Your office is calling…
By: Cathy Davin
Is your office speaking to you? Is it saying, “Good morning – great to see you! Come in, sit down, and enjoy the day!” Maybe not, because too many offices say, “Help me! Save me! I’m confused and stressed!” Most business professionals spend more time in their office than they do at home, but often consider home as their comfort zone.
Let’s take a good hard look at your work space and really see what its saying. Is it supporting you? Is it organized and comfortable? Maybe it’s adding to the stress and confusion of each day. And have you considered what your office is communicating to clients, associates and visitors? Yes, your office is speaking volumes…and most aren’t happy with what is being said. If so, a re-design will pay you back in spades!
Style savvy
You got style – Infuse your space with your own personal style, whether you work in the smallest cubicle, a home office or you’ve landed the spacious corner office. Select a style that appeals to you – modern, traditional or somewhere in between – they all work!
Color is key – Choose a color scheme that sets the right tone for your day – while some personalities work best in a brightly colored, energetic atmosphere, others prefer a calm, quiet color scheme to help keep stress levels in check.
Accessorize – Surround yourself with furnishings and accessories you love – perhaps a beautiful painting or sculpture, a soft rug under your desk or fun, colorful desk accessories.
Functionality
Here are key considerations for optimum functionality in your office:
Storage – It seems that we can’t have too many file drawers and open shelving areas. Stash clutter in attractive containers to keep them out of sight yet close at hand.
Lighting - the best lit work spaces have at least two light sources – general overhead lighting and task lighting that can be directed specifically onto the work area.
Work surface – make sure your main work surface is a comfortable size, whether it be a traditionally styled desk, table, or conference table.
Computer placement – use articulating arms for your monitor and an adjustable keyboard tray to maintain good posture. Support wrists and arms, minimize glare to avoid eye strain….proper ergonomics is key!
Comfortable chair – another key factor! You spend a great deal of time sitting in your office chair. So to avoid back problems, it’s important to have a chair that supports the lower back and promotes good posture. There are great options in many price ranges and styles that range from old world traditional to sleek and modern.
Inspiration
Here are some photos from manufacturers and blogs – perhaps you will find some inspiration and motivation to get started on your own office design project!
How’s this for separating work from home life? Complete with power, ventilation and a locking door! The next generation in office space: http://www.officepod.co.uk/
A fun and relaxed work atmosphere can inspire creativity!
A home office that’s tucked into the space under the stairs, plus a good example of stashing clutter in attractive storage containers so everything is close at hand, but out of sight.
Clean contemporary lines, but with the traditional warmth of wood and patterned rug, but… if you really want to impress, put away the Kleenex box!
Cathy Davin has been helping clients bring their interior design and decorating dreams to reality for over 20 years. She is owner of Davin Interiors LLC and an award-winning designer.