Ah, the home office. The perfect space for uninterrupted work and productivity. Unless, of course, it’s cluttered and uninspiring. Let’s face it, working from home can be a double-edged sword. While the commute is unbeatable, the distractions are plentiful. The key to a successful home office is to create a space that fosters productivity and inspires creativity. Our team of Interior Designers put together this list to ensure your home office is the oasis it should be.

Location, location, location.

The first step to creating the perfect home office is to find the right location. Ideally, your home office should be separate from your living space, in a quiet area of your home where you can focus without interruption. While it’s tempting to set up your home office in your bedroom or living room, it’s not conducive to productivity. Look for a spare room, an attic, or even a garden shed if you have one. If you don’t have a separate room, position your desk to face away from distractions like the TV or windows.

Organize your space.

Clutter is the enemy of productivity. Keep your space clean and clutter-free. Invest in some storage solutions like shelves, filing cabinets, and desk organizers to help you keep your paperwork, office supplies, and equipment all in one place. Avoid distractions like personal items, pictures, and decor that doesn’t inspire your work.

Lighting is key.

Good lighting is essential for productivity and your overall well-being. Ideally, your office should have a combination of natural and artificial light. Set up your desk near a window to let natural light flood in, and invest in a good quality desk lamp to provide focused lighting when you need it.

Comfort is essential.

Since you’ll be spending a lot of time in your home office, it’s important to invest in quality office furnishings that promote comfort and good posture. Invest in a good quality chair with adjustable height and lumbar support. Also, don’t forget to take regular breaks and stretch your legs.

Surround yourself with inspiration.

Lastly, surrounding yourself with things that inspire you can boost your productivity and creativity. Consider adding a plant or two to your office for a boost of oxygen. Paint your office walls in a color that inspires you. Add artwork that matches the tone of your work. Play some music that gets you in the zone. Whatever works for you, make sure your office represents the ideal working environment for you.

Having a home office is an incredible luxury, but only if it’s a comfortable, clutter-free space that promotes productivity and inspires creativity. Following these simple steps—choosing the right location, organizing your space, investing in good quality furnishings, making sure you have good lighting, and filling your space with inspiration—can make the difference between a productive working day or a frustrating one. Remember, your home office should be a space that inspires you to do your best work.