Have you ever tried getting any work done in
your living room? It's a little difficult with a TV staring at you in
the face, luring you into watching your favorite programs or movies. And
don't think you can get your work done with the TV on in the
background, because that never works either. How about working in your
bedroom? It's probably not a good idea to try and accomplish anything
that makes you feel tired with your bed in close proximity. The kitchen
probably doesn't have enough workspace, and although the dining room
table might work, some people aren't fond of working where they eat,
especially if their work can get a little messy. If you are looking for a
place in your home where you can be the most productive and get the
most work done, then it's time to set up a home office.
Workspace
A desk is the most common piece of furniture that defines a specific
area in your home as an office space. When shopping for a desk for your
home office, think about the type of work you wish to complete at home,
and the budget you have to work with. If you are using your home office
as your primary workspace for a home business, it wouldn't hurt to
splurge a bit on a double pedestal desk made of mahogany. If you are an
architect, you would probably require a specific desk suited for your
trade, like a standing desk or architect's desk. Some desks come with
almost everything needed for a home office setup including a chair,
shelves, computer and monitor space, drawers and a storage cabinet.
Your office chair is arguably the most important piece of furniture
in your home office. The type of desk you decide on will determine the
type of chair you use for your home office. If you prefer a stool over a
rolling chair, make sure you have enough clearance space and that
you're not seated too high above your workspace. Select a chair that is
comfortable with adequate support to reduce any strain on your back.
Don't be afraid to splurge on your home office chair, it can be the
determining factor of how much time you enjoy spending in your home
office.
It is important that your workspace not only provide you with
adequate function for your work, it also needs to be comfortable. Think
of your workspace as your command center, a cockpit and your throne.
Unlike an office space outside of the home, your home office is where
you reign and have complete control. Furnish your working area however
you see fit.
Storage
Shelves, closets, filing cabinets and drawers are storage options you
need to consider when setting up your home office. Will your desk come
with built-in storage space, or do you need to buy a separate piece of
furniture for your storage needs? Like your workspace, the primary
function of your home office will determine what type of storage you'll
need. If you are using your home office for your own business, you might
need more storage space than a home office used for paying bills and
keeping home records. Plastic storage bins and moving boxes may
substitute a storage unit, but it would be wise to invest in a filing
cabinet for organizational purposes.
Equipment
The next thing to look into when setting up your home office is the
equipment you'll need to get your work done. Most home offices will
require a telephone, fax machine, waste basket, printer and computer. If
you plan on doing a lot of work that requires frequent internet use,
get a high speed internet connection. If you expect to receive numerous
phone calls throughout the day, it wouldn't hurt to get a second phone
line along with a fax switch for easier use of your fax machine. Some
people may want to substitute a laptop for a home computer if they feel
limited on space. Don't forget to purchase any specific equipment
necessary to perform your job functions if you plan on working from
home.
Lighting
Proper lighting is important for reducing eye strain and headaches,
while providing a comfortable workspace. A well-lit room can also keep
you from falling asleep, and help you stay energized and invigorated
while working from home. While the room you are using for your home
office may already have light fixtures, don't be afraid to add a desk
lamp or other forms of task lighting to increase work visibility.
Accessories
Certain job functions will require specific accessories for your home
office. Some home offices may require a marker board or map of the
world on the wall. Other home offices might need more than one computer
monitor, especially if you run an online business. Aside from work
related accessories, consider filling your home office with items and
décor that pleases you. Sports memorabilia, movie posters and magazine
cut-outs might not be appropriate for a workspace in a shared office,
but can be utilized in your home office which you are in charge of. The
great thing about having a home office is you get to create a work
environment catered to your likes and needs to help you complete your
daily tasks with as much ease and comfort as possible.
