In light of the recent situation, many offices nationwide are closing their doors and asking employees to work from home - maybe for the first time. Even workplaces that are still operating their full business as usual face the uncertainty of the effect that the COVID-19 outbreak may have on their working life.

Here at Bluespot, we understand the pressures that the virus is placing on individuals and businesses, and we are pleased to offer free delivery of our UK made products, as well as the option to reschedule or delay your delivery while self-isolation and quarantine procedures are in place.

Setting up a home office is no mean feat, especially for those who unexpectedly find themselves working from their living room. Creating a space that is as inviting as the rest of your home will boost your enthusiasm and productivity - and hopefully, make the day go faster!

Choose the best space

It’s vital to take your time finding an office space in your home that works for you.

You’ll need to consider things like the strength of your internet connection, does it reach well enough to the corner of your bedroom? Is there adequate lighting? Will you be distracted sitting opposite your TV?

Don’t make the common mistake of forcing your desk into the first available space. Instead, look at where you want to work, even if this means rearranging the rest of your furniture. They say that a change is as good as a rest and that definitely applies to the working environment!

The last thing you want to do is simply fit a desk in a free space if this won't suit how you work, doesn't give you access to plug sockets and means there are too many distractions.

Add a splash of colour

One of the cheapest and simplest ways to modernise your office is by adding a bit of colour.  Painting the office with natural, bright and soothing colours can give you a great lift and help you focus on work.

Unlike being in a shared office, a home office means you have the freedom to add your own personal touch, truly making it your space. If a lick of paint isn’t for you, try adding colourful paintings, bright frames or pictures of attractive scenery.

You can also choose some colourful office furniture, which will make your workspace stand out as a feature.

Bring the outdoors in

via a Quiet Cottage Life

Bringing greenery into your home office can have both physical and psychological benefits. Having plants in your office will increase your productivity and creativity. It also reduces sickness and improves your working environment.

It is important to choose the right plants to suit the office environment, though as you want plants that are easy to look after. With this in mind, some of the best plants to keep in your office are:

• Spider plants
• Cactus
• Ivy
• Peace Lilly
• Rubber Plant

Don't forget that the pots you choose for your plants also make a difference. Choose practical pots but also those that can add a design element to your office.

Brighten up your space

It’s important to ensure that your home office has the right lighting levels so you can easily see your work and so you can maintain your focus.

If the lighting is either too bright or too dim, you could end up fatigued, which can also result in eye strain and headaches. If you're working late, you may find a desk lamp is helpful to keep the light levels right after the sun goes down.

Alternatively, adding standing lights or spotlights to your work area could be beneficial, especially if your desk isn't near a window.

Stay organised

Organising your workspace is crucial; it encourages your productivity, reduces your work-related stress and saves you time. Essentially, organisation is the key to success.

A clean and well-kept home office can have a significant impact on your focus at work but it doesn’t have to be dull! You can find bright storage units and desktop organisers that can add colour to your home office too.

Even better, office storage will help you tidy away all your work at the end of the day so you can easily separate your work and home lives. This is especially important if your office space is in a room like your lounge, as putting everything away can help you relax when you aren't working.

Create a positive environment

You want your workspace to be as personal as possible - after all, it's in your home! Having a corkboard on, or close to, your desk pinned with photos, inspirational quotes and goals is a great way to keep your focus. Adding your own stamp in this way will keep you motivated and be good for your overall mental health.

While you may be tempted to keep your desk clear so it doesn't draw the eye when you aren't working, little touches like this can make it much easier to get through your workday.

Final thoughts

Whether your home office is the norm or just a pop-up in these uncertain times, it is important to follow these helpful tips to separate your home from your workspace. If you’re looking for any home office furniture online, then why not begin here with our stylish new Carbon range?