Home office: Keystone II Model at Hillside at Crystal Valley in Denver, CO
Are you ready to level up your work-from-home status? In today’s blog post, we’ll explore seven simple home office upgrades and design ideas to transform your workspace into a functional and inspiring environment. With a few quick tips, you can create a space that not only meets your professional needs but also enhances your productivity and overall well-being. Join us as we delve into the benefits of having a well-designed home office space and discover how these upgrades can take your work-from-home experience to the next level.
New year, new office space. Let’s get to work in 2024!
Upgrade #1: Ergonomic Furniture
When it comes to improving productivity and comfort, ergonomic furniture is a game-changer. Not only does it provide support for your body, but it also helps reduce the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. According to the Makara Journal of Health Research experts, “… the usage of ergonomic chairs will provide natural working posture that decreases skeletal muscle disturbance.”
Ergonomic chairs, such as the Herman Miller Aeron and the Steelcase Gesture, are designed to promote proper posture and provide adjustable features for personalized comfort. As for desks, options like the Uplift V2 and Fully Jarvis offer height adjustability, allowing you to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day. Fun fact: we have standing desks here at Taylor Morrison HQ!
Accessories like monitor arms, keyboard trays, and footrests can further enhance your comfort and productivity to complete your ergonomic setup. Looking for more information and specific recommendations? Check out the links below:
- Wired’s list of the best office chairs
- The New York Times Wirecutter’s essential ergonomic gear for your home office
Upgrade #2: Lighting
Glenwood Model at Hearthstone City Collection in Denver, CO
Good lighting changes everything. Not only does it enhance the overall aesthetics of the space, but it also has a profound impact on productivity and well-being.
Natural Light
Natural light brightens and beautifully opens any space while providing an array of benefits:
- Offers a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors
- Helps regulate our circadian rhythm, promoting better sleep patterns and overall health
Add Task Lighting for Improved Focus
In addition to natural light, incorporating task lighting is essential for focused work. Whether it’s a desk lamp or adjustable lighting fixtures, task lighting ensures that you have adequate illumination for reading, writing, or working on your computer.
Ambient Lighting Leaves an Impression
Ambient lighting sets the mood and can elevate the aesthetic of your home. This is the main type of light that will illuminate your space. Examples of ambient lighting include walls sconces, backlights, and chandeliers.
Benefits of Ambient Lighting
- Establishes a serene atmosphere
- Enhances visibility in your home’s pathways
- Showcases key features
- Minimizes harsh reflections
- Provides a more authentic lighting experience
- Introduces a sense of ambiance to any space
- Accentuates the architectural elements
- Utilizes light and shadows to create depth
By combining these three types of lighting, you can create a well-lit and functional workspace that inspires creativity and productivity.
Upgrade #3: Decluttering and Organization
Tremont Model at Overlook at Barber Rock in Charlotte, NC
It’s common knowledge that a decluttered and organized space leads to productivity. This statement goes beyond an assumption; science backs it up! According to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners,
“The visual distraction of clutter increases cognitive overload and can reduce our working memory. In 2011, neuroscience researchers… found clearing clutter from the home and work environment resulted in a better ability to focus and process information, as well as increased productivity.”
Win against clutter with these key tips and products from our partners at The Home Edit:
- Create a Workspace: Low on room? Install shelves on an open wall to create an open desktop.
- Store Your Supplies in a Way That Makes Sense: Keep your most-used supplies handy and invest in some nifty desk organizers to keep it all in order.
- Cord Chaos: Utilize cord wraps to keep hefty cords from computers and printers from getting tangled.
- To Do, File, Recycle: Go with a flow. Create a command center with open trays or letter sorters.
- Get Personal: Add a few knick-knacks or photos you love to keep you inspired.
Upgrade #4: Echo Dampening
The Estates at Palmer Ranch in Las Vegas, NV
By implementing echo dampening techniques, you can minimize the impact of external noises, ensuring that your home office becomes a sanctuary of tranquility. Various options are available to achieve optimal echo dampening in your home, from using specialized materials to employing effective techniques.
- Acoustic panels: Panels made of sound-absorbing materials can be mounted on walls to reduce echo and absorb sound
- Soundproof curtains: Made of heavy, dense materials that can block out external noise and absorb sound
- Weatherstripping: Method of sealing gaps around doors and windows to prevent sound from entering or escaping the room
- Door sweeps: Strips of material that can be attached to the bottom of doors to create a seal and block out sound
- Bookshelves: Filling bookshelves with books or other objects can help to absorb sound and reduce echo in a room
- Carpet or rugs: These can help to absorb sound and reduce noise transmission between floors
Upgrade #5: Personalization and Inspiration
Residence 3 at Carmello at Roberts Ranch, Bay Area
Your home office doesn’t have to be all work and no play. Create a dynamic and invigorating space to step into each day by adding personal touches, whether it’s a wall of family photos, plant stands with greenery, a brightly colored rug, desk games, and beyond.
Let’s Talk Color Theory
The vibe of your home office can significantly change with just a few pops of color. Discover which hues suit your work lifestyle with this handy guide from Space Refinery:
White
Innocence, Light
Yellow
Happiness, Cheerfulness, Spontaneity, Hope
Orange
Vitality, Enthusiasm, Energy, Friendship
Red
Passion, Danger
Pink
Femininity, Sensitivity
Brown
Nature, Wistful, Genuineness, Trust
Black
Sophisticated, Power, Luxury
Purple
Creativity, Wealth
Blue
Calmness, Security
Turquoise
Communication, Compassion
Green
Calming, Refreshing, Relaxing
Gray
Professional, Serious, Mature
Go Green!
There are so many reasons to go green when it comes to your home office this year.
Improved Air Quality
Plants in your workspace can improve air quality by reducing carbon dioxide levels and increasing oxygen production, leading to better concentration and productivity.
Serene and Calm
Plants can help reduce stress and create a calming environment, especially in a home office where you may be spending long hours.
Natural Beauty
Greenery also adds a touch of natural beauty to your workspace, making it more visually appealing and enjoyable.
DIY Soundproofing
Plants can act as natural sound absorbers, helping to reduce background noise and create a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere.
Upgrade #6: Technology and Connectivity
Rose Model at Desert Pearl in Las Vegas, NV
High-speed internet is always top-of-mind when working from home, allowing quick data transfer, smooth video conferencing, and fast access to online resources. Invest in a reliable wireless router to connect multiple devices simultaneously without lag or connectivity issues. To enhance the virtual meeting experience, equip your home office with video conferencing equipment, such as high-quality webcams and microphones, which can significantly improve the clarity and effectiveness of remote communication. By prioritizing these essential tech upgrades, you can create a home office environment conducive to productivity and success.
Loving our home office ideas? Check out our blog on ideas for your flex room for even more inspiration.
Happy New Year!
As always, thanks for reading! We hope you’re inspired to kick off the new year in a home office space that speaks to you. If you’re on the hunt for a brand-new home, check out our limited-time finance savings on select homes!
