Remote work is now a long-term reality for many across the UK. Whether you’re working from a box room or a spare bedroom, having a functional setup makes a big difference to focus and wellbeing.
The problem is, most homes aren’t built for full office setups. Small spaces and tricky layouts mean a simple desk can turn into a cluttered corner fast. Here are a few smart ways to make your workspace actually work.
1. Choose the Right Spot
Not having a spare room doesn’t mean you’re out of options. A quiet corner, a bit of distance from the main living area, and a few thoughtful choices can be all you need to set up a workspace that actually works.
For some, that might be the guest room. For others, a large landing or an underused alcove works just as well. Wherever you set up, make sure it’s somewhere you can focus — ideally with natural light and enough space for your essentials.
2. Make Comfort a Priority (Without Overdoing It)
If you’re working from home for long stretches, a proper chair and a desk at the right height are well worth it. It might be tempting to use whatever’s lying around, but dining chairs and tables aren’t built for full-time work, and you’ll feel the difference over time:
- Invest in an ergonomic chair;
- Choose a desk with a height that supports good posture;
- Design your setup around what you use daily: laptop, monitor, printer.
3. Use Your Space Smartly
Space is often tight in UK homes, especially in flats or terraces. So every inch matters. Wall-mounted desks, floating shelves, and corner units can make a big impact without dominating the room.
This is where built-in wardrobes come into their own. If your home office shares space with a bedroom or guest room, these wardrobes can do double duty. Instead of just storing clothes, they can house office supplies, folders, stationery, or tech equipment — all hidden behind clean, flush doors.
Many fitted wardrobes can be customised to include compartments or shelving specifically for home office use. This keeps your desk clear and your space looking tidy, even during busy weeks.
4. Keep It Visually Tidy
Clutter can make a small space feel overwhelming. The fewer tangled cables, scattered papers, and random bits lying around, the calmer your workspace will feel.
Use cable organisers, tuck away plug sockets where you can, and choose storage options that let you pack things out of sight when you’re done for the day. Keeping your setup neat helps maintain a sense of order, especially if the room has to double up for other uses.
5. Set Clear Boundaries Between Work and Home
Working from home can blur the lines between job time and personal time. Simple habits — like closing your laptop, using a room divider, or switching off a work-only lamp — can help mark the end of your day:
- Shut wardrobe doors or drawers to ‘hide’ work gear;
- Use visual cues (lamps, dividers) to separate zones;
- Stick to work hours where possible.
6. Light Matters More Than You Think
Try to set up your desk near a window — natural light can help you stay alert and concentrate better. Still, don’t skip on proper task lighting. A reliable desk lamp is a must, especially during gloomy winter days or when working outside typical hours.
If your workspace is part of a bedroom or living area, use separate lighting to define each zone. It’s a simple way to create a mental divide between work and downtime, even within the same room.
7. Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches
A plant, photo, or favourite mug can make your workspace feel more personal and inviting. In shared homes, these touches also mark the space as yours. Keep storage nearby so essentials stay within reach but out of sight, helping the area stay tidy and relaxed.
Final Thoughts
Working from home usually means finding smart ways to use limited space, especially when one room has to serve more than one purpose. But with some planning and the right setup, it’s totally possible to create a home office that’s both practical and comfortable.
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