When the pandemic hit and millions started working from home, having a home office practically became a necessity.
Suddenly, moms and dads needed a room in the house they could use for work and Zoom meetings—without constant interruptions from the kids and pets.
And although most people expected this home office trend to dissipate as people returned to the office, that doesn’t seem to be happening.
In fact, even though many business are allowing (and even encouraging) employees to work from the office now, 33% are still “always” working from home as of mid-October. Add to that the 25% who are “sometimes” working from home, and you have almost half the American workforce in need of a home office of some sort.
In light of this new trend, many families are creating a permanent office space in their homes. Some are devoting an entire room to their home office while others are simply designating a corner of the living room.
But no matter how big or small the work space, home office trends are certainly something to pay attention to.
We’ve gathered some of the most popular and interesting home office trends that are sure to continue into 2021. Ready for some home office inspiration?
1. Give yourself an inspiring view.
It’s no secret that San Diego has some breathtaking views. Rugged mountains, rolling hills, clear beaches—wherever you are, take advantage of the view by placing your home office desk in front of a window.
There’s nothing quite like looking up from your work to see the beauty of nature right outside your window.
2. Make room for the family.
If your kids are still doing online school at home and need more of your attention, this setup is perfect for you. No more walking back and forth between rooms whenever your child has a math question.
Or, if you need a little more distance between you and the kids, try setting up your desk on the other side of the room.
This allows you to easily walk over and help your child without losing a sense of having your own space.
3. Create a professional home office to meet with clients in person.
If you need to meet with clients in person, why not revamp a room in your home? Adding some simple pieces of furniture gives the room the feel a professional office without the huge monthly expense of renting an office space.
And the best part is, you don’t need much to convert your guest room or living room into a home office. A few pieces of well-chosen décor are enough to create a modern professional look.
4. Use an adjustable standing desk for a healthier home office.
It’s true that standing lets you burn a few more calories than sitting down. But the real health benefit is that standing can help ease back pain as well as better regulate your blood sugar levels.
The great thing about adjustable standing desks is that, if you don’t love standing all day, you don’t have to! Most adjustable desks have a built-in remote so you can go back and forth between sitting and standing.
If you don’t feel like getting rid of your current sitting desk, there are other options. Consider using an adjustable computer stand when you feel like standing.
If alternating between sitting and standing can do wonders for your posture, why not try it out?
5. Use cabinets and drawers to hide your messy papers.
Love may cover a multitude of sins, but cabinets cover a multitude of messy papers.
Some people hate the mess that comes with a home office. But using drawers and cabinets can keep that mess out of sight, allowing your workspace to stay clean and organized.
Try clearing your desk at the end of each work day to help minimize distractions and increase your focus.
6. Use plenty of white for a clean look.
There’s something about a white home office that leaves you feeling fresh and focused. Using lots of white reflects the light, making your office space seem more open and giving it a modern feel.
Plus, finding décor to accent the room with splashes of color is much easier when your main color is white.
7. Fill your home office with plenty of greenery.
Plants never fail to invigorate a room. They not only help clean the air and give off oxygen, but scientific research shows they can also help reduce stress and increase productivity.
And if you’re scared your brown thumb won’t give your plants a fighting chance, try decorating with succulents, which need minimal care.
Eager to try one of these home office trends? Tell us which ones in the comments below!