Home Office Upgrade:

January 2022: With many people now working from home indefinitely, spring is a good time to re-evaluate the home workspace, upgrading makeshift areas to more permanent set-ups and breathing new life into these all-important zones. A well-curated home office has numerous benefits, from increasing productivity to maintaining good physical and mental wellbeing. Habitat’s latest offering spans a range of flexible office essentials designed to make the most out of compact and dual-purpose spaces. To offer a helping hand, the design and product development team have shared their tips for transforming workspaces with a few simple updates.

Isolate the workspace

“Opt for a room divider or desk with built-in walls to carve out a designated area for work. Isolating the workspace in this way evokes an element of seclusion which encourages focus and concentration. These clear physical boundaries also help mentally separate office and living areas, meaning it’s easier to leave work behind at the end of the day."
​Rachael Fell, Furniture Buying Manager

Ergonomic comfort

Habitat Beck Multi Coloured Chair, £95Habitat Moon Chair

Habitat Alma High Back Ergonomic Office Chair, £135

“One of the easiest ways to instantly improve a workspace is by swapping out a dining chair for an ergonomic office chair. When many spend more than eight hours a day working from a desk, these designs offer the cushioning and support needed in a range of trend-led styles to fit with any interior scheme. Our Alma chair prioritises comfort, featuring a padded high-back and headrest, and a lock, tilt and swivel mechanism which allows for maximum movement.”
​Rachael Fell, Furniture Buying Manager

Invest in flexible furniture

“Home working shows no sign of abating, so as a design studio we continue to put emphasis on products that support flexible living. This desk unit is designed and built to increase storage solutions whilst being adaptable to different home office needs. The unique swivel mechanism allows for a multitude of positions: the 'L' shaped desk can zone a space or make the most of unused corners, and it can also extend flat against a wall.”
​Ben Stanton, Designer

Find the right lighting

Habitat Citrine Marble & Brass Wall Light, £40Habitat Matte Black Tall Ceramic Table Lamp, £70

Habitat Mopsa Clip Lamp, £15Habitat Loft Industrial Clamp Light, £20

Habitat Loft Living Tripod Table Lamp, £40

“Any work from home set-up calls for good lighting, and there is a vast array of options out there. Adjustable desk lamps can be bent and twisted to shine a light where it’s needed most, ideal for reading and fine detail tasks. Meanwhile clamp designs can be attached to shelving over desks to maximise valuable table space. Our loft clamp light features a matt charcoal cone and exposed filament bulb, great for those who prefer industrial, urban interiors.”
​Anna Cross, Home Living Buying Manager

Make the most of a bedroom office

"For hybrid spaces like a bedroom office, consider the placement of the desk. Face it towards a window or corner of the room if space allows to help compartmentalise the work area and keep bedroom cues out of sight. If a bed is visible in video calls, consider white or neutral bedding to create a simple, non distracting background. Our Fresh Vintage scallop bedding set in crisp white makes an ideal backdrop, defined by its unique curved edge in a bright yellow hue.”
​Rachael Fell, Furniture Buying Manager

Reduce stress

Habitat Lidded Candle - Amberwood and Musk, £11

Habitat Citrine Medium Faux Floral, £35Habitat Citrine Large Succulent, £10

“Studies have shown that greenery can alleviate stress, and adding just one small plant to the desk will have a calming effect on the space. Scenting the air with candles or diffusers is also a great mood booster; soothing notes of lavender are best for relaxation whilst invigorating citrus scents will sharpen focus.”
​Anna Cross, Home Living Buying Manager