Study
Work the desk Try to keep as little as possible on your desk, so you can work on it rather than use it as a surface to store office supplies! Having a clear space allows you to spread out for any reading, writing or research you may be doing. It’s also important ergonomically, as your elbow should be able to rest on the desk with your arm out straight to the computer so as to reduce the chance of repetitive strain injury. If you have to use the desktop as storage for stationery, box files or in and out trays, then keep everything to one side or in the corner. Think of a semi-circle when you’re placing items on the desk: those closest to you are the ones you need most often. Keep the things you use less often further out. For these, think out and up: use the outer extremities of the desk, the shelves up above, and cabinets to the right and left, rather than the desk surface itself.
Home office or study The most important thing with a home office is to make sure that any shelving is of a depth and height to accommodate your biggest files or books. Lever arch files, for example, need shelves 30cm deep and with a minimum clearance of 32cm. Leave a space of at least 50cm between the top of your desk and the underside of the first shelf. This can provide a useful zone for a pinboard, whiteboard or magnetic paint, should you wish to have an area for notes.
Get the light right This tip is one of the most important. Poor lighting causes eye strain and headaches and can have a hugely negative effect on productivity. The best light is natural, so bear this in mind when you’re deciding where to position your desk. Also carefully consider your artificial lighting. A lamp directly above your work on your desk can be a huge help, but watch out for any glare on your computer screen. The colour white can also help, as it will reflect any available brightness and give the impression of more space. This office has ticked all three boxes – natural light, artificial light and white.
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