Today many people are in a work-at-home situation. Most likely, you put together your home office with what you had available to make it work. But if you are working at home permanently, it might be time to take a hard look at your home office setup.

Dedicated workspace

If you have the space convert a spare bedroom into an office, or if you need a shared space, make your office the primary focus of the room. If you are working at home full time, you must have an area primarily dedicated to this purpose.  

Desk

If you are at the kitchen table or any makeshift desk, it is time to look at an actual desk that will fit your workspace. It would help if you also considered an adjustable desk that allows you to raise the desk to work in a standing position. An adjustable desk is especially beneficial for those who have back problems and work at a computer all day.  

If kids are your spouse are also going to use the space, consider a partner desk setup where two people can simultaneously work at the same desk.

New Windows

Everyone enjoys having a nice view from their office. Old, tired windows that obscure your view can make the room look dark and uninviting. Upgrading your windows can make a big difference in your work environment and change the room’s energy.   New windows with expansive panes of glass can let the outside in and provides tons of natural light. It would help if you also considered changing your windows to  impact windows with multiple benefits. In South Florida, protecting your home in the event of a hurricane and now your office is paramount. Plus, there is an added benefit that impact windows significantly reduce distracting outside noise. Impact windows are also a significant deterrent to thieves, who often access the home by breaking a window. Breaking through impact glass is virtually impossible with impact windows. With new windows, you might want to invest in some new landscaping to improve your view. 

Consider who else might use the office

If you have clients or co-workers visiting, you need to consider seating. This could include table space if you have enough room.   Pick your furniture accordingly.  

Desk Chair

Proper support is imperative when selecting a desk chair. Borrowing a chair from the dining area is not the best choice for seating when working long hours at your home office desk. Selecting an ergonomic chair with adjustable height, a 360-degree swivel base, adjustable backrest and armrest, and built-in lumbar support is critical. 

Monitor Placement

No person is the same, so you might have to experience different setups for your monitor and keyboard. Ideally, everything should be set up, so your spine remains in a neutral position. The monitor should be at least 20 inches away, and your eyes should be looking slightly down when viewing.   If you wear bifocals, you should tip the screen back so you are not tilting your head to focus. 

Storage

You most likely need office supplies and paperwork storage even in this digital age.   Depending on your needs, you need to provide additional cabinet space, or you can even get plastic bins to store away all your office supplies. This will help you feel more organized and keep your work environment tidy. 

Wires and Cords

Even with wi-fi, you will have power cords and cables to deal with within your home office. Many cord management systems are available, from simple twist ties to more elaborate designs.   Most important is to have cord covers to deal with cords that might be in the path of where someone will walk. You may also need to invest in a wi-fi extender or even a wi-fi mesh system to ensure a strong internet connection. 

Lighting

Good lighting is needed to prevent eye strain that can cause fatigue and headaches. Let in as much natural light as possible. Indirect light is also better as it causes less glare.  

Invest in yourself

Setting up a proper home work setup is an investment in yourself. Not only will your mode improve, and you will be more productive, but you can prevent back problems and headaches that are brought on by things like eye strain.  

Having a great view from your home office is priceless.