A Nice Little Set-Up

Here’s how to create a practical and efficient workspace in your home

- Sandy Cook

At first it was a novelty. Lockdown meant no more getting dressed up, tackling traffic and settling down in an office that’s either too hot or too cold. Working from home meant you could slouch around on the sofa in your pyjamas while getting your work done faster.

But fast-forward a few weeks and your back aches, you’re irritable because you’re constantly being interrupted by family members and it looks as if this work-from-home business is going to continue for the foreseeable future as the pandemic is going nowhere.

It’s time to get serious about setting up a healthy workspace. Here’s what you need to know.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Ideally you need a dedicated room to work in, preferably one you can close the door on at the end of the workday. But if this isn’t possible, earmark a dedicated space in your home, one that isn’t a thoroughfare for others.

If you have small children, however, you might want to situate the office relatively close to their play area to keep an eye on them.

Avoid using your bedroom as an office. If you work in here you’ll find it hard to switch off when you need to unwind.

Keep all your work materials organised in your chosen workspace to avoid having your job spill over into the rest of your home.

“You don’t want to drag work into the living room or other places you are trying to relax in,” says interior designer Kerrie Kelly.

SHINE A LIGHT

Your workspace should have good lighting. First prize is if it’s next to a window so you can get some fresh air and natural light.