13 home office ideas for a workspace that works as hard as you
Upgrade your home office for peak productivity
As of 2024, about 25% of people worldwide are working from home at least one day a week, and it’s not just individuals – it’s organisations, freelancers and teams everywhere. A well-planned office space goes beyond aesthetics; it ensures comfort, productivity and focus, making remote work both effective and enjoyable.
As remote work becomes increasingly common, let’s dive into essential home office ideas – covering the basics, the right furniture and the extras – that will help individuals and businesses alike create spaces that foster productivity, no matter where the work happens.
Photography by Vitra, Montana, Louis Poulsen, Audo and Fritz Hansen
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When working from home, it’s important to draw a line between home and work.
The basics: 4 ideas for creating a productive home office
Before you get into picking furniture or personalising your space, you need to get the fundamentals right. These basics are the building blocks for a home office that feels functional, comfortable and inspiring.
The space
Maximising your available space is step one. Whether you’re working in a tiny corner or have an entire room to dedicate to your office, it’s all about using the space smartly.
If possible, try to place your desk near a window – natural light is a game-changer when it comes to boosting your energy levels and keeping you focused. Even if you’re dealing with a small area, vertical shelving or under-desk storage can help you make the most of what you’ve got without feeling cramped. You don’t need loads of square footage, just a thoughtful approach to how you use it.
The work zone
When working from home, it’s important to draw a line between home and work. Creating a specific work zone, no matter how small, helps you flip that mental switch when it’s time to get down to business.
If you’re in a shared or multi-functional space, like a living room, this could be as simple as using a room divider or sound-absorbing screen. The goal is to carve out a space where your brain knows, ‘this is work time’, helping you stay more productive, even when distractions are nearby.
Ventilation
Good air circulation is something we often overlook, but it’s critical to your home office setup. Fresh air helps you stay alert and clear-headed. If you can, open a window regularly to bring in fresh air and keep the space from feeling stuffy. If that’s not an option, consider investing in an air purifier, especially if you’re working in a basement or attic.
Natural lighting
You can’t underestimate the power of good lighting in a home office. Natural light is the best option for keeping you energised and reducing eye strain, so position your desk to get as much daylight as possible. When the sun’s out, it can be a real boost to your focus, but managing glare can sometimes be a challenge. Simple fixes like blinds or repositioning your screen can help make the most of natural light without straining your eyes.
If you’re working late into the night or on darker days, a task lamp with adjustable brightness is essential. It keeps you focused while reducing eye strain and avoiding glare or fatigue. Look for lighting that’s easy on the eyes but still bright enough to prevent drowsiness. For more tips on managing sunlight and glare, check out our article on 6 ways to manage sunlight and reduce glare at work.
On average, people spend about 6-8 hours a day sitting in their office chair, which adds up to over 1,500 hours a year.
The furniture: 4 must-haves for comfort and support
Once the basics are in place, it’s time to think about the furniture that’s going to support you throughout your workday. Comfort and functionality are key here. The right chair and desk can make the difference between a productive day and one filled with aches and pains.
The office chair
Your chair is one of the most important parts of your setup – it’s where you’ll spend the majority of your working hours, so comfort and support are crucial. On average, people spend about 6-8 hours a day sitting in their office chair, which adds up to over 1,500 hours a year. With that much time spent seated, it’s vital to have a chair that’s both comfortable and supportive. A chair with good lumbar support and ergonomic features will help maintain good posture and prevent back pain, ensuring that long hours at your desk don’t take a toll on your body.
Something like the Fritz Hansen Series 7 chair offers both style and comfort, but if you’re after more adjustability, chairs like Vitra’s ID Trim provide excellent lumbar support and flexibility for longer work sessions. Whether you prioritise design or functionality, investing in a high-quality office chair will make all the difference in your daily comfort and overall well-being.
