As we are all asked to stay home as much as possible, this means our interior space is getting a lot more attention these days. Since we don’t know how long it will take to go back to our normal routines, now is the time to accommodate our space to make it comfortable and enjoyable while we are spending more time inside.

This means also making sure we have room to be creative and productive and get our work done. As you might have enjoyed working from your couch or bed the first few days, you probably realized by now this isn’t a long-term solution. We are excited to share some tips with you on how to make your home office not only practical and productive but also pleasant and enjoyable.

The Dawn Elise Interiors team has been enjoying working from home as we made some adjustments to our offices as well.

We know this is a difficult time for everyone, so let’s start it on a bright note by taking a second to look at the positive aspects of working from home:

• There is no commute to work
• We can eat home cooked meals for lunch
• We can walk around the neighborhood for breaks
• We get to work alongside our pets

Now let’s make sure your space is up for the challenge and is creating the perfect conditions to keep up with your workflow.Of course, working from home isn’t always that easy and can come with its fair share of challenges. The good news? These interior design tips can help you fix these problems.

CONCERN #1: I can’t seem to focus as much as I am used to at work.

Our mind isn’t used to associating our home with working. There is a psychological effect of being home and just wanting to check out of our work.

SOLUTION: Setting up a space in your house that is reserved only for you to work

You don’t need to have an entire room dedicated to your home office. If you don’t have the capacity to do that, it is totally ok but even if it is a small space, make sure to dedicate it only for working. Train your mind to understand the difference between the time you are dedicating to work and the time you are doing something else.

Choose a space that is in a low traffic area of your house and with few distractions. If you don’t live by yourself, make sure to not only settle in a quiet space but also be very clear to the other members of your household about your expectations while you are working.

When orienting your office, think about your backdrop. As you might be getting on camera for conference calls, make sure that your camera faces a neutral spot that isn’t distracting for your coworkers.

CONCERN #2: I feel more productive and creative at the office.

By now you might be missing the quiet, vibrant energy of having other people next to you that are working and focusing instead of having your kids asking for snacks every 30 minutes or maybe the dogs begging to go outside.

SOLUTION: Use interior design to spike up your creativity & productivity

Yes, the way your space is designed will have a huge impact on your creativity and results. Your environment influences you and your general energy more than you may think.

Here are some tips:

Tip #1: Choose the right colors:

Do you need to add more focus or more creativity in your work day? The colors you will pick for your space can have an influence on that.

Pale and soft colors are considering more calming and better for concentration. Calming colors such as blue, green, grey, tan and purple will help reduce stress and keep you focused.

Bright colors such as yellow and shades of reds will be great for creativity.

Rest assure, this doesn’t mean you have to paints all your walls around your office starting tomorrow in order to be productive. If you don’t feel like painting, think of adding colors from different objects such as a chair, blankets, pillows or picture frames.

Tip #2: Orient your desk towards natural light

Natural light has such a big impact on how awake or tired we feel, on our productivity and our creativity. As much as possible, invite natural lighting into your space. If you don’t have a specific room for your office, go around your house and try different angles and spots where the light enters and install your office accordingly.

Tip #3: Add Plants

Greenery and plants have such a big role in our productivity and our state of mind. Make sure to add some of your favorite plants by your desk.

Tip #4: Less is more

Whatever you decide on doing, make sure to keep you space clutter-free. An open, clean, simple space and desk will help you to have a clearer mind.

Concern #3: Do I really want a space in my home that reminds me of work all the time?

Working from home might not be a long-term solution for you or you might be worried that this new work office is going to remind you of work all the time. Your home-office doesn’t have to bring you anxiety. Far from it.

SOLUTION: Make it personal & your new happy place

The goal is not to have your regular work office in your house but to bring a more adapted and personalized version of your office at home to make it even more enjoyable.

This is your happy place. Even if you are planning on going back to your regular office once you can, this is a perfect occasion to create a space for you that sparks creativity. This can be your space to journal, write, meditate, etc.

Do you like to surf and go to the beach? Bring the ocean vibe to your space.

Do you like to garden and be outdoor? Invite Spring with fresh flowers, gardening pictures, outdoor tools, etc.

Do you like to travel? Hang pictures of your favorite places or a big world map.

Do you like photography? Add shelves where you showcase your collection of cameras.

If you are you having a hard time transforming your space to accommodate to your new work routine, contact us now, the Dawn Elise Interiors team is looking forward to hear from you and support you with your interior design project!