Designing Your Perfect Home Office Desk: Options for Every Need
I’m going to be moving house soon and one of the things I’m looking forward to is actually having my own home office for the first time ever! When it comes to hybrid working, having the right home office setup can make all the difference. I’ve tried working from the dining table, the couch, and even my bed, and while these spots all have their plus points, nothing beats having an actual dedicated workspace.
The Fold-Up Desk: Perfect for Small Spaces
If you’re short on space, a fold-up desk can be perfect. These little pieces of furniture can be folded away when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space. They come in a variety of styles, from wall-mounted versions that fold down to standalone models that tuck away neatly into a closet. Not only are they practical, but they’re also quite affordable. Plus, there’s something satisfying about transforming a small corner of your home into a full-fledged workspace in just seconds, and then packing it away at the end of the day.
Standing Desks: Keep Moving While You Work
Standing desks have become quite the trend, and for good reason. They offer a great way to break up the monotony of sitting all day and can actually be beneficial for your health. Many standing desks are adjustable, allowing you to switch between sitting and standing with ease. This flexibility can help reduce back pain and improve posture. If you’re worried about the transition, start with a standing desk converter that sits on top of your existing desk and see how you like it.
L-Shaped Desks: Maximum Surface Area
For those who have a bit more room to play with, an L-shaped desk might be just what you need. These desks offer ample surface area, making them ideal if you’re a multitasker who needs space for multiple monitors, paperwork, and other office essentials. The corner design also helps you maximise space in your room, creating a cosy and efficient workspace. Plus, the extra legroom can’t be beaten!
Desks with Shelving: Stay Organised
If staying organised is a top priority, or you just want to surround yourself with lots of personal/motivational items, consider a desk with built-in shelving. These desks combine workspace and storage, providing easy access to books, files, and supplies. It’s like having a mini-office within your office! Look for designs that offer a mix of open shelves and closed cabinets so you can keep things tidy and out of sight.
Desks with Built-In Monitor Stands: Ergonomic Excellence
Ergonomics is key when it comes to creating a comfortable home office, and desks with built-in monitor stands can help you achieve the perfect setup. These desks have a dedicated shelf for monitors, helping elevate your monitor to eye level, reducing strain on your neck and shoulders. It’s a simple yet effective way to improve your posture and make long hours at the computer more comfortable. If your desk doesn’t come with a built-in stand, you can always add a separate monitor riser—however, there’s an elegance to have it just be part of your desk.
Choosing the Right Chair: Comfort is King
No matter how great your desk is, it won’t do you much good without a comfortable chair. Investing in an ergonomic office chair is crucial. Look for chairs with adjustable height, lumbar support, and cushioned seats. You want something that supports your back and encourages good posture. If you’re spending a lot of time on video calls, consider a chair with a headrest for added support. And don’t forget about armrests! Adjustable armrests can help reduce strain on your shoulders and wrists.
If You Have a Whole Room
Now, if you’re lucky enough to have a whole room—or even a garage or shed—dedicated to your home office, the sky’s the limit. You can get creative and set up multiple workstations: a primary desk for computer work, a secondary table for paperwork or just reflection/thinking/doodling, and maybe even a cosy reading corner with a comfortable chair and good lighting. Consider adding some personal touches like artwork, a pinboard for inspiration, and plenty of plants to bring some life and freshness into the space.
Lighting and Cable Management
Good lighting in the workspace is essential for all sorts of things, from appearing well on video calls to just feeling awake and motivated. Natural light is best, but if that’s not an option, invest in a good desk lamp. Now the last thing you want that light to shine on is a bunch of cables all over your shiny new desk—keep those cables tidy with some cable organisers or a simple under-desk cable tray.