Whether you work downtown or at home, having a drab office can really make time go by slowly. Staring at the same bare walls can also drain your creativity. You spend 40 hours a week in the same office, so you might as well give it some personality. No matter your budget, these tips will help transform your dull space into a productive masterpiece.
1. Get Creative with Seating
Offices need plenty of seating. After all, you never know when your boss or client will make an appearance. Add more seating to make sure everyone is cozy. Ditch the lackluster, hard chairs for something with more personality. Consider brightly colored, upholstered bar stools with backs, for instance. Once you upgrade your seating, your office will become a prime hangout spot.
2. Say Goodbye to Boring Art
Why is all office artwork the same? You don’t need a stereotypical poster to give you motivation. Trade that bland corporate artwork for something a bit more exciting. Choose pieces that reflect your personality. The artwork you display should reflect your authentic self.
3. Accessorize Like Crazy
Showcasing unexpected office decor is a great icebreaker. It’s also a fun way to show off your unique personality. Antique stores and garage sales are great places to find new-to-you accessories that won’t break the bank. The more eclectic and surprising, the better.
4. Pick Up After Yourself
The wastebasket under your desk is there for a reason. It’s easy to let paperwork, post-it notes, and trash take over your office. Make it a point to organize your space at least once a week. Clear away any clutter on your desk and tidy up the floor. If needed, as some storage options to make sure everything has its own place. Tidying up your office is a proven way to boost productivity.
5. Add More Texture
Does your office look boring and sterile? More texture may help. Different textures create more visual interest, and they can give a small room more dimension. Adding pillows, curtains, and rugs in various fabrics is a good starting point. You can even mix different materials and mediums, such as wood and metal, to make your office look more appealing.
6. Get Better Lighting
Have you noticed that most offices have terrible fluorescent lighting? Sure, these lights use less energy than other options, but they are also hard on the eyes. If possible, replace those fluorescent lights with a few table lamps. Even better, open the blinds for more natural light. Sunlight increases serotonin levels in the brain. This hormone helps people stay focused while at work.
7. Untangle Cords
Tired of tripping over computer cords every day? Offices rely on electronics than ever, so having an excessive number of cables only seems normal. However, all those cords are both an eyesore and a safety hazard. Untangle those cables, and secure them in place with Velcro. Labeling every cord will also make it easier to locate the one you need in the event of an IT emergency.
8. Add a Pop of Color
There seems to be an unwritten rule that all offices should be white, gray, or beige. Yes, these colors are neutral, but they’re also boring. Spice things up by adding a few splashes of color. Even if your boss doesn’t let you repaint the walls, you can still brighten things up with colorful tapestries or fun desktop accessories.
9. Make a Literary Statement
Words are powerful. Turn your favorite sayings or catchphrases into decorative artwork. Simply print out a few quotes in a beautiful font and frame them. Hang them on any bare walls. These one-of-a-kind pieces will also become a great conversation starter.
10. Go Old School with Chalk
Chalkboards aren’t just for elementary schools. You can also transform a wall in your office into a homemade blackboard. Buy some chalkboard paint at a home improvement store, and after a few coats, you’ll have a fully functional blackboard. Get some chalks, and use your freshly painted creation to write down important notes to deliver presentations.
Get a Great Office for Cheap
It doesn’t take a lot of money to turn a generic office into a space that motivates you. Try a few of these tips to transform your office for only a few dollars. Once you finish, you’ll never want to leave your renovated room. The more personalized your office, the more productive you’ll feel while at work.
