Design Tips for Boosting Productivity in Your Home Workspace During Lockdown

With the ongoing pandemic and the shift towards remote work, it is more important than ever to set up a functional and productive home workspace. In this guide, we will explore essential design tips and hacks to help you maximize your productive output from the comfort of your home. Whether you are a solopreneur or a part of a bustling home office, these tips will ensure that you have everything you need to succeed.

Create an Actual Workspace

Having a dedicated workspace that mimics a professional office setting can significantly enhance your productivity. Preferably, this space should be designated with a door that allows you to create a physical separation from the rest of the household. For instance, during lockdowns, my husband set up his office in the breakfast nook. While this arrangement worked for a limited period, it quickly became clear that having a quieter and more private setting was necessary. By the end of the weekend, we repurposed a bedroom to serve as a proper office, complete with a door for privacy.

Plan Your Workflow

Efficiency in your workspace starts with planning how you work. Not all tasks are digital; some may require physical documents, pens, and paper. Ensure that your work surface can accommodate your needs. An 'L' configuration can be highly effective, providing ample space for files and plans on one side and a deep desktop in front of your monitor for your notebook and pen. Place your printer, file cabinets, and storage for paper and ink near your work area. Additionally, don’t forget to have a designated place for paper recycling to keep your workspace tidy.

Sound Quality

A bare room with a hard desk and computer can echo and can feel quite cold. However, this is an opportunity to improve the acoustics of your space by incorporating soft surfaces. Add curtains, rugs, a soft armchair, and wall hangings to mitigate echoes and create a warmer ambiance. These additions will also help in reducing noise disturbances, making your workspace more comfortable and conducive to productivity.

Background and Atmosphere

If you frequently engage in video calls, paying attention to your background and lighting is crucial. While you don’t need a curated bookshelf, consider what’s in your current environment. Ensure that your light source does not cause flickering or other color distortions that could negatively impact your professional image. Remove any unnecessary clutter and outdated art or memorabilia. Instead, use items that provide a professional appearance, such as a new light bulb or a piece of adult art. Even a simple change like this can make you feel more professional, regardless of where you are located.

DIY Minimalist Solutions

Creating a mini office can transform a simple room into a productive haven. For instance, I converted a 3-tier bookshelf into a makeshift computer desk by adding a slab of wood from my old dining room table. To match the setup, I painted the desk pink and repurposed a wooden jewelry box as a file cabinet. I even found abandoned chafing dish trays and converted them into desk top filing trays. Finally, I added a glass tabletop and brass elements to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the workspace. Simple DIY solutions can go a long way in creating a functional and stylish home office.

By implementing these design tips and hacks, you can create a tailored workspace that enhances your productivity and comfort during the pandemic. Whether you are working from home or managing a remote team, proper design will ensure that you remain efficient and focused. Happy working!