A new and growing wave of teleworkers, those who are able to perform their professional tasks remotely, are changing the way homes are designed. There is now a more significant need for professional space within the home. This is leading to spare rooms being prioritised as office space and to the rise in modular furniture options, such as hideaway offices. 

While some might resign themselves to working at a dining table or consider their kitchen to operate as a suitable office, those who wish to work to a high standard and for the foreseeable future are more likely to create themselves a dedicated workspace. For those wishing to join these ranks, here are the do’s and don’ts of doing so.

Do… Close The Door

One of the most significant issues with working from home is burnout. This occurs because individuals find it increasingly difficult to switch off at the end of the day when their professional spaces and personal ones conflate. This could happen because a computer notification is heard within the same room or perhaps a to-do list remains visible on the dining room table. 

To avoid burnout, professional spaces should be isolated when not in use, allowing residents to separate themselves from their employment responsibilities. This can be done with the simple closing of a door or with the use of outbuildings, such as log cabins, which allow individuals to contain their work entirely to an outdoor space. 

Don’t… Get Distracted

Workspaces should have the same aesthetic considerations as shared office spaces. Primarily this means not having potential distractions, such as with entertainment devices. Those who design their office space with focus in mind will be better able to complete their tasks and find themselves more productive.

This doesn’t mean working in a blank space. In fact, many find that creative designs can improve their focus and prompt better imagination and problem-solving.

Do… Get Comfortable

For those workers who are required to sit down for long periods of time, a high-quality chair is recommended. This is because sofas and dining chairs simply do not offer suitable support for long periods of time. Those who attempt to work from home by sitting on a sofa will soon, for example, find themselves with potential back issues.

As such, and much like shared office spaces, teleworking spaces should be equipped with suitable seating options, as well as standing desks, to enable residents the opportunity to work comfortably over long periods.

Don’t… Go Without

Cutting costs or making compromises will affect your work in the long run and even lower your enthusiasm for completing tasks. This is often because going without certain tools and facilities can be detrimental to efficacy. Instead, residents would do well to create workspaces with everything they need, whether this is a printer or filing cabinet. Other additions, such as aesthetic features, those that boost moods and improve video conference backgrounds, are also worthwhile since they can make a room feel more comfortable and enjoyable.