8 Ergonomic Home Office Renovation Ideas: Top Must-Have Updates
Is your workspace due for an upgrade? These ergonomic home office renovation tips promise a design and productivity boost.
A 2022 study by Holzgreve et al. found that using an ergonomically optimized workstation at home reduces the risk of work-related musculoskeletal complaints. Those who work from home may automatically assume that things will be more comfortable, and at face value, they might be. However, hours of reading, typing, etc., in the wrong configuration can quickly lead to pain and injuries.
The good news is that this can be easily rectified. With a simple home office renovation, you can set up a comfortable work environment that also results in productivity improvement.
Here are eight of our home office design tips you should implement.
1. Upgrade to an Electric Standing Desk
Sitting may feel more comfortable, but according to Mayo Clinic, prolonged sitting has associated health risks, such as obesity, heart disease, and cancer. In addition, if you're not sitting correctly, you may get back pain and reduced energy levels. This is why it's vital to take breaks from sitting and stand as often as possible.
With an electric standing desk, this is possible, and it's much easier to go from sitting to standing too. You can effortlessly switch between the two, as all you'll have to do is touch a button, and the desk will raise or lower itself. Some even come with preset heights and memory height settings, so you won't have to guess which heights you like best.
This ergonomic furniture setup ensures that you reduce strain on your spine and stop sitting for long periods.
2. Incorporate a Wobble Stool for Active Sitting
It's understandable if you can remain standing for all of your work, so for the times you're sitting, use a wobble stool. It encourages active sitting since you have to engage your core to stay balanced while seated. These micro-movements improve your posture and reduce fatigue, which is often caused by static sitting.
For the best results, use the wobble stool in short intervals (20-40 minutes). Having one with adjustable heights is best so you can work seamlessly between sitting and standing.
3. Invest in an Ergonomic Chair (for Seated Sessions)
As we've said above, you shouldn't use a wobble stool for long periods, so invest in a good ergonomic chair. This will greatly help when you have longer seated tasks, as you'll get proper lumbar support.
Look for a chair that has adjustable lumbar support to reduce stress on your lower back and promote spinal alignment. It should also have height-adjustable armrests, as well as a waterfall seat edge to reduce pressure on your thighs.
All of the above features will make sitting feel like a dream!
4. Use an Anti-Fatigue Mat While Standing
Standing is good for your health, but being on your feet for long periods can lead to joint discomfort, especially if you're on a hard surface. A fantastic way to combat pain and discomfort is to get an anti-fatigue mat.
This product cushions your feet while promoting subtle movements that improve your circulation. If you get one that has high-density foam, then it'll make hours of standing feel like minutes.
We recommend replacing your mat every 1-2 years since the foam compresses over time. You'll get the best results if you keep the foam thick and cushiony.
5. Install a Surge Protector Power Strip
A surge protector power strip may not seem like an ergonomic addition at first, but it can really streamline things. It'll prevent equipment damage during power spikes, and it'll also provide centralized and clutter-free access to power.
You should mount the power strip under your desk or on a wall, as this will keep the cords organized. Plus, it'll keep them off the floor, where you can trip on them.
Also, choose a power strip with a long cord to have more flexibility. If it has USB ports, then you can charge your mobile devices easily too.
6. Adjust Monitor Height and Distance
Your monitor height and distance can make a huge difference in how you feel. If it's too low or too far away, then you risk neck strain and eye fatigue.
In general, you should do the following:
- Have your monitor at about an arm's length away
- Ensure the top of the monitor is at or slightly below eye level
- Use a monitor riser or adjustable arm mount to fine-tune the positioning
If you use dual monitors, then they should be angled slightly inward. This reduces neck turning and the risk of injury.
7. Optimize Lighting to Reduce Eye Strain
Another thing you can do to reduce eye strain is to optimize the lighting in your workspace. Not only can poor lighting strain your eyes, but it can also lead to headaches.
The best setup is to utilize natural lighting. With that said, you should place your desk perpendicular to a window to reduce glare.
When there's no natural lighting, you should use an LED desk lamp and avoid overhead fluorescent lights. The LED light should also have adjustable brightness and color temperature.
8. Create an Organized, Clutter-Free Desk Layout
The key to ergonomics is to have organization and as little clutter as possible. A tidy workplace minimizes distractions, which means you'll have better focus and productivity. In addition, it'll reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
Here are our organizational tips:
- Keep frequently used items within a 15-inch radius
- Use vertical storage to keep your desktop clear
- Consider using a desk drawer organizer to avoid overreaching
Good Luck With Your Home Office Renovation
If you've been struggling with your work-from-home setup, then a home office renovation may be what you need. With the right tools and products in place, you'll feel significantly more comfortable, and your productivity will go up.
Of course, you should also take good care of yourself by being proactive. Make sure to take breaks and stretch regularly. Plus, don't be afraid to adjust your setup based on what your body's telling you. Your comfort isn't static, so your setup shouldn't be either.
If you're interested in workspace enhancement, then check out our sales items now. Uncaged Ergonomics has been specializing in unique and affordable ergonomic office furniture since 2010.