Creating Your Ultimate Home Office: Transform Your Space into a Productivity Powerhouse
In today's world the hybrid set up is now part of the norm. Let's work out how to leverage it so you, your team and your business can reap the full benefits. To start with, we'll have a look at your personal set up and how it can be optimised.
First up - a disclaimer.
I'm not a fan of recruiters working from home.
I know it's an unpopular opinion but in the recruitment world - activity, energy and fast paced collaboration are critical. These are more easily achieved in person.
Face to face, not face to screen.
I've been fortunate to work with several agencies this year.
Every single time I've visited an office on a 'wfh' day, there's no energy in the office. It's flat and misses all the quips, banter and micro interactions that make an office buzz.
In short, there's no energy.
That being said, I'm a realist.
In today's world the hybrid set up is now part of the norm.
Let's leverage it so you, your team and your business can reap the full benefits.
To start with, we'll have a look at your personal set up and how it can be optimised.
How to Set Up Your Home Office
You've probably enjoyed the perks of working from home over the past few years: the blissful 5-second commute, the freedom of attending meetings in track pants, and best of all, not having to guard your snacks in the communal fridge.
There's definitely benefits to be had.
But here’s the catch—working from home can quickly become a productivity nightmare if you don’t have the right setup.
Your space should be more than just a cozy corner; it needs to be a zone where you can focus, stay organized and hear yourself think without constant interruptions.
Let’s be honest, working from bed might seem like a dream at first, but it doesn’t take long before it becomes a backache waiting to happen.
Now’s the perfect time to rethink your home office setup.
Even if you’re only working from home a couple of days a week, creating a productive workspace can give you more time to do what you want instead of being stuck in traffic.
Here’s how to transform your space into a productivity sanctuary:
1. Choose Your Location Wisely
If a spare room isn’t an option, get creative.
Your garage might just be the easiest spot to carve out some office space. Or, think smaller—convert a wardrobe into an office nook, or install a shelf at stand-up desk height.
In larger spaces, a room divider can signal to the family that it’s work time, not playtime.
Tight on space indoors? Consider adding a small cabin or outdoor office pod.
2. Invest in Comfort
One of the joys of working from home is the luxury of going to “the office” in your socks—or even barefoot.
The comfort of your floor coverings can make all the difference.
If you’re on a budget, a large rug will do the trick. For garage conversions, consider purpose-made garage carpet to turn that concrete box into a cozy, multi-purpose room.
3. Brighten with Mirrors
Home offices often get stuck in the coldest, darkest room of the house.
The quickest way to brighten up that space?
Mirrors.
They bounce light around, making any room feel larger and more inviting. Tall, skinny mirrors are ideal as they fit snugly into those narrow spaces between doors and cupboards.
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4. Bring the Outdoors In
No zen-den is complete without a touch of greenery.
And I’m talking real plants, not plastic.
Head to your local garden centre to find sturdy plants that can thrive in your office’s conditions. Plants clean the air—a must if you’re spending hours in the same room.
If space is tight, consider hanging a plant from the ceiling. And for a bonus? Place it next to a mirror to double the green.
5. Add a Touch of Luxury
Want to elevate your home office game?
Consider a mini-fridge, music, and a kettle.
Picture this: instead of being 10 metres from your fridge, you’re now just one metre away.
Instead of filling it with chocolate and fast food, fill it with healthy snacks like chia pudding or bircher muesli to keep you fueled throughout the day.
A kettle is also essential—no more risking your focus by leaving your zen-den to refill your tea.
Bonus tip: Many people find background music boosts productivity and working from home means you’re in charge of what you hear.
If you aren't aware of the power of 40 hz focus then add this to your playlist.
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6. End the Day with a Clean Slate
If there’s one rule to follow in your home office, it’s this: tidy your desk every night.
No exceptions.
It’s a small habit that can have a big impact on your mindset.
Waking up to a clean desk is like starting your day with a green light, rather than the frustration of being cut off in traffic.
This one step can help set the tone for a positive, productive day.