Leading Sydney Property Stylist shares her top 5 tips to create a healthy and productive at-home workspace

Justine Wilson, Property Stylist and founder of Vault Interiors, shares her top tips for setting up healthy and productive workstations at home. With over 15 years’ experience in styling homes and creating at-home office spaces, usually to add value to a property for sale, today she is sharing her advice for many Australians who are now working from home.

“At a time when many of us are self-isolating or setting up to work from home, it’s important to ensure you create a dedicated space when working from home, especially when it is for long periods of time. For your overall wellbeing, I find having a dedicated space allows me to switch on and off, and not work while eating dinner or into the night!” says Justine.

1. Clear out the area first: A clear space is a clear mind, which is exactly what you want your COVID-19 at home office to be. If you don’t have a spare room to convert, make sure the space you choose is dedicated to working only. Doing this will help you to go from work mode into a home mode while helping to remove distractions and maintain concentration.
2. Quality over quantity: If you haven’t already, invest in functional furniture for storage; flat-pack furniture is great because you can customise the design for a more tailored, designer look. Use the furniture to hide cords and printers – it’ll maximise space and keep the office organised and de-cluttered. Plus, an ergonomic chair – it’s not just about looks!
3. Lighting is key: Good task lighting is essential, consider placing the desk under the window, the natural light and bright outlook will make sitting at a desk less arduous. If this isn’t possible add mirrors and desk lights. It might be difficult to get an electrician to come out to install new lights at the moment and hopefully this is just a temporary solution.
4. Breathe some life in: Introduce plant life, it not only looks green and lush, but it can add fragrance and improve air quality in the home. Greenery has been widely reported to enhance mood, productivity and creativity.
5. Personalise it: Just as you would at your office desk space, add photos, personal trinkets and anything that inspires you. A large pinboard can be used for concept images, notes and as ever-changing artwork to suit your current style and theme of your space.

“Remember, this won’t be forever, but having an inviting space to work, will make the situation we’re all faced with a little better. Plus, don’t forget to dedicate time to get up and move!” adds Justine.

www.vaultinteriors.com.au