The Perfect Home Office: Spatial Relationships

Here are some tips to create a home office tailored to you and your working habits. Without the proper home setup we run the risk of compromising productivity, body aches or staggered inspiration. Before we dive in, let’s review some work from home facts. A Stanford study shows 42 percent of the labor force now working from home, another 33 percent unemployed, and the remaining 26 percent are essential workers. While the 42 percent is expected to decrease as vaccines continue to funnel out, it is expected that at least 20–22 percent of the work force to work from home.

Photo: Creating three zones on your work surface

Depending on your aesthetic, you'll want to choose a look that gives you energy, makes you passionate and keeps you inspired. In the office you have space that reflects the company mission, but at home you have the opportunity to explore your own personal style. Have fun with it!

We spend about 90 percent of our time indoors - thus, when deciding the location of your home office natural light is a key factor to consider. According to an NIH study, the impact of lighting on our circadian rhythm directly correlates to our ability to focus, and can increase our productivity and regulate our sleeping patterns.

Once you've optimized your space for natural light consider furniture. Knoll research suggests the combination of stretching with ergonomic furniture - including sit-stand work surfaces, adjustable task lighting, and adjustable monitors - set us up to, not only perform better, but to better protect our joints and posture. It's a great idea to stretch or move at least every 30–60 minutes, and that will be easier with the right furniture.

Finally, pay attention to your spatial arrangement. When mapping out your work surface for an optimal spatial relationship, you should consider three zones. The primary zone encompasses your keyboard and mouse, and is typically 15-17 inches from your person. The secondary zone within 27-inches, is where items like coffee mugs, phone, calculator or headphones sit. Finally, the face of your monitor should be at least 42- 45 inches from the edge of your work surface. Keep in mind that for all measurements, one size does not fit all and all measurements are recommendations based on the average person.

Stay tuned…the next blog post will begin to explore the relationship between colors and textures.

Prosha Interiors + Design is in no way affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with the companies mentioned in the above blog, or any of its subsidiaries or its affiliates.