In a time when remote work has become the new normal, everyone wants to transform their living room into a workspace.
The problem is…
Where there’s remote work, there’s also distraction.
Maybe you’re finding it difficult to work comfortably from your couch. Or you’re constantly tempted to turn the TV on.
Whatever the case may be…
It’s often harder to focus in your living room than it would be in an office.
(Especially if you have kids running around).
So, how do you effectively convert your living room into a home office?
What steps can you take to ensure that you stay productive?
It all comes down to deciding what you’ll need to remain focused. The key is picking a dedicated area of the room to work in, and then creating a “boundary” between work and home life.
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Pick a Dedicated Workspace
When you start working from home, you’ll want a space where you’re sure that you will stay productive. That’s why it’s recommended to dedicate a specific part of your living room to work.
You could work in front of a window, where natural light would be able to come in. Or you might pick a corner that doesn’t have any furniture or decorations, making it the ideal area to place a desk.
If your living room is large enough, you can set up a “free-floating” desk and integrate your office into any space you want.
The workspace you pick should be a place where you can work comfortably and without any outside distraction.
Section Off Your Work Area
Want to be a bit more secluded when you work?
Consider putting up a room divider.
A divider doesn’t have to be anything fancy. You can put up a curtain, hanging beads or a rolling door. Foldable dividers are also for sale at most retailers.
Sectioning off a dedicated workspace can do wonders for your productivity. It reduces the chances of being distracted, and if you live with other people, a divider can indicate that you’re not to be disturbed during work hours.
Buy a Comfortable Desk
The desk is the command center of any home office. Not only will you need a desk large enough to support a computer, but it should also be able to store physical files, documents, and other work essentials.
A standard desk, with a storage compartment at the bottom, is a go-to option for many remote workers. Also available are wall-mounted desks, perfect for those who have smaller living rooms or who prefer to work standing up.
Create a Couch Command Center
Of course, not everyone is able to make room for a dedicated office space. Naturally, the next best thing is to turn your couch into a command center for your work.
Place a desk behind your couch to create a compact, yet convenient work area. If your couch is already against a wall, no need to worry!
You can situate the desk in front of the couch, allowing you to work in comfort.
Set Up in Front of a Shelf
If you have a lot of work-related items, or if your workspace just tends to get cluttered, you might want to set up your office in a way that lets you be organized. You can accomplish this by making your home office near a shelving unit.
Simply place a chair or desk in front of the shelf, and you have an instant storage-friendly office space. Having shelf space nearby makes it easier for you to keep your supplies secure and within reach.
Plus, you won’t be taking up too much space out of your living room!
Keep Away From the TV
Let’s face it: if you’re working out of your living room, you’re going to be tempted to turn on your TV at some point. You might want to put something on in the background, but it’s easy to get caught up in what you’re watching and not focus on work.
Set up your office space so that you are facing away from the TV. When you have your back to it, you’re less eager to turn it on. Room dividers and curtains can also help you stay focused and reduce the chances of you getting distracted.
Living Room Office Combo Ideas
Want to add a bit of flair to your home office? There is a multitude of combinations you can work with to make your workspace unique.
Make the most of your space and try these ideas for yourself!
Closet Office
A spare closet can be easily converted into a nook where you can set up your home office.
Not enough room for a proper desk? A wall-mounted shelf makes for an excellent substitute. Not only is a shelf easier to fit into a closet, it also gives you more room to put your chair in.
Hallway Office
Hallways and entryways are convenient locations for any living room office. Most vanities and desks are narrow enough to be placed against a wall, making an office space that is open and easily accessible.
Open Office Space
Do you have a large living room? Your home office can function as space all to itself.
Letting your desk “float” in front of a wall or other furniture is a simple yet stylish way to create a workspace in your living room. You can further establish it as its own space by adding a rug, dividers, or other decorations that detach it from the rest of the room.
Written By Jónatan Murali
Born and raised in a family of builders, Jónatan learned the trade at an early age and has since honed his craft, becoming a master in his field. Throughout his career, Jónatan has worked on countless home renovation projects, from small bathroom upgrades to large-scale kitchen remodels. He has a keen eye for design and a passion for creating beautiful, functional living spaces. As a general contractor and a writer, Jónatan is dedicated to delivering high-quality workmanship and engaging content that educates people about the industry. Through his work, he has helped to raise awareness about responsible construction practices and the importance of proper building codes. In his free time John enjoys fishing and long walks with the family dog.
