Working from home offers many benefits: no travel costs, being closer to family, and not having to get dressed for work are just some of them. On the flip side, when working at home you are responsible for your own motivation. It is up to you to make sure that you are working at full speed and your mind doesn’t wander. One of the ways you can ensure that your productivity remains high is by designing your home workspace to maximize your potential.

Nobody likes to sit in a drab, dreary environment. At the same time a cluttered, noisy space isn’t ideal either. Here are some tips to turn your home office from a distracting monstrosity to a sleek, smooth running machine.

1) De-clutter

Mess can be overwhelming. If you are going into your office in the morning and being greeted by piles and piles of papers then something is going wrong. Having your workload organised and tidied away will help you find things you are looking for more easily and manage your workflow more efficiently.

2) Plants

A dreary office is soul destroying. Buying a leafy plant will not only brighten up place but will freshen up the air. Fresh air will not only improve your concentration but will also improve your health.

3) Lighting

Inadequate lighting can cause long term health conditions such as eye strain. When it comes to lighting, natural light is always best. Large windows are a must. Declutter your window sills and position your desk so it gets as much light throughout the day as possible. If you have to use artificial lights then make sure they are set at a comfortable level.

4) Ergonomic furniture

You will not be able to concentrate if you are sat uncomfortably. Unsuitable furniture will not just make you uncomfortable. It can lead to health complications further down the road such as lower back pain or carpal tunnel.
Investing in an ergonomic chair is a must. Sitting comfortably will improve your productivity.

5) Volume

Complete silence can be as difficult to work in as a loud noise. Making sure the noise levels in your home office are at a comfortable level is key. Turn down distracting loud noises and if the office is too quiet, add some background noise by using a fan or air conditioning unit.

This piece was written by Mark Enright, an interior design enthusiast and writer for The Poles Company, suppliers of a wide range of curtain poles to individuals across the UK.