Telecommuting from rental apartments has become rather common in numerous industries. You’ll discover the associated benefits are undeniable. For instance, it allows for freedom and makes your life easier.
However, if you’re like most people, you probably haven’t designated office space in your apartment. Sure, you could always sit with your laptop on the couch and spread your files on the coffee table.
However, the impermanent workspace could hinder your work production. Consider setting up your space using these effective solutions.
Space
The first thing you must consider is the room in which you’ll work. As a telecommuter, you must set aside a defined space to help you attain the right mind frame for your work and separate professional from leisure time.
Furthermore, a dedicated space sends a message to other household members that you’re working. However, you don’t have to give up a whole room or rent a bigger living space.
You could either convert an unused closet or simply set up in a tranquil corner of the apartment. If you plan to telecommute full-time, you’ll spend as much time in the home office as you do the rest of the home.
Therefore, avoid treating your space as second-class accommodation. Instead, give it the deserving importance. An important consideration when designating space is ensuring you can close the door on your home office and leave when you aren’t working.
Lighting
Good lighting is vital. Ideally, your space should have as much natural light as possible. A window will help enhance the lighting in your space. Enjoying light from a door or window could make a considerable difference in how you feel after an 8-hour workday.
Ensure there’s sufficient lighting during cloudy days as well. If daylight isn’t available, a blend of task and general lighting will be necessary. A premium task light will be necessary for cloudy days or late nights.
If you plan to set up in the basement or in an area without windows, consider daylight-replicating sources of light that will offer full-spectrum, energy-efficient lighting. Numerous ergonomic task-lighting fixtures allow you to control the light amount.
The most efficient lighting brings out the best quality of the illuminated colors. Avoid placing overhead lighting directly over computer screens to prevent glare. You should also avoid placing a computer screen directly in front of a light source. This will result in eyestrain.
Privacy
Nobody can work efficiently in an area of interruptions or noise. When planning your office space, ensure it allows a degree of privacy from nearby activities. While headphones may function to isolate some sounds, no one wants to wear them constantly.
You can install portable screens to shield your work area from surrounding activities. Alternatively, divider walls that also function as bookcases will split the area and offer enhanced storage solutions.
To help in producing the needed quiet atmosphere for work and concentration, some white noise can prove beneficial. Low fans and air filters function at a quiet speed to muffle other sounds. If a door isn’t available or practical, consider adding signage.
Desk Options
Your welfare, safety, and health are vital. Consequently, the items you select must have ergonomic designs to promote your well-being and health.
You’ll discover that Chair manufacturers have made considerable improvements in comfort and adjustability for computer users.
Some of the options to consider include a stand-up desk if you wish to decrease the amount of time sitting while working.
For more information on how to set up your apartment for telecommuting, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a comment.
Image: Telecommuting
