These days, many situations require a home office setup. In the case of startups, an entrepreneur may use a part of the home to start their business. There are also parents who choose to work from home (WFH) to spend more time with the kids.
In some companies, workers are allowed to work from home. The company may be shifting to a remote business model, or offers WFH as an option and as part of their flexible work arrangements. There may also be employees who have medical conditions, are under isolation, or cannot physically come to the office for other reasons.
Whatever the case may be, it is not a surprise why a more significant number of people are now taking their work at home. Perhaps you are one of them.
You may have read articles about how to improve your productivity. Now, let our experts on
decorative concrete coatings share some tips on how to make your immediate environment more conducive to working. See their recommendations on how to pick shades, color themes, and more.
Determine the primary purpose of your office
Think hard and be specific. What are some of your main tasks, responsibilities, and the types of projects you plan on working on in this space?
It could be writing, editing videos, reviewing a project, or making calls. If you have difficulty, make an initial list of all the activities you do or plan on accomplishing. Later on, you can limit it to a maximum of five tasks, the five main ones.
How you answer this question can determine what types of colors or decorative paint finishes work best. For instance, go for lighter shades if you are more inclined to do work surrounded by lots of natural light. The natural light from the sun, coupled with bright paint colors, can make the space appear lofty and airy ? great for morning tasks.
Salespeople are typically more results-driven as their earnings are commission-based. They need a space that encourages them to work faster and with passion. Reds are ideal for such scenarios as the intense hue evokes a sense of urgency.
Consider your working style
What is your ideal working space? Do you prefer an area that looks clean and free of clutter? Or do you work better if all your materials are within arm?s reach, even if it looks messy to others?
Neutral colors are best suited for people who like a more minimalist style. The soft colors allow them to concentrate and focus. Adding an indoor plant or two creates a soothing environment ideal for thinking.
On the other hand, individuals who come up with their best ideas when surrounded by stimuli are better off working in a space that features a lot of bold colors. Wall colors that feature large prints can make the area look fun and inspiring in a different way.
Think about the other residents
The tips discussed so far are great if you live alone or have a space exclusive for business tasks. But what if your home office is connected to other rooms, and there are no walls or partitions that divide the spaces? How can you design your workspace if it doubles as a play area for kids or connects to a public area, such as the kitchen?
For multi-purpose areas, you need to consider the other activities that take place inside the same space. If you have kids, white, off-white, cream, or light neutral shades are recommended. Other than making the area look bright and spacious, they are versatile and work well with a variety of colors.
Add a few colorful decorations to make the room come alive. Toys tend to be colorful as well. When added to the room, the vibrant hues of your kid?s playthings can give the space character without looking out of place.
Use sightlines
In apartments or places where space is limited, you can expect to find areas that flow into others. For instance, there may be no barrier between the living and dining room areas. With such situations, it may be worth considering sightlines before choosing a paint color.
Sightlines refer to what is visible from where you stand. By taking sightlines into account, rooms appear to flow better.
Create a consistent look by using a single color theme in spaces that fall within the sightline. Having a different color scheme in each can have a jarring effect on the senses. Do it if you are going for an eclectic, wacky, or a unique look ? otherwise stick to one.
Create a gallery wall
Unlike cubicles or formal workspaces inside offices, the home office is your space. So why not make it your own? Fill it with elements that make you feel alive and happy.
Artists can reserve a wall for their paintings or artwork. Photographers can use it to showcase their best photos. Adults can also use it as a vertical album, featuring photos of their family and friends.
When it comes to paint, choose a color that sets the tone, yet makes the pieces stand out. The paint should make you or your guests notice and experience the elements on the wall.
For black and white photos or artworks, set them against a white or cream matting. You can then choose paints with a gray or charcoal hue to ?lift? the framed artwork or photos from the wall.
It is also worth considering flat or matte paint when painting the walls. Because there is no sheen, you don?t need to worry about light bouncing off the walls and taking the focus away from the elements displayed on it.
Lastly, work with colors that work for you. Fads may come and go, but your workspace will be in use for years to come. This is the space where you do your best work, so choose paint colors that make you productive.
If you need more ideas on what colors to use for your home office, contact a reputable interior design or fit-out company. They can work with you and help you brainstorm to create a space that is uniquely yours.
AUTHOR BIO
Ralph El Eid is the Business Development Manager at COLORTEK – Wall & Floor Fashion. EQUIPAINT is the franchise owner of COLORTEK in Dubai (UAE) and Doha (Qatar); an international paints manufacturer specializing in the widest range of decorative paints and seamless concrete & resin flooring, with a unique showroom concept, and thus an ideal destination for homeowners, consultants, architects, interior designers and paint applicators.
