How to set up a home office: Ergonomics 101

Has it been your dream to have a space at home where you can work effectively, in an organised, creative and personal environment? You might think that a home office has to be an individual room, and the place you’re currently residing in doesn’t accommodate such luxuries as a whole room dedicated to work, but don’t stress, flow is going to teach you how to create your own home office, tailored to your needs to increase productivity.

1. Designating a spot — the first step in the home office creation is looking at the space you are looking at, you want to choose a spot that is comfortable but also not distracting, so you can focus without irritations. These are some factors to take into consideration:

• Choose a space that has good lighting
• A chair that is comfortable but supports your back
• a level surface to write, type and or place to set up computers, books and stationery
• Space to store stationery that is close at hand

2. Organisation — when?creating a space to work, clutter and mess interfere with the flow of creative energy and productivity. Begin to sort out your space by removing things that are not an immediate necessity to your work, and either repurpose, recycle or store them somewhere where they won’t get in the way of your day-to-day tasks. Try labelling storage spaces for tech, stationery and other miscellaneous tools you’ll be using. Don’t be afraid to get creative with how you store your items! Our favourite idea we’ve seen is the pegboard! which works like a pinboard but can easily pop in mini-shelves and storage bins whenever you need them.

3. the ultimate support system — when working for hours on end at your desk, back and neck issues are not uncommon. But with the help of clever design, you can make your workspace the most comfortable place to be!

• computer elevation — craning over your work can strain your neck and greatly affect your posture. So raise your computer on some stacked books or lower your chair to ensure your screen is eye-level.
• Footrest — this helps take off the strain from the lower back and improves circulation
• A chair with back support — with a proper chair that offers lower back support

4. Decor — in the previous article about minimal design, we covered the simple design tips you could use to make your space feel cleaner, trendier and more open. Try incorporating small plants as it helps oxygenate the room and will help you feel more relaxed. Some cool office toys to help relieve stress and ease an idle mind. An effective and stylish light source such as a swing-arm lamp. All these elements help you personalise and truly own your space. A jar of snacks that’s reachable never hurt either.

All-in-all doesn’t matter if you have a whole room, a dining room table or even a coffee table where you make the magic happen, it’s all about space management to maximise productivity and inspire your workflow from the comfort of your own home.