How to design a functional home office

How to design a functional home office: storage, setup and style

With working from home quickly becoming the new norm, it's vital to have a dedicated space where you can work comfortably. Sometimes, though, our home offices become more of a basic video-call backdrop than a thoughtfully designed workspace.

Whether you work in a creative industry or you're a data scientist, the right working environment could boost your productivity. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best ways to create a functional space with the right home office storage, furniture and design.

Think about natural light

Even though lighting might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of a ‘functional’ space, it shouldn't be underestimated. Natural sunlight helps to energise us throughout the day, keeping our natural circadian rhythm in sync.

As well as keeping your vitamin D levels high, natural lighting could also help you to save money on energy bills. Reducing your need to rely on artificial lighting, especially during summer, could bring more benefits than you'd expect. With up to 40% of us working from home at some point during the week, it's important to try to do so sustainably.

Utilise smart storage

Unsightly clutter not only gets in the way but also provides a distraction. To avoid falling into creative block, keeping your belongings neatly stowed away could be effective.

At Hammonds, we think that choosing the right storage for your home office can help to define the space and determine your productivity. Smart office storage solutions could aid in keeping the mess at bay – and give you easy access to the essentials, too. Our bespoke fitted home office storage could provide a seamless, hassle-free approach to cutting out the clutter.

Choose ergonomic furniture

As much as that chair that you’ve seen online might look the part, you might want to rethink your setup if you’re craning your neck to see the computer screen. To keep your health and well-being in check, it's important to choose high-quality, ergonomic furniture.

The point of ergonomic design is to encourage a healthy, pain-free posture while you work. Ergonomic office chairs are designed to protect your back but there are several more ways to make your setup as kind to your body as possible.

Look for ergonomic peripherals, including the mouse and keyboard, along with a height-adjustable desk. If you have the space, smart furniture and ergonomic home office storage ideas could transform your working experience.

Go natural

Nature is soothing. Adding natural elements to your workspace could make a significant difference to your energy levels and lift your mood throughout the working day. From plants to organic textures like wood or jute, even a hint of nature could help you to get through the day.

If you can't squeeze any natural addition into your home office space, it's absolutely crucial to spend some time outside during the working day.

In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, research has proven that spending time outdoors helps us to manage stress and boost our mental health – so, whether it's a succulent or a quick stroll around the park, make sure that you get your daily dose of greenery.

Make it personal

Just because you want your home office to be functional, it doesn't mean that it has to be bland. To help to keep you feeling motivated, why not try some funky prints or personal items?

Whether you keep your spirits high with your favourite artworks or a photo of your pet, a simple accessory could be quite a profound addition. While it's important not to go overboard on home office decoration, it's easy to incorporate personal touches in a subtle way.

Transform your home office storage with Hammonds

As more people work remotely, modern home office design in the UK is becoming fine-tuned to individual tastes and personalities. Staying true to your own style is important but you shouldn't underestimate the difference that a tidy, minimalist environment could make.

Book a free design visit today to discuss your home office ideas with our experts, who can help you to create a personal, functional and productive home office space.