us online at iloveofficefurniture.com or visit our 100,000 sq. ft. office furniture outlet in Atlanta to see our selection in person.

To schedule a free consultation, call our team at (770) 455-0440. We look forward to turning your home office into a space of pure productivity and success!