As remote working becomes a more common aspect of professional roles, homes are having to adapt their design to accommodate the need for working environments to be established alongside living spaces. This might seem like a simple task, requiring only space for a computer, but those who embark on teleworking tasks will know all too well that without a well-designed professional environment, remote working from home can be a challenge.
The features that make a remote working space successful, however, are easily achievable for many. Even residents who are renting a property can find it easy to cultivate an environment that is conducive to their professional success. To help, we’re sharing the five essential features of remote working spaces at home.
Storage
Without dedicated storage, that which safely contains documents and tools necessary for a role, tasks will become cumbersome. From printers and scanners to filing cabinets and folders, a home office should be designed to mimic that which is offered at a central office space. While such spaces aren’t always the most aesthetically pleasing, they are functionally refined and, importantly, secure.
Privacy
Modern offices will often seek to minimise distractions for employees, typically through traditional desk dividers. While residents don’t need to begin cornering off their desks at home, they should consider some sort of divide to help separate their professional space from their personal space.
Many accomplish this successfully by establishing their office in garden outbuildings, converted sheds, and even log cabins. By doing so, homeowners are able to create a distraction-free space that, at the end of the day, also enables them to switch off from the responsibilities associated with their work.
Professional Aesthetics
While most residents are likely to refrain from directly emulating an office aesthetic, there is value in creating a clean and professional workspace. In addition to helping cultivate focus, professional designs also reflect well on employees during virtual conference calls. While sitting on a sofa or on a bed might be comfortable, it is far from professional and won’t bode well with managers.
Peaceful
Office spaces are designed to minimise distractions. At home, this can be more difficult, not only because of potential housemates and family members but also because residential areas aren’t designed for the same professional purposes.
As such, remote workers should ensure that they establish their working spaces in a room or area that minimises potential interference from disruptors such as traffic.
Comfortable
There is a great deal of study that goes into the optimisation of office spaces, especially regarding businesses that use computers, with the ergonomics of chairs and keyboards being constantly refined.
It is a good idea to design your home office space with the same considerations in mind, ensuring that your working space is comfortable and therefore conducive to your work. If you play on remote working long-term, then it is worth investing in certain high-quality furniture items, such as a professional chair and spacious desk too.
