We’re all still adapting to our new working lives. Some love working from home. Some like a 50/50 split of home and workplace and some can’t wait to be back in the office full-time with their colleagues!
Whether you’re still working from home or in your newly adapted workplace, it’s really important that we feel motivated by our surroundings, especially during challenging times.
So where do you start when creating a motivating office space?
There’s ONE key element that’s probably the most underestimated!…
The last few months have had a huge psychological effect on our minds and bodies, and our mental health is something we’ll need to prioritize even more when our sunlight exposure gets less and less over the Winter months.
But can you guess what the home decorating secret is to improving your mood? It’s…..
Here’s a hint…
Here are 5 fun facts about colour:
Colour is noticed by the brain before anything else and it is felt, not thought
Paint colours can help HEAL OUR BODIES! Red rooms can often help depressed people regain vigor and green can help calm an anxious person
Green is also linked to growth of power e.g money, military, banking and finance
Blue has a very calming effect on the mind and is the colour of reason
Black accents in a room can add energy to sophistication
Now not every colour is suited for painting on walls but sometimes a hint of the right colour in a piece of artwork or a décor piece here and there is all it takes to boost our day!
Space Planning
We’re living in a virtual world so now more than ever it should be easy for us to work in an uncluttered, paperless office!
Tidy desk, tidy mind! 😉
Keep the room (and your mind) as clean and simple as possible!
Your basic office furniture and decor checklist is…
One sleek but practical desk
Position your desk to face a window where possible. Getting vitamin D into our bodies helps to keep our energy lifted throughout the day. (I also take Vitamin D drops every day because apparently we’re all deficient in Canada!)
One stylish and comfortable office chair
HERE’S one of my faves! (p.s. ergonomics are really important when you’re sat at your desk for hours a day. Keep an eye out for a chair with a tall back, for upper back support, good lumbar support, arm rests and is height adjustable. And of course, remember to get up and walk around every 30 minutes!)
One contrasting storage shelf or cabinet
Have a little fun! Your desk and shelving don’t always have to match.
One rejuvenation area
A comfortable armchair, loveseat or floor pouf will create a cozy corner where you can get rejuvenated and switch up your sitting position and workspace. Another healthy trick for our brains!
One vibrant floor or desk plant
We already know that colour can heal our bodies and greens keep us calm and so do plants! I shared my top 5 low-maintenance plants, with added health benefits, on an Instagram HERE.
One statement ceiling light and/or desk/floor lamp
Great lighting is another key element to a motivating office space. Particularly if your room faces North/North-West.
One inspiring piece of artwork
It could be your favourite quote printed in a large frame or a scenic piece that reminds you of a great vacation!
One warming area rug
For those of us with hardwood/vinyl/laminate/concrete floors
Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous, try an accent ceiling or colourful interior door to add a bit of bold contrast to your office!
Colourful Interior Doors