Work from home? 7 essential interior design tips to set up a productive home office

Work from home design: Adding plants to your home office can help you calm the environment. Effective space planning allows for the creation of different functional zones within the home office (Image: Canva)

Post-COVID-19, remote working and home offices have surged in popularity. As businesses embrace flexible work environments, employees face the challenges and opportunities of working from home. “While the idea of working from the comfort of your own space may initially seem appealing, the reality is that without a designated and well-designed workspace, productivity can suffer,” says architect Nomita Sawhney, Founder Design by Meta.

She adds, “A well-designed home office can not only enhance work performance but also contribute to a sense of balance and well-being in one's personal and professional life. Therefore It  is essential to understand the importance of creating a home office space that increases productivity, creativity, and positive energy.”

Sawhney shares 7 strategies for creating a functional home office:

Dedicated workspace: Reserve a designated area for your home office. It ensures separation from household activities, allowing you to focus on your work. However, if you are in a creative field, and thrive on some level of distraction, integrating the home office within common areas like the kitchen can also be effective.

Draw inspiration: Include  on elements like natural light, calming colour tones, and textures in your setting. Choose ones that  resonate with your personal style and provide inspiration and connection with your work.

Get some oxygen: Adding plants to your home office can help you calm the environment. Effective space planning allows for the creation of different functional zones within the home office.

Prioritise comfort and well-being: Make comfort and good health a priority, even when working from home. Invest in a comfortable chair and desk to support your posture during long work hours. Avoid sitting anywhere that may compromise your posture, as proper seating is essential for maintaining productivity and well-being in a relaxed environment.

Improve ambiance with music: If music inspires you and you're not tone-deaf, playing background music can boost creativity and concentration. Invest in a quality music system and consider acoustics to create a conducive work environment.

Optimise ventilation and lighting: Let your office space be close to nature. Well-ventilated spaces with ample natural light promote oxygen flow and enhance productivity. Additionally, views from windows provide inspiration and encourage efficient work.

Add a personal touch: Embrace the versatility of your home by exploring various workspaces that suit your needs. There are no strict rules; choose a spot that resonates with you and customise it to reflect your unique style and preferences.