The desk
A height-adjustable desk is another game-changer for your home office. Research shows that sitting for long periods can increase the risk of health issues like heart disease and diabetes. In fact, sitting for more than eight hours a day without any physical activity has been associated with a 10-20% increased risk of premature death. On the flip side, standing all day isn’t ideal either, as it can lead to discomfort and fatigue. This is where a height-adjustable desk comes in, offering you the flexibility to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day.
Desks like the Vitra Physix Desk make it easy to alternate between positions, keeping your body moving and reducing fatigue. Studies suggest that standing for even just two hours a day can improve posture, increase energy levels and help you stay more focused. By adding a standing option to your workday, you’re not only making your workspace more comfortable but also supporting long-term health and productivity.
Lamps
Good lighting isn’t just about seeing what you’re doing—it affects your mood, energy, and focus. If you’re lucky enough to have natural light, position your desk to maximise it. But when you’re working late or on dark days, task lamps are essential. A well-chosen lamp like the Louis Poulsen PH 3/2 Table Lamp offers both style and function, with adjustable brightness to reduce eye strain. Wästberg also offers a range of attractive options for task lighting that keeps you focused without glare or fatigue.
For more lighting tips, check out our article 8 steps to transform your workplace with office lighting.
Storage
Clutter is productivity’s worst enemy. You need storage solutions that keep your workspace tidy and organised without sacrificing style. Modular systems like Montana Furniture’s are perfect because you can customise them to fit exactly what you need –
whether it’s extra space for files, books or just keeping the desk surface clear. The key is to find a balance between function and style, ensuring that your workspace stays neat without feeling like an afterthought.
Open shelving is another stylish and functional option, allowing you to display items while keeping everything organised. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out our article on the most striking open shelving systems for a stylish display.
It’s one of the easiest, most affordable ways to enhance your workspace.
The extras: 5 additions to elevate your workspace
Once the essentials are sorted, it’s time to think about the small touches that make your workspace not just functional, but a place you actually enjoy being. These extras might seem minor, but they can really elevate your home office experience.
Personalisation
Your home office is still your space, so make it feel like it. Adding a few personal touches can make the space more enjoyable without distracting you from your work. Whether it’s a favourite piece of artwork, some cool desk accessories or a few quirky items that reflect your personality, these small details can help you feel more comfortable. Just keep it simple – too much clutter can actually make it harder to focus, so be selective about what you bring into the space.
Beverages
We all know how important coffee (or your favourite beverage) is to getting through the workday. Having a little beverage station in your office can be a small but luxurious touch. A thermos or jug for coffee or tea keeps your drink warm while cutting down on trips to the kitchen. Not only does this save time, but it also helps maintain focus. Plus, it adds a sense of comfort to your workspace, making the day feel a bit more enjoyable.
Plants
Studies show that adding plants to your workspace can reduce stress and boost productivity. And who doesn’t want a little extra calm during a busy workday? Plants like succulents, ferns or even a simple spider plant are easy to maintain and can help freshen the air. Not only do they add a bit of life to your desk, but they also make your home office feel more inviting and comfortable. It’s one of the easiest, most affordable ways to enhance your workspace.
For more tips, check out our article on 6 ways to enhance office design with plants for a healthier workspace.
Cable management
Cables have a sneaky way of making even the most organised desk look chaotic. Investing in cable organisers is a simple but effective way to keep your desk tidy. It also makes things easier when you need to switch out devices or rearrange your setup. Plus, fewer tangled cords mean your workspace feels cleaner, which can do wonders for your mental clarity while working.
The nook
Sometimes, you need a break from sitting at your desk, and that’s where a comfortable nook comes in. As a complement to your desk and chair setup, a cosy nook gives you a place to relax, think, or read away from the main workspace.
It can be as simple as adding a comfortable lounge chair and a small side table in a corner. This space lets you step away from your desk without fully leaving your work environment, giving you a change of scenery while staying productive. For some inspiration, check out our article with our pick of chic lounge chairs for hotels, offices and beyond.
Transform your home office into a productive, comfortable space with our range of stylish furniture and accessories. Get in touch at info@escandi.se to explore our options and find the right pieces for your home or remote setup.
