While there has been a strong push towards returning to the office recently, more companies than ever have opted instead to allow their employees to work from home or go for a hybrid setup, which combines remote work with onsite work.

As a result, designing a home office that promotes both comfort and productivity is still a major priority for many individuals who work desk jobs. If you happen to be one of those individuals, you’ll be delighted to know that all you need is a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of practicality to transform any corner of your home into a functional workspace that inspires. Here’s how:

Location, Location, Location
Selecting the right location is the first order of business for anyone who wants a productive environment to work in. It’s crucial to choose a spot with minimal distractions, gets an ample amount of natural light, and is well-ventilated.

Repurposing an underutilized nook is always a good idea; if space is particularly tight, though, you may have to set your home office up in the corner of a room that doesn’t receive much foot traffic. The idea here, ultimately, is to create a designated area where you can mentally separate your work from leisure.

Choose Furniture that Works as Hard as You Do
For people who do most of their work on computers, a good desk and chair is of paramount importance. Prioritize ergonomics over looks here: your chair should be adequately supportive, encouraging proper posture and reducing the strain on your back. It’s also best to opt for a desk that’s the right height–your elbows should sit at a right angle when you’re seated and they’re resting on its surface. Going for a height-adjustable option is a good idea if you choose a chair that’s static and can’t be adjusted.

Alternatively, you may want to opt for a standing desk, which will allow you to work while standing and prevent the harmful effects of sitting for long periods of time. Another worthy addition to your desk is a monitor riser which can help lift your screen to the perfect eye level, preventing you from straining your neck.

Create Meaningful Zones to Transition Between Work and Rest
One of the best things that you can do for yourself when working from home is to give yourself time to breathe and relax between tasks. It’s healthier: breaks help prevent burnout, and you’ll find yourself more focused when it’s time to get back to the daily grind.

You can divide your space into areas for focused work, brainstorming, and relaxation. Physical separators such as shelves or plants can help visually distinguish between zones, as do certain pieces of furniture. For instance, you may want to invest in leather chairs from Stickley for a cozy reading nook by a window.

Choose from their collection of handsome leather chairs, such as the Ritz Chair which comes with a matching ottoman, or the cozy Melbourne Chair.

With these ideas in mind, your home office can transform into a hub of productivity and comfort, seamlessly integrating work into your daily life while preserving your sense of home.