Make it Work: Designing a WFH Space
Who knew, that ten months after being sent home at the start of the pandemic, many of us would still be here, spending workdays in our sweats?
If you’re like me, the adjustment took a while. Don’t get me wrong – I actually LOVE working from home – but the problem was that I never had an actual workspace. Pre-pandemic, I spent most days on a college campus; at my desk, meetings, or student events. So I’ve never in my professional life, felt like I needed an office in my home life. And then… the world flipped upside down.
I spent quite a while in a steady weekday rotation: dining table for Zoom meetings, couch for day-to-day work, and pacing for phone calls. (Repeat.) When I started taking an online class, I took over the other half of said dining table with drawing materials and textbooks. It took some long days on Zoom (and a few backaches) for me to look past my laptop and realize it was time for a change.
For anyone in the same boat – or just tired of their current setup – here are some tips to consider when reworking your workspace:
It doesn’t need to be a dedicated space.
Most people (myself included), don’t have an empty room in their home, just waiting for a purpose. So find a corner, closet, or other nook that could work for you. Walk around and rethink areas that may be underutilized. I landed on my master bedroom, which had a corner free of furniture, just large enough for a small desk and chair. Those in search of quiet in a busy household may find the basement or guest room to be a better option. Do what works for you!
Get the right equipment.
Nothing is worse when working from home than an uncomfortable chair. There is SO much reasonably priced seating out there that looks nothing like that typically found in a cubicle. Watch for sales, as well as adjustable height options if your desk calls for it. Speaking of desks… they come in all shapes and sizes. Work with what you’ve got (even a card table), or buy something new if it’s in your budget. Deep, wall-mounted shelving can also be a viable option, depending on the space.
Work, but make it fashion.
There’s nothing wrong with giving your new workspace some style! A framed picture, plants, or other meaningful accessories can give a basic desk personality, and make you feel calm when work stress picks up.
Keep it neat.
If you choose a multipurpose room, make sure your workspace stays contained. No one wants to roll over in bed and see mounds of work waiting for them the next day! Consider a small file cabinet, rolling cart, wall-mounted display, letter trays, or organizers. Working in a studio apartment or cramped space? Try a folding or floating desk instead of a larger piece of furniture.
Remember: You don’t have to spend a fortune or build an addition to your home to create a workspace that works with your lifestyle and aesthetic.
