Modern office design
Whether you work in an office building or at home, most people have come to realize the importance of working in a visually appealing space.
However, turning your ideas into reality can feel overwhelming. While some designs may look expensive, the truth is you can accomplish a modern look without spending heaps of money. Getting creative with sourcing and mixing pieces will definitely help you achieve your design goals.
Positive effects of designing office space
The spaces where we work influence us more than we realize. Office space can either be a source of inspiration or a drain on motivation. A pleasant and well-designed modern office can:
Help reduce stress and anxiety.
Stimulate creativity and productivity.
Allow for better concentration during difficult tasks and projects.
If you have a small corner at home or a corporate cubicle, it’s possible to tweak and style your space into a more welcoming version without breaking the bank or the company’s rules.
Modern office design tips
Design is a language and a lifestyle, plus the rules can be learned. When in doubt, follow these guidelines:
Open up spaces
If you don’t have a lot of space and think this rule doesn’t apply to you, think again. The presence of clutter is one of the main reasons a space can feel small and give off a stressful vibe. If you can be really selective about the items you keep, you can eliminate the excess and make any space feel immediately larger. Adding a mirror or two will also make a small space seem bigger.
Help minimize disruptive noises
Cushioned furniture, curtains, rugs and pillows are all decorative elements that not only add to the style and warmth of a space but have the ability to dampen noise as well. Certain fabrics are better at absorbing sound than others, so make sure you do your research before making a purchase.
Add nature
Even if you don’t have a garden or balcony, you can still stay close to nature and reap the benefits by incorporating plants into your office space. Breathe some life into your workday with some mood-boosting flora.
Don’t be afraid to spend a little more on statement pieces
It’s essential that design elements with a specific function deliver and excel at that function, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice aesthetics. When it comes to statement pieces in your office space, like a desk or chair, it’s always worth the extra cost to get the nicer version.
Let light in
Let the light flood the space by maximizing windows and adding adjustable lights wherever necessary. While natural light is always preferable, any light will do, especially if you’re dealing with a dark space.
Invest in good, versatile furniture
One of the best investments you can make when furnishing an office is an adjustable desk. It will help you avoid staying completely static during your workday.
If an adjustable desk is out of your price range, there are cheaper options. Standing desks or stands that raise your computer to a standing level are both affordable alternatives that accomplish the same task of getting you out of your chair.
Organization is key
Not only should you do an initial declutter, but you should also optimize organization systems. Drawer organizers and other hidden options are preferable to avoid visual clutter.
Make it look lived-in
While minimalism and organization are great, no one wants to spend their working lives in a sterile space that feels like a catalog. To avoid this, choose pieces of furniture that add warmth and smaller pieces that showcase your personality. Flowers, pictures and decorative knick knacks personalize your modern office so that it feels more welcoming.
How to get started designing a modern office
The process of designing a space is based on planning and practice. Once you decide to take the plunge, follow these steps:
Source inspirational images, and make a mood board of what you’d like your space to look like at the end of the process.
Armed with your inspiration, determine which pieces should stay and which ones should go.
Declutter everything.
Set a budget, and write a prioritized list of items you need to buy.
Buy what you need, and start setting up your space.
Best modern office furniture
Sabine Height Adjustable Standing Desk: available at Wayfair
This is an affordable and well-designed desk that is sold in four neutral colors, so it should be easy to match it to your space.
FEZIBO Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk: available at Amazon
The Fezibo desk offers a more rustic look and feel that will warm up even the coldest office spaces.
SIDUCAL Mobile Stand Up Desk: available at Amazon
For small spaces that won’t accommodate a full-sized desk, this is an affordable and nice-looking option. It’s very compact and has four wheels, which makes moving it around so much easier.
Rimiking Home Office Modern Ergonomic Chair: available at Amazon
Some people believe that you need to choose between comfort and style, but this chair is here to prove that sentiment wrong. It includes all the rotating and adjusting features you’d expect but with an updated, much more modern look.
Flash Furniture High Back Desk Chair: available at Amazon
If you are looking for a more traditional desk chair, this is the one for you. The brown chair with black frame option will warm up any type of office space.
Best modern office decor
Fredericksburg Ivory Ceramic Table Vase: available at Wayfair
It’s no secret that flowers brighten up any space, so having a vase is essential when creating a cozy workspace. This vase adds some texture and graphic elements to your space on its own, but it’s especially great when paired with seasonal blooms.
Landy Encircled Reader Iron Figurine: available at Wayfair
This bookend is a great example of a functional and beautiful piece that can be styled in a multitude of ways. Use it to keep your books in place, or put it on your desk for visual interest.
Salter Yoga Dog Figurine: available at Wayfair
While you need to be strategic about nonfunctional items in your modern office, some fun decor can add personality to any space. This dog figurine adds a bit of whimsy and also serves as a visual reminder to take some deep breaths during your workday.
Best modern office accessories
LEPOWER Metal Desk Lamp: available at Amazon
This attractive, versatile lamp will elevate your office and work as part of the decor when not in use. It can be used as a desk lamp or a clip light.
Sorbus Desk Organizer Set: available at Amazon
A great organization set is a must-have item for any desk. This metallic wire set exudes an understated elegance and keeps clutter to a minimum.
COYMOS Clear Pencil Holder for Desk: available at Amazon
You will never lose your favorite pen with this clear organizer. This option is easy to mix and match with practically any decor, and the four compartments should provide enough space for all of your work essentials.
Ivonne Spinoza is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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