As remote work becomes the norm, many individuals share their home as an office with a colleague or partner. If you and another person work from the same space, optimizing it for productivity becomes essential, particularly when dealing with limited square footage.
The ultimate objective is to create a functional and efficient environment that incorporates feng shui principles, provides ample storage, and minimizes clutter. Whether residing in a rented apartment in Austin or calling New York home, enhancing your home office setup can significantly enhance your overall experience.
Now, let’s delve into design ideas that can inspire productivity within your shared workspace.
1. Color schemes for productivity
Consider painting your office in a shade of teal, as it has been found to inspire productivity. To accommodate varying tastes, paint one wall with a complementary accent color, such as earthy terracotta or a subtle cream. Position your desks against the opposite, beautifully painted teal walls for a visually pleasing and focused workspace.
2. Decor that motivates you
Create an atmosphere that fosters inspiration and creativity by incorporating motivating decor. Accent pieces like plants, encouraging wall art, and candles can make the space cozy.
3. Incorporate ambiance to boost your energy
Enhance the cozy atmosphere of your home office by placing a scented candle on your work desk. Consider energizing scents like Yuzu Black Tea, which combines black tea with a burst of Japanese yuzu citrus. Also, crystals such as apophyllite, agates, and plants can promote a calm and revitalizing ambiance.
4. Office furniture that works for you and your space
Invest in desks and chairs that suit each individual’s style and needs, ensuring a sense of cohesiveness. If distractions are a concern, fixed chairs instead of swivel chairs can minimize disturbances. Arrange the workspaces back-to-back to avoid distractions.
5. Lighting can make a difference
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Adequate lighting is essential for productivity. Maximize natural light whenever possible, and consider using blue LED technology to support circadian rhythms. If you and your partner have different sleep schedules, choose lighting products with dimming capabilities to accommodate individual preferences.
6. Vertical storage for more space
Utilize vertical storage solutions to maximize your small workspace. Hang items on the walls to free up floor space and maintain an organized environment.
7. Sit close to your office buddy
Placing two desks on one wall in a small space can be an effective layout choice. This arrangement helps avoid background distractions during virtual meetings and allows for more freedom of movement.
8. Find a balance with your home office mate
Communication is key when sharing a home office. Discuss each other’s needs to ensure productivity and happiness in the shared space. Choose furniture that serves multiple purposes and maximizes functionality, such as a bookshelf that can double as a workstation.
By implementing these ideas, you can create inspirational work space that boosts productivity and makes your shared home office a comfortable and efficient space for both individuals. Remember, even small changes like decluttering, organizing, and rearranging furniture can significantly impact the overall atmosphere of your workspace.