To telecommute effectively, an office area is essential. If you do not have an office, it is always possible to arrange a workspace on a dining room table for example. Here are all our tips for creating an office corner at home, even in a small space.
Whether for a day or more in the week, teleworking has many followers. Working from home offers many advantages: optimization of the timetable, better productivity, time saving in transport… But it also requires a certain organization and especially the fitting out of an office area to be as efficient as possible. Yes, but for some – and especially those who have a small apartment – it is not always that simple. Don't panic, we give you some tips!
How to create a telework space at home?
If you are fortunate enough to have enough space and have a room, you are in the best position to take advantage of telework and its benefits. With a room in its own right, you will have a demarcated space so as not to let work intrude on your privacy.
If you can, set up your office as close as possible to a light source such as a window to make the most of natural light. Avoid dark corners but also stand back to the window at the risk of being bothered by reflections on the screen.
Don't have a room dedicated to an office? Rest assured, there are many solutions for set up a workspace in a bedroom, living room, entrance hall, etc.
You can simply put a small desk in it, opt for a 2-in-1 piece of furniture, a retractable desk or use the table in the dining room or the kitchen. And storage side, one watchword: minimalism. Provide functional and discreet storage to make files disappear after the work day and allocate a kitchen drawer for papers, for example.
How to arrange an office area in a small space?
In a small apartment, it is not always easy to find a place to work.
A simple table may be enough to set up a workspace. Opt for a dining table. Obviously, the larger it is, the better, especially if you are two (or more with the children) working from home. You can put your computer, your files, notebooks, books, etc.
Also think of the wall shelves, rather thin and not wide, that you can install along the length of a wall. Then just add chairs to work during the day and remove them at night to free up space.
On a small table, just put your computer and place your books and other notebooks on a chair or ottoman next to you, so as not to end up with an "office" upside down.
In the worst case, your coffee table can be used as a desk, in front of which you can sit on the floor, on a cushion. Try to wedge your back against a wall as much as possible (with cushions to make it more comfortable) to keep it straight.
Essential tips for setting up a work corner at home
- Lighting your workspace well
It is necessary to have good lighting, especially if you are used to working late at night. A desk lamp is therefore essential.
Scandinavian table lamp, € 34.90 on La Redoute
- Choosing a comfortable office chair
Choose a chair for its comfort to avoid back pain. The ideal is to opt for an armchair whose height is adjustable.
Office chair with black casters, € 59.99 at Maisons du Monde
- Provide the necessary equipment
Try to have all the teleworking equipment you need close at hand: printer, pro phone, multi-outlet, charger … This will prevent you from getting up several times and wasting time.
- Decorate the office without overdoing it
Whether you use a dining table or a real desk, the idea is the same: decorate your space to add a personal touch and feel good. A small plant, a candle, a pretty notebook and voila.
Scented glass candle, € 7.99 at Maisons du Monde