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1. Establish visual and acoustic separation of the work space. Whether it’s in a completely private room or just an amoire, you should feel like you’re in a different place entirely when you’re working there. And, at the end of the day it’s easier to mentally leave your work at “the office” if you aren’t having to look at your messy desk or piled up inbox…
2. Get rid of the clutter. You probably have pictures of the kids in the hall so you can live without six tiny picture frames eating up a quarter of your desk surface. (Okay, okay. One or two is probably not going to kill you). Unfortunately, the same goes for the cool magnetic paperclip tower you built. Instead of piling on the decorative junk, choose functional items (like a task light) that are beautifully designed as well.
3. Closed storage, closed storage, and closed storage. It’s easier to keep your space neat (and increase your productivity) if you have storage that conceals the contents, rather than open shelving. The containers you choose should also be sized appropriately for the stuff that’s in them—so you aren’t digging through them in search if some important, but microscopic item.
4. Color is more important than you think. If you want to feel energized and need a little subconscious boost, go for a bright, bold color on the walls (or upholstery). Usually stressed at work? Try a cooler paint color or even a neutral (but no beige please!).
5. Incorporate natural elements. Try to position yourself so that you can see out a window, or at least get some natural light. Plants provide visual stimulation and the occasional distraction to care for them, but be sure to choose plants that are suited for the light levels of the space. At the very least, choose office furniture that is made of natural materials such as real wood, stone, or leather.
Rohde Hill, interior designer, S. Rohde Hill Design, www.srohdehill.com
