Is your office working for you?
Do you avoid using your home office because it's piled with mountains of paper clutter, it doesn't have enough desktop space or it becomes a drop zone for everyone else's stuff? If so, it's time to reorganize and create your dream office.
The first step is taking a look at what is working well and where things are getting out of control.
What is your work style?
If it is a shared office space, your work style preferences may be different. Some people prefer to have a spotless desktop and file everything away in drawers. Others function best when they can visually see their papers and files and have all of their supplies at their fingertips. Fortunately, there is a way to accommodate both styles in the same work area.
For "everything put away" types
Plan for plenty of hanging files in drawers
Use drawers and drawer dividers to store office supplies
Scan documents and store them on your computer
Use cord holders or run cords through the back of your desk to reduce clutter
For "everything out" types
Use desk top sorters or install wall hanging shelves to sort paperwork
Use stacked paper sorters for incoming papers, to-do's, and to-file paperwork
Use magazine holders to organize notebooks, files and magazines.
Use attractive file boxes and label them for easy access, then store them in a bookcase for a streamlined look
Add a bookcase for extra file storage
Office makeover
I recently worked with a client whose home office was in their laundry room. She had a built-in desk that had very little storage space, so we transformed the adjacent closet to provide ample storage for office supplies and files. The closet also does double duty as a storage space for their ironing board!
Here's the "before" picture...
And...here is the "after" picture!
These beautiful Elfa Decor shelves from The Container Store worked great. We had to work around a utility box that my client needed to access from time to time and this system allows her to remove and adjust shelves as needed.
Magazine holders and paper sorters work well for most workstyles. Because they are stackable, they don't take up much desktop space and labels make it easy to quickly find what you need. You can find them in several styles to match your decor. The Bigso collection below can be found at The Container Store.
The Container Store's Bigso Hanging File Box is a great solution for small office spaces.
What is one of the most important things you should have in your office?
Your best coworker may be a plant. According to a study by Nursery and Garden Industry Australia, significant reductions in stress were recorded where plants were apart of the office environment. Plants are hard workers. They purify the air, increase creativity and productivity. The study shows that simply adding one plant can significantly affect a person's well-being and performance.
Don't forget about lighting.
Having good lighting is essential to prevent eye strain and boost your productivity. It also makes for a comfortable and inviting environment.
Looking for more home office storage and design ideas?
Take a look at the home office images on my Home Office board on Pinterest.
A great home office is a space that does all the work for you.
Take the time to organize your office and include storage systems that make your work more effortless and efficient. Mix in art, books, plants and colors that reflect your personality, hobbies and interests. Make your home office a place that motivates and inspires you!
Happy Organizing!
Kay