Your home office is a physical representation of your own company. It is where you will spend most of your days, and where clients will form an impression of you - so it's important to make sure it has the right atmosphere. Keep in mind that around 75% of workers prefer a quiet environment when trying to focus and feel that current noise levels in their offices are too high. Think about how people will move around your space, where they will congregate, and if you need separate areas for meetings or brainstorming. Whether you're redecorating or starting from scratch, keep an open mind - in today's digital workplace, do you actually need cumbersome objects like filing cabinets anymore?
A Blank - Or Colourful - CanvasResearch a little colour theory before you grab the paintbrush - which areas would you like to be calm and creative? Do you need somewhere with brighter hues to encourage energy and impulsion? Also, think about how colours on your walls, floor, and furniture could be used to delineate space and set out areas for different teams or workplace activities.
Furnishing Your SpacesDon't necessarily limit yourself to items branded as 'office furniture', as this might not have the look you're going for. Workstations and chairs need to be comfortable and ergonomic for your employees, but consider different colours and designs to inject some personality. If you need creative, collaborative spaces for discussion, look at comfortable sofas and chairs which are positioned to encourage conversation.
The Finishing TouchesWhen accessorising, avoid impersonal or unnecessary objects. Instead, opt for things which are eye-catching and interesting, but serve a purpose too. This makes them feel part of the space rather than just superfluous clutter.
- Indoor fountains provide a great focal point in an office and exude an air of luxury, but the calming noises and soothing motion they provide are also great for your workers.
- Pot plants can be a bit of an office cliche, but don't discount them out of hand. Humans are responsive to multi-sensory experiences, particularly those with natural elements.
- Green space is soothing and creative, but on top of that, the plants help to increase the quality of air in your office.
- Encourage employees to personalise their workstations, showing you value their individuality.
- Don't just go for boring stock images - choose art which means something to your company. Word clouds or typographic art can be customised to represent your company's values and branding.
If you're stuck for ideas, check out offices of companies you admire - or don't - to get some ideas of what you like, and don't be afraid to mix things up a little.
Here are some Office Space images as Inspiration
