FOR IDEAS HOME OFFICES
With working from home the ‘new normal’, have your workspace fit for purpose in no time with our round-up of easy updates, quick fixes and clever buys
1 DOUBLE-UP DESKS IN A SHARED SPACE
Work out a desk arrangement that uses space most efficiently if you’re sharing an office, either side-by-side or desks positioned back-to-back are best. And invest in extra storage so there’s plenty for both of you, to ensure desks stay clear.
2 STACK UP STORAGE
Open-sided crates make it easier to get your hands on any essentials inside. This metal crate comes in a choice of pretty colours and can be arranged in a mini stack under a desk or as a taller freestanding one.
3 UTILISE A KITCHEN WORKTOP
Supplement desk space if you have several people working from home at the same time. An empty run of worktop or a breakfast bar in the kitchen makes a great family hub.
4 SQUEEZE A DESK INTO AN ALCOVE
Make use of empty alcoves or awkward areas if you’re needing to set up a desk in a bedroom or living area. A narrow, floating desk won’t protrude into the room too much and is ideal for laptop work.
5 TAKE OVER A CORNER
Carve out some extra office space by making use of an out-of-theway corner. Go for an L-shaped or triangular desk to utilise every inch, or invest in a modular system that you can tailor to fit.
6 STAY SERENE WITH GREEN
Bringing greenery into an office environment helps evoke a sense of calm and can stimulate creativity, too. Try painting walls a soothing shade of green or, for a quick fix, fill a shelf with plants.
7 ORGANISE TECH
Keep your phone, tablet and e-reader charging in one handy place and without having tangled cables cluttering up your desk. This one has enough space for up to six devices.
8 COORDINATE THE DECOR
Don’t make do with an uninspiring outlook, give your work area a quick overhaul with a fresh colour on the walls or a pretty wallpaper and blind. Keep to subtle prints and soft, soothing shades for a calm, collected feel.