How to create an office environment at home to enhance work requirements, both ergonomically and aesthetically.
Practical
Ergonomics is the process of designing or arranging workplaces, products and systems so that they fit the people who use them. Ergonomics aims to improve workspaces and environments to minimise risk of injury or harm.
1.
Retreat
If possible it is best to work in a private study/office with a door in your home, preferably a sound-proofed space. Alternatively, perhaps you have a outdoor garden building that could be converted into a suitable office space?
2
Light & Air
A well lit space and a temperate environment are conducive to a good working day. Use sheer blinds to reduce glare on computer screens. Good task lighting allows visual focus on the work in hand. Working conditions too hot or too cold have been shown to have a significantly adverse effect on concentration and work performance, so keep the temperature balanced to your requirements.
3.
Sit Down & Stand Up
There is no substitute for a good desk and being higher is optimum. Neither laptops nor regular chairs are advisable for continuous usage. To encourage movement choose a standing desk. A mix of sitting and standing desks is preferable for varied movement and energy through a working day.
4.
Support
Sit on an attractive lumbar supportive chair. This should swivel, rise and lower and should also offer support to the arms.
5.
Eyes Forward
The height of your computer screen is really important. A table top computer, with a large screen is preferable to a laptop. Ideally, your eyes should be in line with a point on the screen that is about 5-10 cm below the top edge of the monitor. The centre of the screen should be around 17-18 degrees below the eye level.
Beautiful
Aesthetics should be kept in mind when designing. Elements to consider when designing are: Movement, Scale, Proximity, Texture, Colour, Shape, Pattern, Line and Balance.
6.
Texture
The fabric choice for an office chair is really important. Go for breathable textiles or natural fabrics. Avoid materials that may be itchy or hot in summer.
7.
Colour & Pattern
In our studio we love a monochrome office theme, its classic, timeless and professional. It also works with any pop out wall colour, we love sage green with this look. Keep pattern to a minimum as it can be distracting. Go for business influenced patterns like houndstooth and herringbone, these work really well on furniture textiles.
8.
Shape
Choose a desk with a smooth surface and if possible curved edges. This could be a natural wooden desk top or a lacquered composite top. Glass and stone tops tend to be cold to work on and can be noisy when placing things on them, although there are some very attractive off the peg options available. It depends on your preference.
9.
Line
Keep cables out of sight by using a cable management system under the desk to keep a clean look. Keep paperwork hidden away in attractive storage files or boxes. Use shelving at different heights to store accessories.
10.
Balance
Really there is no such thing a work-life balance. Its all life.
'You cant do a good job if a job is all you do'
Bring green elements such as potted plants into your office space. Office plants can increase the humidity around the desk, remove toxins from the air, and add a touch of nature to your workspace.
Remember to take regular breaks from your desk, look out of the window long distance and make time for wellness in your working day.
Studioamano
A · Mano, meaning "by hand"
Creating distinctive environments that are authentic, contemporary and characterful.
Creating simple yet significant work, in the belief that quality contemporary design can be delivered at every project scale.
Creating homes that are elegantly habitable, that give back and speak of the people and setting that they belong to.
Creating public spaces that tell a story and inspire us to commune with others who encounter and experience them.
Creating places that offer the chance to be, pause, reflect and grow.
Creating places that are respectful of their time and look forward to the future.
Places that nurture the soul.
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