Ways to increase productivity and creativity in your study or home office

A well-designed study is essential for boosting productivity and creativity. From clever storage solutions to subtle lighting touches, there are many ways to elevate how you work and feel your workspace. In this guide, we’ll explore some impactful design ideas that can transform your study into a more organised and inspiring environment. Whether you're working with a compact nook or a spacious home office, these tips will help you create your best work.

Remove unnecessary mental stress

Visual clutter can affect your focus and mental stress. That's why it's important to design joinery that keeps your study clutter-free, whilst still being functional. Consider hiding bulky items like a printer by putting it into a cupboard on a slide out shelf. Cables from your computer, speaker, wifi, and devices also create a lot of visual clutter. We recommend managing these by installing multiple power points above and below the desk, then using a gap or hole within the desktop to pass cables through. You can also install a joinery box in front of the power points below the desk, that can hide the cables out of the way. For devices that require charging, include power points inside cupboards so they can be charged out of sight. And of course, make sure you have enough storage for all your paperwork and stationary so that everything has it's place.

Optimise natural light

Lighting is incredibly important in a space where you will be performing tasks that require concentration. During the day, there is no better light than natural light. The bright warm light also helps regulate our circadian rhythms, which supports better sleep - and better sleep helps improve concentration. Natural light can also improve your mood, boost alertness and reduce fatigue. If your window gets too much harsh light or faces out onto the street, consider adding a soft sheer curtain that can reduce glare and improve privacy, whilst still benefiting from the natural light.

Take notes from nature

Using natural textures, like timber, linen and rattan, can help create a space that feels calm, grounded, and creative. Pair these with soothing neutrals, soft greens, muted blues to create a little sanctuary which will help to reduce stress and increase focus. Whilst creating a space inspired by nature can greatly improve how we feel and function, nothing beats the real thing. If you can, create a beautiful garden outside your window, and/or bring some greenery into the space. Even just one or two indoor plants can boost concentration and reduce stress. Low-maintenance options like a snake plant or pothos are perfect if you're time poor or not used to looking after plants.

Add acoustic comfort

To improve concentration during work, you will want to include something helps dampen sounds. As well as good insulation within the surrounding walls, we recommend acoustic panels. I particularly like ones that look like timber paneling or that can double as a pin board. Including soft furnishings in the space, like carpet or rugs, curtains, or a lovely upholstered armchair can also help to dampen noise.

Whether you're deep in a project or simply catching up on emails, a well-designed environment can make all the difference in how you feel and perform throughout the day. By thoughtfully layering design elements like natural light, acoustic comfort, hidden storage, and organic textures, you can transform your workspace into a place that truly works with you.

Thank you for taking the time to read our blog post. Have a wonderful week!

Nina xx