11 Tips to Create a Cozy Home Office: A Designer’s Guide
Is your home office a catch-all for things in transit in your house? In the whirlwind of running a household and being a busy professional, your office can take a backseat to other rooms in the house. Since so many people continue to work a hybrid schedule, your home office must be a priority. It can be challenging to bring in the right things for this multifunctional zone where productivity meets peace. Here are our tips to make your home office a hygge zone where comfort and professionalism dance together in perfect time.
Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important.”
1. LET THERE BE LIGHT (THE RIGHT KIND)
Add layered lighting and directional task lighting. Desk lamps with soft bulbs create a cozy atmosphere. Instead of harsh overhead lights, add a floor lamp or two. Layered lighting allows you to control the atmosphere for any given task.
2. SIT LIKE A QUEEN
Comfortable seating is non-negotiable. That budget desk chair might seem like a steal until it starts stealing your comfort. Opt for an ergonomic home office throne with lumbar support. Remember, a snug chair is your best ally in conquering your empire one email and deadline at a time.
3. A DESK THAT MOVES WITH YOU
A sit/stand desk is your ward against the midday slump. It gives your body the freedom to stretch and move, releasing tension. Occasional dance breaks get those creative juices flowing for better innovative ideas and higher productivity.
4. THE GUEST STAR: AN ACCENT CHAIR
An accent chair isn’t just for show; it’s a vital productivity and morale booster. Sometimes, a change of perspective can be the thing that boosts your motivation. Or perhaps you need to read a dreadfully dry report in a position that might make it a bit more palatable. Working from home often means more visitors as well. Including an accent chair gives little and big visitors alike a place to sit and visit with you as you work.
5. YOUR VIDEO CONFERENCE BACKDROP
Yes, we went there. We’re still stuck in the Zoomiverse, and while there are plenty of virtual backgrounds, nothing beats your own curated wall. Curate a home office background that rivals virtual backgrounds and, better yet, doesn’t cut off ears. Tell a story through art, exciting wallpaper, and open shelving with personal artifacts or diplomas.
6. SPRINKLE OF YOU
Personal touches in your office are like the ingredients that make a dish unforgettable. Add a dash of family photos, artwork, or that stack of favourite books. When you add personal artifacts, they’re not just decorations but reminders of what fuels your soul. Just remember to add a sprinkle, not a shower.
7. ORGANIZATION IS NEXT TO GODLINESS
Keep your desk as clutter-free as possible. Invest in appropriately sized storage solutions to maintain a tidy and calming workspace. Add natural elements like a potted plant in a neutral vessel. Though it might be tempting, don’t turn your desk into a second garden. The key to a productive space is to keep the décor minimal and functional.
8. SET YOUR STAGE ABLAZE WITH CALM
Choose colours that soothe the soul and ignite the mind—soft greys, muted blues, and earthy tones that ground you. Then, add a dash of vibrant colour to infuse productive energy. It’s like dressing for success but for your home office.
9. TEXTURES THAT WHISPER
Textural elements are calming, but they’re also functional. Cushions, rugs, curtains, and soft blankets can soften the room’s acoustics. Acoustic privacy is essential if you are not alone in the house during your workday.
10. THE CEREBRAL SOUNDTRACK
Soft music, nature sounds, a podcast or audiobook can create the optimal conditions for trancelike focus. It’s the backdrop to your most productive moments. Some individuals are more productive in silence, and some need a lot of noise. Lean into the noise level that works for you. Controlling your acoustics is part of the luxury of working from home.
11. CANDLELIGHT MAGIC
We couldn’t have a hygge tip blog without suggesting the addition of a candle. The Danes wouldn’t allow it! Thank goodness most of our work is digital, so we don’t have to warn against fire hazards, but we still will. A subtle, soothing, natural fragrance can enhance the cozy feel. Select a candle with a wood wick to add to the ambiance. We get our best ideas while basking in the glow of a roaring fire. Do you?
FINAL THOUGHTS ON HOME OFFICE DESIGN
Embrace these elements and watch as your home office becomes a productive space that feels like freedom, not a work dungeon. Never again will paperwork and laundry pile in the office. You might even head there to de-stress outside of your working hours. Here at Krista Hermanson Design, we believe in the power of space. It has the power to restore you and help you reach your fullest potential.
Let us know when you’re ready for expert help on your Calgary renovation. We’re always here to add a little hygge to your home.
Other Blogs You Might Like
