If there’s anything 2020 has taught us, it’s that the world is changing and in the years to come, remote working will become increasingly normal. Many of us have spent a good portion of 2020 working from home, with our children having to be home schooled in the process. This presents a need for a home office that is best suited for the entire family.
Here’s what you need to consider to set up a home office for the whole family:
1. Consider your occupation as well as your family’s needs
Before you decide on setting up a home office for you and your family, you need to think about your occupation. What you do for a living will determine how much space you need and the type of furniture you need to buy. For example, if you’re an architect you may need space to draw out designs, if you own an e-commerce store you may need space to pack and label your items as well as storage space etc. Think about the space and equipment needed for you to work from home successfully.
You also need to consider what your family will need from a home office in terms of their occupations as well as schooling requirements. Accessibility is also important to think about. If you live with elderly or disabled people, the space has to be accessible to them as well. You should also consider child proofing your home office if you have young kids.
2. Buy the required furniture
Next up, you have to buy the necessary furniture. If you have children, you may want to consider buying smaller tables and chairs for them.
In terms of accessibility, you’ll have to think about buying chairs and tables that elderly and disabled people can use easily.
You also have to think about how you can make the most out of your space by buying multi-functional furniture.
3. Add pops of colour
It’s a home office, not a funeral home, so make sure you add some life into your space with a few pops of colour. Certain colours are scientifically proven to improve your mood. Opt for a blue rug, some colourful throw pillows, a yellow stationery holder — bright and fun colours that’ll make your space feel warm and inviting.
4. Lighting is everything
Lighting is key for creating a productive home office environment. A dimly lit space will make it difficult to concentrate and work, so make sure your home office has great artificial lighting and if possible, is also situated in an area of the house with natural lighting too.
5. Minimalism is a good choice
The less stuff you have in your home office, the better. Clutter not only makes it difficult to get around a space, but it also makes it difficult to think clearly. Give away any items you don’t use and find storage space for frequently used items.
Remember, a clearer space equals a clearer mind.
6. Add some wall art and inspirational quotes
Home offices don’t have to be boring. Get creative and hang up some beautiful wall art as well as inspirational quotes. This will make the space homier, making it a stimulating environment for the entire family to work in.
Take all these tips into account to create a great home office that meets your family's needs.