The world of work has changed dramatically. And nowhere is that shift more exciting than in the rise of home-based startups.
The U.S. Small Business Administration revealed that 50% of businesses start at home. So, you’re not alone.
But building your empire from home doesn’t mean you can work from any area of your home. It’s important to create a workspace that inspires creativity and maximizes productivity.
Carving out a space that actually makes you want to work doesn’t require a big budget or an interior designer on speed dial.
For example, a few custom pieces from Glassisimo furniture and a bit of creativity can transform a corner of your home into a workspace that fuels your hustle and creativity.
So, scrappy entrepreneurs—read on to learn how to design a home office that is functional and inspires productivity.
#1 Design for Flow, Not Just Functionality
Most people focus on fitting in furniture. They are not wrong, though. But flow—the way your space feels and functions as a whole—matters more.
If you constantly get up to grab a notebook or shuffle papers around to make room for your coffee, is your home office organized? Not really. These little interruptions can kill your focus. Your home office should make tasks feel effortless.
Place items you frequently use—your planner, favorite pen, water bottle—within arm’s reach. Have a printer? Don’t set it across the room but near your desk.
If your workflow involves both computer time and brainstorming sessions, consider a dual-space setup. Designate one area for tech and another for analog activities like sketching or note-taking.
When your workspace flows with your tasks, you spend less time thinking about logistics and more time in the zone.
#2 Invest in a Comfortable Chair
Don’t settle for a hard, non-adjustable chair just because you’re trying to save money.
An uncomfortable chair can cause postural problems. An orthopedic surgeon affiliated with NYU Winthrop Hospital warns that sitting in an unnatural or bad position from a postural standpoint can break down your spine.
Splurge on a decent office chair. You’ll spend hours in it. So, it would be worth investing in something that won’t leave you hunched over like a question mark by the end of the day.
Look for something with proper lumbar support, adjustable height, and a comfy seat cushion. Bonus if it has armrests and can tilt back. And no, it doesn’t need to be a fancy $1,000 chair—a mid-range ergonomic one will do the job.
Ergonomics and comfort are the most important considerations when shopping for a good chair. But try finding a chair that is equally stylish. Yes, it’s entirely possible to find a comfortable chair that is aesthetically pleasing, says Architectural Digest.
Bolo 3531 is a case in point. Describing the chair, ELEMENT Home notes that it cradles the occupant in supple, durable Nappa leather while the tough steel frame offers support to the back. This chair combines elegant aesthetics with luxurious comfort, so neither occupants have to sacrifice comfort nor aesthetics.
#3 Go for Maximalist Interior
Just because most commercial spaces are toned down in both color as well as personality doesn’t mean your home office has to follow suit.
Real Simple states that the environment has an impact on productivity and mood. Why not inject energy and inspiration into your workspace?
Go maximalist. This interior design trend is popular among younger cohorts. According to PRINT Magazine, you’ll see mismatched textiles, extravagant gallery walls, and gilded brooding libraries if you scroll through #maximalistinteriors posts on Instagram.
So, embrace bold patterns, vibrant colors, and layered textures. Instead of sterile white walls, opt for striking wallpaper or a gallery wall filled with art that speaks to you.
As for furniture and decor, go for those that feel eclectic and alive. A plush velvet chair, a patterned rug, or a quirky lamp can become conversation starters on video calls.
#4 Minimize Audible Distractions
Noise can be a dealbreaker in a home office, especially if you share your home with family or roommates. And if you’ve ever tried to focus while someone’s vacuuming in the next room, you know how quickly productivity can tank.
The solution? Soundproof your space as much as you can. Add a thick rug to absorb noise, hang heavy curtains, and consider foam panels for your walls if things get really loud. Even small fixes like a door draft stopper can help. Can’t control the noise? Block it out. Noise-canceling headphones can help.
Also, don’t forget to invest in quiet electrical equipment. Ideal Home says that the louder the background noise, the higher you will have to turn the volume in phone and video calls.
Remember, your home office isn’t just a place to work, but it’s a launchpad for your business dreams. Take time to implement these strategies thoughtfully, and don’t be afraid to adjust as you learn what works best for you.
The most successful home offices evolve with their owners. Start with these foundations, but stay open to adapting your space as your business grows and your needs change. After all, flexibility and adaptation are key entrepreneurial traits—why shouldn’t your workspace reflect that, too?
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