7 Necessary Home Office Essentials

Home Office Desk 

One of the most essential items you need for your home office is a comfortable work desk. You want one with enough space for all of your tech equipment. Obviously, there are tons of styles to choose from, some of which include: 

1. Writing Desk: A writing desk is an open desk with a large desktop and includes minimal storage. Writing desks work really well if you work from a laptop or tablet. 
2. Computer Desk: A computer desk works best when you use a traditional monitor and computer tower. It has all the space you need for accessories, cables, and peripherals. Add in a pull-out keyboard tray and you're good to go!   
3. Executive Desk: An executive desk has a big footprint, is generally made from wood and has lots of storage. If you want a piece of furniture with timeless appeal, this desk is for you!
4. Credenza Desk: A credenza desk combines a desk with a credenza, which is a cupboard storage system. It's larger in size and works best when placed against a wall. Plus, plenty of room is included to store and display items.
5. Corner Desk: A corner desk is great if you have a small home office. Shaped like the letter L, there's plenty of room for your computer, desktop accessories, and personal mementos.
6. Floating Desk: If you want to optimize space, a floating desk is an ideal solution. It's mounted to the wall, leaving the area below open.   
7. Standing Desk: Many people like to work on an adjustable standing desk where you can adjust the desk's height throughout the day. Standing desks also help alleviate the health risks associated with sitting 24/7.

In addition to choosing the desk style you want, carefully consider the material you want your desk to be made from.   

• Wood desks have a classic feel to them.   
• Glass top desks are often paired with a wood or metal base and add a modern touch to your home office.   
• Metal desks are practical and long-lasting.   
• Laminate desks help keep work surfaces from sustaining stains and damage.   

There are many different styles of desks to consider for an office space. The best desk is one that fits your work style and, in some instances, your partner's as well.

Chairs 

You spend a lot of time sitting in your office chair so why not choose one that's comfortable to boot? When shopping for an office chair, there are a few traits you should look for: 

• Adjustable Height: You want to adjust the height of your desk chair so it is comfortable for you. Ideally, you want your chair positioned so your thighs are horizontal to the floor.   
• Adjustable Backrest: Look for a chair with a backrest you can move forward or backward and lock in place to better support your back.   
• Lumbar Support: It is essential to have the proper lumbar support when sitting down. The lumbar support should keep your lower back slightly arched for the best results. 
• Armrests: Armrests can reduce the strain from sitting and working. If you don't like to use armrests, look for a chair where you can move the armrests out of the way when necessary.

Storage 

You will need to have some storage space in your home office for any and all supplies. Consider the following pieces:

• Take Advantage of Wall Space: Make your wall space work for you by adding shelves and using cork boards to post reminders of upcoming project due dates.
• Create Custom Cabinets: Don't purchase a generic cabinet or bookshelf and try to make it work. Instead, invest in custom cabinets that complement your workspace.
• Use Magazine Files: Buy a few magazine files and use them to organize paperwork and supplies.   
• Stack Things Up with a Letter Tray: A letter tray is great because it provides multiple trays for different paperwork without taking up too much desk space.   
• Use Coordinated Boxes: Invest in cute, coordinated boxes and baskets for organizing your supplies.
• Get a Storage Ottoman: An ottoman provides you with space to sit and store items. You can add trays inside the ottoman to further enhance its functionality.   

Lighting 

It's essential to have the right light when working from home. The best way to light up your space is by layering the lights and adjusting them to suit your needs. According to Bobvila.com, there are eleven different types of lights to consider when setting up a home office, including desk lamps, floor lamps, and task lights.

Tech Accessories

There are lots of gadgets you can add to make your home office more practical and functional, such as:

• Solar Powered Battery Charger: You can stick the charger right on a window, allowing the charger to power up from the sun while keeping your phone charged. 
• Cable Organizers: Avoid your wires getting all tangled up with one or two cord organizers.
• Portable Monitor: With a portable monitor, you can add one to two screens next to your laptop when needed and fold them away when not in use. 
• Phone or Tablet Stand: Shop for a stand for your phone or tablet and position it at eye level.   

Plants

If you want your home office to be a productive and soothing space, add a couple of plants. Plants can remove harmful pollutants from the air and reduce stress. House Beautiful offers a list of easy-to-care-for plants you can add to your office and liven up the space: 

• Cacti 
• Air Plants 
• Pothos 
• Spider Plants 
• Snake Plants 
• Succulents 
• Bamboo 
• Peace Lily 
• Red Aglaonema 
• Rex Begonia 
• English Ivy  

Personalization 

It's important to personalize your home office. At the end of the day, you need to feel comfortable working in that space. Gleam inspiration by:

• Creating an art wall with framed photos of loved ones as well as inspirational artwork 
• Hanging up photo clips so you can easily swap out pictures throughout the year 
• Putting up a cork board where you can hang up personal items   
• Adding a signature color
• Painting one wall a vibrant color 
• Peel and stick wallpaper to add another pop of color

Your home office is your own personal workspace, so be sure to personalize it with artwork, pictures, and colors that bring you joy. A joyful workspace will contribute to a more productive environment. 

Conclusion

When designing and building your workspace, start with finding a suitable desk, chair, and storage solutions. Then, add layered lights and tech accessories to make the space more functional. Finally, bring in plants and personal touches to make your home office more comfortable for you to spend time in. 

Sources

• https://www.bobvila.com/articles/home-office-lighting-tips/ 
• https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/gardening/g3716/best-office-plants/