Me and my friends were on a call the other day. We were sailing on the same boat of misery of unplanned work-from-home office arrangements. I started crying out of my situation – I sit on my living room sofa, laptop perched precariously on my knees, trying to find the perfect angle where I can sit properly and where the Wi-Fi signal is strongest and the background is least embarrassing for video calls. She showed her approval to this problem. She added to the problem by saying her makeshift office was the living room integrated with the dining area – constantly under threat from her mother, who believed mealtimes were sacred and that laptops had no business being there.
With the rise of work-from-home culture, many of us have found ourselves juggling work and personal life within the same four walls. What we all ‘work-from-home-buddies’ need is a space where your back doesn’t start aching within an hour, and where you don’t have to mute yourself every time a pressure cooker whistles. Also, I would not want to disturb the comfort and aesthetics of my living room. And you already know why. It’s a bonding space. It’s where we watch TV together, listen to all the jibber-jabber of our siblings, this is where we entertain our guests
So, if we want to achieve a living space into a home office interior, it undeniably requires a bit of a flexible approach. And not going to lie, I knew I’d be writing this blog anytime sooner or later. Hence, I researched thoroughly and found some practical and comfortable ideas to address our shared problem.
With the rise of work-from-home culture, many of us have found ourselves juggling work and personal life within the same four walls. What we all ‘work-from-home-buddies’ need is a space where your back doesn’t start aching within an hour, and where you don’t have to mute yourself every time a pressure cooker whistles. Also, I would not want to disturb the comfort and aesthetics of my living room. And you already know why. It’s a bonding space. It’s where we watch TV together, listen to all the jibber-jabber of our siblings, this is where we entertain our guests
So, if we want to achieve a living space into a home office interior, it undeniably requires a bit of a flexible approach. And not going to lie, I knew I’d be writing this blog anytime sooner or later. Hence, I researched thoroughly and found some practical and comfortable ideas to address our shared problem.
1. The Foldable Workstation
A polished desk that folds out when you’re ready to work and tucks away smoothly when you’re done. This not only saves space but also maintains the room’s charm. Just telling you, there are many brands (like WoodenStreet) that offer customizable furniture solutions that cater to such needs.
2. Room Dividers
When you feel you have scarcity of space in your living room, there comes the room dividers. They can help you delineate your workspace from the rest of the living area. And to your surprise, let me tell you that there are a range of options from traditional wooden partitions to modern softwalls made of flexible materials. They not only provide privacy but also add an element of style to the room.
3. Ergonomic Seating
I might be talking blunt here but truth be told that sitting on the floor with a laptop might have worked during college days. Now, our backs deserve much care. You need to invest in an ergonomic chair that’s going to complement your living room décor, and will clearly ensure comfort during work hours without compromising on designing. In fact, it will add to it.
4. Storage Solutions
You like psychology? Yes, then great. If no, then you’ve still probably come across this quote – a cluttered space can lead to a cluttered mind. So, how to implement this now? Alright, you can incorporate modular storage units which will help you to keep work essentials organized and out of sight. Also, think along the lines of wall-mounted shelves or storage ottomans that double up as seating.
5. Lighting
If you don’t want to lose your eyesight, then why compromise on this hack of light! That’s true – I mean proper lighting can make a world of difference. Try utilizing natural light as much as possible. during the day and incorporate adjustable lamps for evenings. This not only enhances productivity but also adds warmth to the living space.
6. Personalizing the Space
Yes, functionality is crucial. But do not forget that’s your own space, and it definitely needs your unique touches. Initially, the thought of blending work and personal space appears overwhelming. Anyway, with thoughtful design, it’s very possible to carve out a harmonious environment that caters to both. All you need to understand is that you are free to add indoor plants, artwork, wallpapers that promote focus and positivity. Make the workspace uniquely yours.
Conclusion
Eventually, designing a work-from-home setup in your living room is not about a physical change alone, it’s an emotional journey too. With modular designs and a bit of your personal touch, you can make a space that is both useful and comfortable. After all, our homes are where we feel the most at peace, so why not make them good for work as well?
If you have transformed your living space for work, do share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
If you have transformed your living space for work, do share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
