I’m sure we’ve all heard people say, “A cluttered desk is the sign of a busy person”. To this, I say “Nonsense!” A cluttered desk is the sign of an unorganized person. The only time you’ll see my desk scattered with papers is when I’m in the middle of a job and, even then, it’s more like a temporary, organized clutter with a purpose.
When I decided to convert the TV room into a home office, I didn’t want it to have the same business feel as my desk at the accounting office. That one is organized with the essentials for an administrative assistant (computer, calculator, trays for various files, stapler and basic tools used constantly within easy reach, a phone, notepad, and big cup of coffee. Plus there’s always room for a family photo).
I wanted my home office to maintain a warm feeling so incorporated ideas that worked with the space. Other than the splash of bright flowers I like to add now and then, my space is very neutral in colours. This is because I work under florescent lights in a bright office most of the day so coming home a toned down space is calming for my mind and spirit.
Here are some ideas to help you organize your space:
Keep only the essentials on your desk top.
In my case, I have a laptop, desk lamp, note pad and pen for jotting side thoughts. You may want to keep a prop or photo on your desk that relates to your writing topic. I usually like to have a vase of flowers or potted plant just because it brightens my space and makes me happy.
Keep reference material and supplies offsite but close at hand.
Do you really need a whole mug full of pens on the desk? How many do you use at once? Is it necessary to have your dictionary, thesaurus and reference books all piled up on the corner?
A shelf or cabinet within easy reach allows you to access all of the necessary items without them cluttering up your workspace.
A quality chair is a must.
You can spend hours sitting at the desk so make sure you have a chair that is comfortable on the legs and back.
When I decided to convert the TV room into a home office, I didn’t want it to have the same business feel as my desk at the accounting office. That one is organized with the essentials for an administrative assistant (computer, calculator, trays for various files, stapler and basic tools used constantly within easy reach, a phone, notepad, and big cup of coffee. Plus there’s always room for a family photo).
I wanted my home office to maintain a warm feeling so incorporated ideas that worked with the space. Other than the splash of bright flowers I like to add now and then, my space is very neutral in colours. This is because I work under florescent lights in a bright office most of the day so coming home a toned down space is calming for my mind and spirit.
Here are some ideas to help you organize your space:
Keep only the essentials on your desk top.
In my case, I have a laptop, desk lamp, note pad and pen for jotting side thoughts. You may want to keep a prop or photo on your desk that relates to your writing topic. I usually like to have a vase of flowers or potted plant just because it brightens my space and makes me happy.
Keep reference material and supplies offsite but close at hand.
Do you really need a whole mug full of pens on the desk? How many do you use at once? Is it necessary to have your dictionary, thesaurus and reference books all piled up on the corner?
A shelf or cabinet within easy reach allows you to access all of the necessary items without them cluttering up your workspace.
A quality chair is a must.
You can spend hours sitting at the desk so make sure you have a chair that is comfortable on the legs and back.
Use baskets
Baskets are a great way to add décor while storing your paper, mail, or supplies.
Baskets are a great way to add décor while storing your paper, mail, or supplies.
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Create a Comfy Corner
Create a comfortable space where you can curl up with your manuscript or research material. After working at the office all day, I don’t really want to come home and sit at another desk so instead, I’ll take a cup of tea or glass of wine and curl up in the big armchair. A cozy fire makes this my favourite place on a cold evening.
Lighting
Good lighting is important when reading, writing or performing any task that can strain the eyes. Make sure your space has good lighting for working, with the option of toning it down for a more relaxing atmosphere.
Create a comfortable space where you can curl up with your manuscript or research material. After working at the office all day, I don’t really want to come home and sit at another desk so instead, I’ll take a cup of tea or glass of wine and curl up in the big armchair. A cozy fire makes this my favourite place on a cold evening.
Lighting
Good lighting is important when reading, writing or performing any task that can strain the eyes. Make sure your space has good lighting for working, with the option of toning it down for a more relaxing atmosphere.
Views from one of my favourite writing getaway locations. I love Vancouver Island :)
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