Phrases such as “flexible hours” and “work-from-home” sound appealing, but for many, they also mean finding office space in a preexisting living space. One of the drawbacks of a home office, especially for those living in small apartments, is finding a way to maintain focus without getting distracted by television, chores, and roommates. In a rented apartment, structural changes usually are not possible, but decorative decisions are always an option, and often the cheapest and easiest one as well. Here are some tips for how to maintain that physical and psychological space, even when there isn’t much of it available.
The right area
If possible, work at a desk, not the kitchen table. Even if you only have room for a corner desk or small table, being able to keep your computer and files in one place specifically for work will help keep you focused and motivated. No matter what type of desk you decide is best, and whether you prefer it in a bedroom or living room, place it against a wall. If you face out to the room, you will soon be distracted by your personal life. That pile of magazines, TV, bills, unmade bed, and dish-filled sink should be totally out of sight. Although spare closets can be hard to find, if you have one, consider placing your workspace there - you can close the doors at 5 p.m. and tuck your work away for the night.
Just because you need to focus on work, does not mean you need to stare at a blank white wall. This is your home and not a corporate cubicle, after all. Decorate that wall with inspirational images, motifs, books, or other objects. Here are a few working-wall decorating ideas:
Floating Bookshelves
These shelves provide a place to store your books for easy access—perfect for those small apartments where your new desk occupies the last remaining space. The hidden shelves allow your books to become artworks on the wall, rather than to-do lists. And they are great conversation starters!
Wall Shelves
Simple wall shelves which come in a huge range of prices and styles allow you to use objects of your choosing as your inspirational material. If you’re an artist, perhaps Andy Warhol–themed Campbell’s soup cans will inspire you; if you write about travel, consider framed photographs of your favorite sites; flowers and candles are other soothing options.
DIY inspirational artwork
If you have an inspirational phrase that you adore, and that you know will encourage you to work harder, consider using it to make your own artwork. You can paint the phrase onto a canvas, or create a poster on your computer to have printed at a nearby office store, and then frame it to make it wall-ready. Use colors that match the rest of your space: even though the office stands apart from the room, the two can be connected to it through color.
Wall Stickers
Wall stickers are a great option if you don’t (or can’t!) drill holes into your working wall. Consider a WallArt2u image that provides a Zen-like feel. When you look up from a stressful report, or are frustrated by a rejection letter, your wall sticker should make you feel at peace, encouraging a deep breath. Consider flowers or butterflies, birds, or other animals.
Just remember, your at-home workspace is your new 9–5 spot, so make sure your arrangement, themes, colors, and objects are pleasant to look at early in the morning and at the end of a long day. Keep distractions out and motivation in!
Featured images:
License: Royalty Free or iStock source: www.shuttershock.com
Author Bio - This article has been written on behalf of Alison Evans - a Interior Design and Home Decor Enthusiast
