Bringing Work Home

Both in terms of the physical space that is the house and mind space, suddenly being thrust into working from home requires adjustments on multiple levels.  As we inhabit new ‘hybrid’ spaces, these industry experts share tips for thriving in this age of remote work.

BENE

Shifting one’s workplace to home has dramatically disrupted the concepts of a place to work, and a place called home.  Smartphones and digital tech were already blurring the lines, but self-isolation has melded the two disparate functions into one at an unprecedented pace.The ability to feel ‘at home’ and at ease - irrespective where one signs-in in from – is critical, especially in these uncertain times. Furniture plays an important role. “Our furniture needs to reflect the quality of all other parts of our life,” says designer Thomas Feichtner who created the Studio collection for Bene. “Furniture too, needs to transition easily from a domestic environment to the workplace.” The Studio collection, with its poised design, built-in features and vast options for customization presents a lifestyle solution to working from home. Discover Bene’s passion for innovative workspace here.

HAWORTH

Brian Kelly, Managing Director, Haworth, MEA shares insights on how to make one’s time at home equally productive and positive. “Introducing elements of biophilia to your work area has been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity and focus,” he says, recommending that those working from home curate their workspace to make it more inviting and inspiring. “Have clearly defined goals for the day and block off the time required to focus on what is important,” he says. “Use digital technology where possible to stay in touch, ideate and plan your projects.” Lastly, Kelly lays importance on managing stress by taking a break: “Monitoring one’s emotional well-being increases concentration and positively impacts productivity and creativity.” Discover more about Haworth here.

HERMAN MILLER

Workplace psychology experts, Herman Miller recommend those working from home first assess how they usually work at the office. “Over a seven year period, Herman Miller discovered that there are ten activities that are fundamental to everybody,” says Baxter. These include group activities such as co-creating, huddles, show & tell and individual processes such as creating and contemplating. “How much time you spend on each may depend on your job role, personality, age, etc.” Keeping one's tasks, movement and posture in mind, set at least three key work zones around your house. These can be kitchen work top for standing height, dining table for desk height and the sofa or bed for lounge height. “If you cannot use an ergonomics task chair, move locations every couple of hours, including light stretching, to relax your spine.” For more on Herman Miller’s work from home, solutions click here.

USM 

“Rather than creating an activity-defined space, designing an area that supports both the personal and professional aspects of life increases overall usage” suggests Eric Berchtold, Sales Director Middle East & Africa, USM.  Ultimately, the perfect environment should be a space in which one wants to spend time in, whether it’s to work or play. What one needs to keep in mind is the adaptiveness of one’s work from home set-up. Addressing how it may evolve to include the needs and requirements of other family members – children and e-learning, for example – requires a flexible, modular solution that will allow spaces to grow and accommodate the future. Find out more about USM here.