How to set up a home workspace

With the rise of remote work and increasing international mobility, creating a home workspace has become a priority for many people, including expatriates. How can you transform part of your home—even a temporary one—into a functional, ergonomic, and pleasant work area?

Choosing the right location for your desk

One of the first challenges when setting up a home office is finding the right spot. This decision should take into account the characteristics of the home, the specific work needs, and personal constraints.

Every home offers different possibilities. In a spacious apartment, it may be possible to dedicate an entire room to work, creating a clear separation between personal and professional life. In smaller homes, however, every square meter must be optimized. An unused corner in a bedroom, living room, or even a hallway can be turned into a functional workspace with the right setup.

Essential elements for an ergonomic workspace

An ergonomic setup is key to ensuring comfort, productivity, and well-being when working from home. Poor arrangements can lead to fatigue, muscle pain, or lack of focus. Homat reviews the essential elements to create a proper workspace.

Choosing the right furniture

It all starts with a desk at the right height. Between 70 and 75 cm, the desk allows you to work with your arms bent at a right angle, reducing strain on your shoulders and wrists.

To complement the desk, choose a chair with an adjustable seat and good lumbar support to keep your back and legs properly aligned throughout the workday.

The chair’s height should allow your feet to rest flat on the floor, with your thighs parallel to it. If the available furniture is not adjustable, a footrest can be used to compensate.

Technical setup of the desk

Once the furniture is in place, don’t forget the technical adjustments that complete the workspace, starting with the computer screen(s). To prevent neck pain and long-term discomfort, screens should be positioned at eye level, about 50 to 70 cm away.

If necessary, a screen stand or an articulated arm can help adjust the height. Similarly, the keyboard and mouse should be placed in a way that keeps wrists straight, limiting the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.

Finally, to prevent damaging cables or rolling over them with the office chair, it is advisable to keep the area organized by grouping all cables and connections in one place.

Optimized storage solutions

How can you set up your desk for efficient work? Storage and organization are essential for maintaining a clear and orderly workspace.

A cluttered desk can quickly become a source of stress and distraction. To avoid this, installing wall-mounted shelves helps free up floor space while keeping documents and supplies within easy reach. If your desk has built-in drawers, use them to store personal items.

In smaller spaces, modular solutions such as stackable bins or storage benches can be especially useful. These elements will help keep your workspace tidy—provided you commit to regular organization.

The importance of lighting

To reduce fatigue and increase productivity, optimized lighting is crucial in any ergonomic workspace.

Natural light, when available, is ideal to reduce eye strain and improve mood. Placing the desk near a window is an excellent solution, provided that screen reflections are managed.

If natural light is insufficient or absent, artificial lighting is essential. A directional desk lamp with neutral white light (around 4000 to 5000 Kelvin) is particularly recommended to boost concentration and reduce visual fatigue.

Personalizing your workspace

A home office becomes more enjoyable and motivating when it reflects your personality. Adding inspiring elements, such as photos, artwork, or souvenirs, can boost your sense of well-being. Choosing calming colors or energizing tones, depending on your taste, also helps create the right atmosphere. However, avoid excessive decoration, as it can clutter the space and reduce focus.

Bringing in nature

Adding plants to your workspace offers numerous benefits. Indoor plants such as succulents, pothos, or ferns improve air quality and create a sense of calm. They also help reduce stress and stimulate creativity. Even in small spaces, a small pot on the desk or a hanging plant can be enough to transform the atmosphere.