OLIVER HEATH SAYS
Increasingly many of us are seeing our work and home lives blending together. Creating a dedicated home office is a great way to separate them and get a better work/life balance, while also allowing you to close the door for privacy and concentration.
It’s important to have a healthy, happy and productive space to work in. A height-adjustable chair with arms, and a sit/stand desk will keep you moving and ergonomically well catered for, while a range of storage options will ensure the space is functional, clean and tidy. Include easy-to-reach shelves or desk tidies for items you use all the time, and long-term storage such as a cupboard or filing cabinets.
Turning appliances off at night or when not in use is the best way to prevent energy wastage, while fitting a thermostatic radiator valve will allow you to keep the space at a comfortable temperature.
When it comes to improving productivity and creativity there are some simple, easy wins. Bring in more natural light by keeping windows clear of obstructions and bouncing light around the room with reflective surfaces. Natural and high levels of light will help improve mental energy and even aid sleep at night.
Use paint, wallpaper or styling items to inject shots of colour in energising hues of yellow, green, orange or red into the space, making it a fun and lively place to work in.
Studies have shown that views of greenery, even in your peripheral vision, can help you feel rested and rejuvenated, allowing you to focus for longer, so it’s a good idea to position your desk with a view through a window. If the outdoor scene doesn’t include foliage, position some plants around the room. They’ll also improve air quality and remove carbon dioxide, which can affect mental energy.