If like me you love to browse on the internet to find inspiration and decor ideas, you’ll probably know that by simply typing “Desk Ideas” on Pinterest you’ll discover thousands of boards for every style and taste. However, those Hygge/Boho/Pastel-Coloured/Insta-Worthy desks aren’t exactly what you’re looking for if you’re aiming at comfort & functionality. They might be pretty, but they’re not practical. If you’re willing to give up the Scandi rose-gold aesthetic to level up the efficiency of your home-office, the following 4 items are definitely must-have!
An Ergonomic Office Chair
Even though a Kartell or a Thonet chair would be more aesthetically pleasing than a basic, black ergonomic office chair, the latter is with no doubt better not only for your daily comfort, but also for your overall well-being. Ergonomic chairs help your have a good posture, making sure that your hips are aligned, the spine is correctly positioned and and that the neck is in the right place. Not an outstanding piece of furniture, but your back will surely thank you.
A Second Monitor
Once you start working with a second monitor, you cannot go back. Even though second monitors are mostly found at the workplace, they can be extremely helpful also at home, both for study and work purposes: one monitor for researching and the other one for working. If you have enough space on your desk, a double monitor is a purchase you should consider: not having to constantly switch desktops will make you work better and faster.
Good Lighting
Lighting is one of the aspects of decor that is mostly influenced by trends, however when it comes to office lighting, it’s important not to let temporary styles take over. We all saw those hipster bulb-shaped lamps or the coachella-inspired fairy lights on the wall, and even though they might be nice and stylish, they are not the kind of light you want for your working station. The lamp on your desk should provide light that is warm but natural, not too strong & direct but also not weak. You want to be able to work in a cozy, well-lit environment that doesn’t hurt your eyes.
A Cable Management Box
Cables might be the last thing you’ll think of organizing in your home office, however I believe that cable management tools are often underestimated. A clear mind starts in a clear space, and a floor (or a desk) full of cables isn’t exactly the ideal starting point for a stress-free environment. I know it might not sound anything major, but one these little cable boxes can really make the difference and give your room a totally different look. Think about it the next time you’re walking through the hallways of Ikea!
So guys, did you set up your home office in a professional & functional way or did you let creativity and style take over? Did you manage to find a compromise between the two? What’s your #1 must-have in your home office? Let me know in the comments!
Hi Veronica
Nice post! An ergonomic chair is a must. I couldn’t agree more.
Thank you Davide! Ergonomic chairs are really important and shouldn’t be underestimated
This is so important!! I have a really bad posture and always have to remind myself to sit straight. Especially now as we all need to work or study from home people should consider to invest in a better and more ergonomic home office situation. Thanks for the great tips.
thank you Stella for your comment! I agree with you, these piece of furniture can be pricey but the benefits they provide are priceless!
Hi Vero,
Although I considered some ergonomic aspects when “setting up my home office” two months ago, I feel neck pain which probably not only comes from less sports but also from unsufficient care about my posture in front of my desk. Thank you very much for your insights! 🙂
Cheers, Corina
yep, I think all our bodies where really influenced by this quarantine. Can’t wait to move my body again!
Reading your post, I should really consider buying another chair especially not that we basically stuck on it the whole day. Since everything was moved to home office, I also have a second screen which makes working for school or for work soo much more comfortable. 🙂
If you find an ergonomic chair that doesn’t look horrible let me know! 😀
I have just noticed that my home office is very poorly equipped. All the things you have listed I am currently not paying attention to. Thank you very much for the valuable tips which I will implement.
it’s never too late to start!
Hi Vero, such an interesting article, thanks. I do not have an ergonomic chair because I chose an aesthetically pleasing one instead, but I could never do without my desk lamp!! For me is so important to have a warm but strong enough light, can’t work when is too dark!
Good lighting i super important! Thanks for sharing your experience 🙂
Ciao Veronica! Another great article! Reading it, I’ve noticed how I’ve not been taking care of my back at all since working from home daily. I really need a better office chair! Also, I’m very proud of myself for remembering to take my big screen with me when I left the office – it’s been a life saver!