As you know, home offices are a specialty of mine, and I really liked this article in Houzz by Shawn Gauthier.
If you work from home, you know how important your home office is to your everyday life. But just like any office space—at home or elsewhere—it’s easy to let important aspects like functionality and organization fall to the wayside during hectic workdays.
If you feel like your home office is in a rut, it may be time to assess its current state. You may need just a simple improvement, like adding a bulletin board, or a larger change, like replacing your desk. Here are 9 great tips to refresh your home office for the new year:
1. Hang Bulletin and Dry-Erase Boards
Office life is full of important papers and quick ideas. Instead of cluttering your desk with papers or jotting thoughts on Post-Its, keep a bulletin board and dry-erase board nearby to catch everything at a glance.
2. De-Clutter
Start fresh by removing what you don’t use. Toss anything you haven’t touched in a year, and file away the rest. You’ll feel more focused in a clean, streamlined workspace.
3. Assess Your Office Chair
If your office chair leaves you aching at the end of the day, it’s time for a new one. Since you spend hours in it, choose an ergonomic option that adjusts to support your body properly.
4. Improve Your Organization
Think about what your work requires. Could you use more drawers, filing cabinets, folders, or shelving? Stock up and put a system in place that works for your daily needs.
5. Fill Your Office With Things You Love
Your office should also include inspiration. Surround yourself with motivating artwork or décor—but don’t go overboard. Keep it organized and avoid clutter.
6. Let in the Light
Natural light boosts productivity and mood. Move your desk closer to windows so you can enjoy daylight as you work.
7. Have Ample Lighting If Sunlight Isn’t an Option
If you don’t have big windows, make sure your office has a mix of ambient lighting and task lighting—especially directly over your desk.
8. Turn Your Desk Into Décor
Not every home has a spare room, so your office might live in a bedroom or living area. Choose a stylish desk that blends in with the room. Use shelves and decorative pieces to mask the workspace.
9. Use Extra Space Creatively
Want to start the year with your own workspace but short on square footage? Look for nooks—like under stairs or inside closets—that can be transformed with a desk and some creativity.
Or follow this closet office transformation—close the doors, and no one will even know it’s there.
