Lately more and more people are working from home. Hands up from my fellow parents who agree--navigating a daunting home life where we’re juggling the 9-to-5, kids, and teaching can be exhausting. We owe it to ourselves to create ways within our spaces to maximize productivity, ignite creativity and (hopefully) have a little fun. Who’s with me?!
Joyful Space Tip #1: Start Painting
Let’s get started on your space. One of the most effective ways to dramatically change the mood of any space is to change the colors. Your choice of home office paint colors can have a huge impact on how you get stuff done and get those ideas you (and your team) need?
Color: Think Neutral
My favorite non-distracting colors include neutrals, blues, and greens. Research suggests that green is effective for concentration so consider Benjamin Moore’s Guilford Green HC-116 or High Park 467. Benjamin Moore favorites for light blues for home offices include Blue Danube 2062-30 and Woodlawn Blue HC-146.
Accent Walls and Lighting
Accent walls and wainscotting can also provide a nice pop of creativity for your space. Brighter, more energizing colors I love include Touch of Pink 2008-70, Banana Yellow 2022-40 and Surf Blue 2056-30.
Lighting also plays a huge role in how your space feels. Balance task and ambient lighting with appealing light temperatures so your office feels comfortable.
Sheen
Don’t forget the impact of sheen on a room. For office spaces a matte or eggshell finish will look best because it reduces glare. For furniture, cabinets, or desks consider a gloss or high-gloss finish to create a nice contrast.
Joyful Space Tip #2: Start Planting
This year has a way of sucking the life out of a lot of things, so one way to combat that is to bring some life into your space (literally). Plants may be the missing link separating you from productivity and joy in your workspace.
Where to start? Instead of picking just any green plant, consider things that are easy to care for and maintain. Consider a low maintenance snake plant, philodendron, african violet or succulent. All have low water and light requirements and are perfect for beginners.
Joyful Space Tip #3: Keep Space for Brainstorming
You never know when inspiration will come, so make sure you have a space to jot down your ideas. This could be as simple as a pin up board, white board or coating one of your walls in chalkboard paint. Whatever your route, leave space for these outlets.
Joyful Space Tip #4: Have Some Fun
This is one I feel is the most important. While setting expectations with your family is important for working from home, it’s important to be realistic. Create spaces where kids can work, engage in learning, or watch a movie alongside you. Create a book nook close by. Have engaging toys like Dimpl from Fat Brain Toys near by for littles. Keep a Dammit Doll in your drawer for when you need to vent some frustration (we sell these in our Flower Shoppe). Make a habit of taking moments to stretch or do yoga with the kids. Create a gallery wall of your kids’ artwork. Whatever fun looks like for you and your family, leave space for it.
More ideas? Searching for more inspiration? Talk to one of our friendly associates today.