The Irish Mail on Sunday

HOME WORK CAN BE EASY

If you're using a makeshift office at the moment, take inspiratio­n from these ways to create a better space

- Emily Westbrooks

This morning I sat down at my makeshift work-fromhome desk and thought to myself, “This could definitely be nicer.”

Like most people, I don’t have a dedicated home office — in normal times, I work from the kitchen counter while my kids are at school. Now that my children are home from school indefinite­ly, I’ve holed up in a corner of the attic where they’re least likely to find me. In that regard, it’s ideal, but it’s otherwise a bit bleak and spare.

So I’ve set out to change that, without leaving my house. I collected images that would offer inspiratio­n for office spaces that I’d love to emulate if I was able to run out to the shops, and if budget wasn’t a concern. These workfrom-home set-ups might not be fully attainable at the moment, but there are certainly similar elements I can find around my house that will bring a little more comfort and cosiness to the spot.

First, a window. My attic corner doesn’t offer that option, but if you have a choice, choose a window spot that will give you natural light throughout the day. Then, your desk set-up. If your desk is well-used or made of a slab of board, find a tablecloth to cover it up.

Once you’ve spruced up your desk itself, it’s time to decorate your space to make it more inviting. You’ve likely got artwork around your house that’s sitting in a drawer or closet waiting to be framed. A few bits of painter’s tape or washi tape will hold it up above your desk without harming the wall. While you’re at it, collect a few photos to put on your desk and give you a mental boost throughout the day.

Finally, the work-from-home trifecta: a plant, a candle and a lamp, all of which will make your desk set-up feel more pleasant throughout the day

 ??  ?? Leaning artwork against the wall on your desk adds a temporary brightness to the space (Nest.co.uk)
Leaning artwork against the wall on your desk adds a temporary brightness to the space (Nest.co.uk)

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