Regardless of the mode of transport, nobody likes commuting — it’s a hassle. Fortunately, many companies are now allowing their employees to work remotely, which means those frustrating, stressful trips into the office are a thing of the past. However, a laptop and a chair do not a home office make. To be able to effectively and efficiently work from home, you need a space that is designed for productivity.

Find a Space

The first thing to consider is where you are going to set up your workspace. You don’t need a lot of space for a home office, but you don’t want to be crushed into a closet, either. There are many no-fee apartments in Manhattan that offer layouts with half-bedrooms. Those layouts work quite well for a home office. Remember that it’s a good idea for your work area to be separate from the main living area of your home. Keep your living space for living and your working space for working — the separation will help you maintain regular hours and enhance productivity.

Let There Be Light

The lighting in your home office is vital. It’s pretty simple really: If your lighting is off, you will constantly be straining your eyes to see your work. This leads to a lack of focus. Also, inadequate lighting can zap the energy right out of you, and good lighting can do just the opposite. It’s wise to avoid harsh overhead lights and go with a floor lamp accented by a nice desk lamp. And always utilize natural light as much as possible. Some people say you shouldn’t have your desk facing a window, but we disagree — we’re all for it. Natural light is invigorating. Use it.

The Desk — The Epicenter of the Home Office

In most home offices, the desk is the centerpiece and the most important furniture purchase you’ll make when designing your workspace. If there’s any place to splurge a bit, this is it. Your desk needs to be functional and aesthetically pleasing or you won’t want to work there. Think of it this way: You will be spending a significant amount of time at this desk — you should love it. Moreover, we recommend purchasing a model that converts to a standing desk. Sitting all day is bad for your back, and having the option to stand and work helps break up the monotony. If you need fresh air, be sure to get out and enjoy a serene walk around your neighborhood, no matter where you live – whether it be Gramercy, Murray Hill, or the Upper East or West Side – a clear mind gets the job done.

The Importance of Comfort

This part is simple: Buy a nice chair. Along with the desk, this is the place to spend your money. Even if you purchase a convertible, standing desk, you will still spend hours seated, and you’re going to want to be comfortable. The last thing you need is for your home office to be an uncomfortable, unwelcoming place that makes you feel miserable.

Distractions and Design

Don’t put a television in your home office. Just don’t do it. It’s tempting, but remember: This is a work space. Having a television in your home office will only serve to distract you from your work. And again — we can’t stress this enough — the key to being productive when working from home is to create an office space that is separated from living space, both physically and in terms of what you do there. It’s also wise to keep the design cohesive. If you’re going modern, stick with that the whole way through. If you’re going traditional, the same goes. Cohesion will help the space feel like a separate, distinct entity. This is your chance to build everything to your exact specifications. So, shoot for the moon.

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