Chapter 1: Give Yourself Some Space

Creating a separate home office, physically or psychologically, is an important part of staying sane and productive. Consider that Google spent a billion dollars on its UK headquarters and that the workplace is usually the second largest expense for employers. Space matters. It can influence productivity by up to 20%, according to research. Some of the later parts of this series will explain how and why to fine-tune your space with light, plants, routine, organization, and ergonomics—but first think conceptually and practically about creating the space itself, distinct from the rest of your home.

Sarah and Dan Mirth, co-founders of Artifox and an architect and engineer by training, suggest beginning by evaluating your current routine and workspace needs. Don’t just dive in. Make sure you have everything you need for a typical day’s work, that you’re physically comfortable doing all your tasks, and take the time to solve any of these outstanding issues before proceeding with work. Similarly, define boundaries in both space and time, which means creating a physically separate home office—and only doing your work and responding to emails in that place. If you’re short on square footage, create a routine for setting your space and breaking it down each day.

Ian Reid, co-founder of Oakland and Sonoma-based Medium Plenty, agrees that structure is helpful. “Work appropriately,” he says. “Being at home means not being tied to the typical office schedule and norms and the ability to mix up activities throughout the day. This doesn't mean running from one distraction to the next, but does mean you can put in a good morning session of work and then head out on a ride when the fog clears.”

And of course: consider your aesthetic. Sarah and Dan suggest displaying your favorite items “like headphones or artist prints, anything that helps cultivate creativity.” You can also position your desk near natural light, surround yourself with plants, and light a candle—design elements we’ll explore in greater detail later in the series. 

Lastly, get out of your cool new home office sometimes. “The home office situation can present unique challenges of isolation” Max Strang, founder of Florida-based Strang Design, says. “Strive to separate yourself from the desk. Great earbuds are a must. If a meeting doesn’t need to be a video conference— just make it a phone call and take a walk.”

Creating an effective space for work at home doesn’t just mean finding some corner to put a desk and a chair. Instead, it requires taking a holistic look at your space, how you use your time, and what your aesthetic preferences are. 

Before diving in and buying a desk, chairs, or taping off some part of your home, take the advice from the experts above and think through the following prompts; 

• What kind of needs do you have for a workspace?

• What do you need to create a private space?

• What kind of workspace design makes you feel most comfortable?

• How do you structure your work time?