If you work from home, your home office is likely a sacred space. It’s where you keep your laptop and answer emails, after all. Remote work continues to trend with many different companies offering generous work-from-home packages as well. This means that some companies will help pay for upgrades to your home office. But whether they pay for it or you do, here are some of the best upgrades you can make to your home office.
Add Soundproof Windows
When you’re working, you need to focus on the tasks at hand. Whether you are answering calls or putting together an important presentation, distractions can be troubling at home. Soundproof windows can be a great addition to your home office, as they help control the sounds that pour in from inside or outside.
This can be especially helpful if you have an open floor plan and hear your neighbors through the walls. The cost of soundproofing windows will depend on the size of your window and how much insulation you want to install. There are also different types of soundproof windows with some being designed for indoor use, and others created for outdoor use.
Customize Your Desk
A comfortable place to work is a must when you’re working from home. Upgrading your home office often means adding a new desk to the space. For the best results, choose a desk that’s the right size for you. Consider how comfortable it will be to sit at your desk all day long. Some people choose adjustable desks so they can sit or stand at different times during the day. Others choose a desk with a drop-down tray for the keyboard. It’s important to find a desk (and chair) that help you to create an ergonomic workspace.
Create a Wall Mural or Add Wall Art
Brighten up your space with art or a wall mural. Some people choose options that reflect the kind of work they do. If you’re in the advertising business, you could have an enlarged version of one of those pages from an old Life magazine ad. Some just choose an image because it brings them joy. Adding these personal touches to your home office can make it more appealing to work in and help you be more productive.
Adding wall art to your office is an easy and inexpensive way to give your space some color. You probably spend a lot of time in front of your computer screen and this can make it difficult to focus if you’re surrounded by blah beige walls. Adding art that inspires you can help bring a little bit of life into your workspace—and it doesn’t have to cost too much.
Install Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are a great way to add storage space and display items you want to show off. You can use them as a display for heirlooms, photos, or other important items. You can show off your achievements or have images of your loved ones there to remind you of why you worked so hard in the first place. Floating shelves are ideal for keeping books organized and accessible while adding some visual appeal to your home office decor at the same time.
Use Plants
You’ll breathe easier and feel better when you have plants in your office. Plants are the most simple and effective way to improve the air quality in your home office. Plants are good at absorbing pollutants from indoor environments, and some studies show that they can improve your mood as well. There’s plenty of evidence that having plants in a room can help with stress and anxiety, boost productivity, and make people feel more relaxed overall.
Get a Task Chair
Look for a task chair with a high back, preferably with a headrest. This will help support your neck, allowing you to sit up in an attentive position. Consider the armrests on the chair. Are they adjustable? Do they move out of the way when needed? Can you customize them to fit your height and reachability needs?
Rethink Your Lighting
Lighting is one of the most important elements in a home office. Natural light, whether it comes through a window or through skylights, is best. But when there isn’t enough natural light available, you’ll need to add task lighting—and that can make all the difference. It can ease eye strain, help you see better, reduce headaches, and more.