Whether working from home or travelling to an office every day, we all want to feel inspired and productive in our work space.
Unfortunately, when we are busy, the office can become a chaotic dumping ground filled with paper files, miscellaneous objects and discarded gym equipment.
To help turn your office into a stylish and functional place to work, the Temple & Webster style team have put together their top tips to refresh your office, the smart way.
1. Declutter and organise your space
The first step to achieving a fresh and stylish office space is to declutter. Remove everything from the space that’s not office appropriate and decide how you are going to organise the area to best suit your needs. For example, do you need a shelving unit for sample products, or a file cabinet for paperwork? When organising your office space, remember, less is more!
2. Think about your view
When refreshing your office, think about what inspires you. Do you like pops of bright colour and pattern or a more minimalist and gentle colour palette? If you’re lucky enough to have a window with a great view, orient your desk to face it - it’s been long known that having greenery in or around your workspace helps reduce stress and gives the eye somewhere to rest when taking a mental break.
If a pretty view isn’t an option, small potted plants, wallpaper and artwork are a trendy way to help beautify your space. Artwork and small desk plants are especially great for those in a company office, who may not be able to change the colour scheme and need something temporary.
3. Choose the right desk
The desk is the focal point to any office, so it’s important to ensure it’s both stylish and functional. If you’ve already got a desk, focus on accents that compliment its colour, tone or texture. In a new desk, look for something that caters to your everyday needs. If you work with a laptop only and have minimal need for storage, something sleek and simple will work best. If you have files, stationery and other items to accommodate, look for something with a little more storage to help keep you organised.
4. Don’t skip on ergonomics
Sitting in an office every day can be really hard on your body, particular your back. This is why it’s so important to choose an office chair that’s comfortable and supportive, as well as stylish. When deciding on a chair for your office, choose something that works with your desk and the space. In a smaller space, choose something with a lower back, that will keep the room feeling spacious. However, if you have the luxury of a larger space or work in a more corporate setting, it’s well worth investing in a quality ergonomic chair. Your back, neck and shoulders will thank you!
5. Maximise your space
Often times, your ‘office’ can be part of a larger living space, such as the living room or kitchen. That doesn’t mean you can’t achieve a classic office feel. Multifunctional furniture is a great way to ensure you’re making the most of the area whilst saving on space. A stylish bookshelf can double as file storage and your desk can function as a side table or a great place to show off your indoor plants! Get creative to ensure your office space inspires you each time you sit down to work and you’ll never feel like work is a chore!!
