The future is hybrid
Furniture factors to consider when combining home and office working
With the government’s ‘work from home’ guidance having been lifted for what everyone hopes will be the last time, the way is clear for everyone to return to their office.
However, there is a consensus that things are unlikely ever to return to the pre-March 2020 situation and that hybrid working might be the rule: a mix of home and office-based work where employees benefit from reduced commuting time but keep the practical and social benefits of working alongside colleagues.
In which case, explains Sara Haggas of Skipton-based Hartleys Furniture, a home working space as efficient as that found in a purpose-built office is a must to maintain comfort and productivity.
She suggests five factors to consider in creating a home office as functional and comfortable – if not more so – than the one in which you once worked every day. Ergonomic and functional
“When your home becomes your workplace, adaptations need to be made to ensure you are safe and comfortable,” says Sara.
Pay particular attention to chairs and to desk heights – note that a desk usually needs to be higher than a kitchen table – and if using a laptop, consider investing in a riser and separate keyboard.
Make workstations work
Look upon your working area as an extension of the office, rather than part of the home. “Remember that your work space at home is for work purposes only, so treat it as you would your desk in the office,” says Sara.
Keep it tidy, provide sufficient storage space and this will help with productivity.
Set the schedule
Switching back and forth between work location can make it difficult to keep track of what needs to be done and lead to time wasting.
“To ensure objectives are met, make a weekly schedule based around where you will be working each day,” says Sara. “Look at tasks you need to achieve that week and work out which would be more effectively done from each location.”
Get organised
To make best use of your working time, have everything ready for when you need it. Ensure all equipment is fully charged, frequently-used files (whether electronic or physical) are easily accessible and help get the day off to a productive start.
A smooth finish
In a hybrid working situation, ending one day in a way that prepares you for the start of the next becomes very important.
“Seek ways of simplifying your end of day routine and re-evaluate what you need for each location,” says Sara.
“Have a bag ready to pack with what you need for next day, allowing a quick and easy departure.”
Hartleys is an expert in designing and building bespoke home office space, tailored to your precise requirements, creating a comfortable and productive working environment.
To book a home visit by a design team member, telephone 01756 700471 or go to www.hartleysbedrooms.co.uk
When your home becomes your workplace, adaptations need to be made…