A home office is a popular addition to any home as it allows you to handle your personal affairs and keep things organized. However, since the start of the global pandemic, many people have been forced to work from home. At the time, options may have been limited to create the perfect workspace. But, it’s now possible to get everything you need to create a fantastic home office.
Although the pandemic appears to be winding down, many people are choosing to continue working from home. If you’re going to work from home then you’re going to need this guide:
Adjustable Desk
The first thing you’ll need to invest in is a good adjustable desk. This will allow you to sit or stand at your desk, depending on what you are doing. Adjustable desks have been shown to be beneficial for health without forcing you to stand all day.
You need to have your elbows level with the desk, make sure your adjustable desk can do this for you.
Ergonomic Chair
When you’re sitting at your desk you’ll need an ergonomic chair. This will encourage you to adopt the right posture and help to prevent aches and pains. There are plenty of options on the market but it is recommended you try them before you buy. This will ensure it fits you perfectly.
Electronic Equipment
You’ll need a laptop or desktop computer but you probably already have one of these along with a printer. While that covers the basic equipment needs you’ll also need a variety of other items such as booklet makers, a shredder, and even a power strip. After all, it’s unlikely that you have enough power sockets in your office already.
Even if you do, a surge power strip will help to protect your computer and other equipment from power surges that could accidentally destroy them.
It’s also a good idea to invest in a UPS system. This will allow you to run for a short time after a power outage and shut down in a controlled manner.
Internet
You probably already have the internet but it is important to remember how important this is if you want to work from home in your office. The faster the internet the better as slow internet can be a real pain on Zoom calls.
You also need to consider the size of the files you’ll be sending as email attachments probably won’t work. Fast internet coupled with the cloud is the best approach.
Noise Cancelling Headphones
Whether you’re on a call or simply want some peace to get on with your work, you’ll find noise-cancelling headphones are one of the best investments you can make. Unless you are very lucky you’ll quickly realize that working from home comes with a series of distractions, noise-cancelling headphones can allow you to focus on what matters.
Coffee Station
The coffee station doesn’t need to be in the office although your decision as to where to put it will depend on the space available in your office and how close it is to your kitchen. Regardless of where you decide to put it, you’re going to need a coffee station that will allow you to make your favourite drink in seconds while working.
You may want to consider having a mug warmer as well to keep your coffee warm as you type.
Lighting
You need to look at the lighting in your office. On the one hand, you need to have bright lights that illuminate all the work surfaces and any bookcases/filing cabinets you have. On the other hand, this can sometimes be too much and you may prefer to have a desk lamp that just illuminates your keyboard.
Recessed lighting can be a good option in the office but you will need an electrician to install it for you.
Personal Effects
If you’re creating a home office then your focus will be on work. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t make the space personal. Add a plant or two along with a couple of your favourite pictures. It will make the space seem more homely and this can help with focus and productivity.
