Home Office Setup Ideas to Transform Your Workspace

However, without the proper home office setup, it can also be less comfortable or more stressful. If you’re working at the kitchen table or on the living room couch, you might find it hard to focus or stay organized.

That’s where an ideal home office setup can make all the difference. With a bit of planning, you can create a space that helps you stay productive, organized, and comfortable. Every detail counts, from choosing the right lighting to picking the perfect furniture.

What you need to setup a home office

Your work from home office setup is more than just a desk and a chair. When you setup a home office, try to create a space that makes you feel like a boss (even if you’re still in your slippers), and promote productivity and well-being:

• Ergonomic furniture to reduce physical strain.
• A desk with enough space for your computer, supplies, and other office essentials.
• Adequate lighting, including natural and task lighting, to limit eye strain.
• Storage solutions, such as shelves or drawers, to keep the clutter away.
• Power outlets or surge protectors for all your electronics.
• Sound treatments to help you maintain your focus.
• Decor that inspires creativity and productivity, like art, plants, or motivational artwork.

How much does a home office setup cost?

The cost1 of setting up your home office can vary significantly based on your needs, preferences, and budget. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Budget-friendly option ($250-$1,000): This range covers the basics: a simple desk, a comfortable chair, and essential organizational tools.
• Mid-range setup ($1,000-$2,500): A mid-range budget allows for higher-quality furniture, better lighting options, and some ergonomic accessories
• High-end configuration ($2,500-$10,000+): At this level, you can invest in premium ergonomic accessories, advanced tech setups, and custom storage solutions.

You can always start with the essentials and gradually upgrade your space. The key is to create a functional workspace that meets your immediate needs and supports your productivity.

8 home office setup ideas to get you started

Now that you know what you need, let’s get into the details. Here are eight ideas to help you nail your workspace:

1. Light it up

Your home office should be a productive space, and that starts with good lighting. And even though natural sunlight is great, it’s not always enough.

• Lightbulb options: Crisp, white spark creativity and alertness, while warmer, yellow-toned lights create a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Lighting locations: It’s up to you whether you’d like to rely on a desk lamp or a ceiling light for your office, but some experts recommend both. A ceiling light is perfect for getting energized in the middle of the day, but a desk lamp may provide a cozier atmosphere when you’re waking up with your first coffee or cramming for a deadline late at night. 

2. Build the desk of your dreams

Sure, you can shell out hundreds of dollars on office furniture, but you could also build the perfect desk for your office dimensions. Bonus: You can install just the right number of drawers and spaces to run wires! 

Building your own home office desk setup is a bigger that will require some carpentry skills, but it’s a rewarding way to craft your perfect workspace. If you’re unsure where to start, consider video chatting with a Frontdoor Expert to guide you through the build process.

3. Save space with stylish shelving

Floor space is at a premium in most home office setups. Hanging shelves can help you free up valuable desk space while providing a place to store books, supplies, and decor. 

Remember, measure twice, drill once! And if you’re not confident installing shelves, there’s no shame in that game. Our Frontdoor Experts can guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your shelves are secure and your walls remain hole-free.

4. Refresh your walls

Wallpaper or paint? Although wallpaper has made a small comeback (especially on accent walls), most people still choose to paint their walls. The choice really comes down to what makes you happiest.

Choosing paint for your office

Pay close attention to your color options if you paint your office. Here’s how colors impact your mind, according to Entrepreneur**:

• Blue: Blue is perfect for productivity and well-being, and it relieves stress without being distracting.
• Yellow: Yellow is excellent for getting inspired. It increases positivity, enthusiasm, and creativity, so it’s a great home office color for designers, writers, artists, and anyone who likes to create.
• Green: Green is a calming color frequently associated with nature and the outdoors—and it can even make you happier.
• Red: Red is associated with power and excitement and can be a powerful stimulant that gives you an extra boost of energy and focus.

And when you’re ready to channel your inner O’Keefe, check out our guide on how to paint like a Pro!

5. Sound off on distractions

Home offices are great, but you might find yourself distracted by barking dogs or the gleeful shrieks of playful children. 

You can take measures to dampen those outside noises (and to keep the noises from your office inside the office). Here’s how to create your little oasis of calm:

• Hang acoustic tiles to absorb sound waves.
• Add additional insulation to your walls.
• Install carpeting or a thick rug.
• Swap out your office door for a solid-core door.
• Use a white noise machine.

6. Windows of opportunity

Natural sunlight is a must for long stints in the office, but sometimes, it can be too much of a good thing. Keep your home office free from annoying glares and resulting headaches with these home office setup ideas:

1. Clean your windows inside and out. Windows get dirty, and clean windows allow more sunlight to enter the room.
2. Hang window treatments. Blinds and blackout curtains can be powerful additions to your home office if your windows receive plenty of direct sunlight and give.
3. Don’t let the light spill against your computer monitor. Reflected sunlight on your computer monitor can lead to eye strain, which contributes to headaches and migraines. Be mindful of your monitor placement when setting up your desk!

7. Keep cables under control

In many home offices, outlets aren’t conveniently located. Instead of running extension cords across the room, you may consider installing a new outlet to accommodate your office tech.

Not sure how to do it safely? Consult a licensed electrician or let one of our Experts walk you through the process. 

8. Prioritize ergonomics

If you sit for long periods, ergonomic furniture and accessories can make you more comfortable while protecting your health. Time to go shopping. Keep an eye out for:

• An adjustable chair with proper lumbar support.\
• An ergonomic keyboard and mouse to prevent wrist strain.
• An adjustable monitor that allows you to position your tech at just the right height to maintain good posture.

Dream bigger and design better

As a Frontdoor member, you can get exclusive discounts on design services through Spacejoy.

Spacejoy offers a personalized design experience that matches your style and budget. Whether you're after a sleek, modern look or something more cozy and eclectic, their designers work with you to create a home office that reflects your personality. Plus, with the ability to visualize real products in your space, you’ll know exactly how everything fits before making any decisions.

We also saved the best for last—Frontdoor members can get 15% off Spacejoy's design packages with promo code SJXFD15.

Open the Frontdoor to the office of your dreams

Turning your space into the ideal workspace doesn’t have to be a solo project. Whether you’re building custom shelves or figuring out where the light hits just right, Frontdoor connects you with real Experts who can guide you through every DIY, design, or to-do. No more guesswork, no more trial and error. 

So why struggle to create the perfect home office on your own? Download the Frontdoor app to live video chat with an Expert who can help you with everything you need to make your work-from-home dreams a reality.

*Pricing data sourced from https://www.soscanhelp.com/blog/how-much-does-a-home-office-cost, https://www.wired.com/story/work-from-home-home-office-gear-guide/, and https://remote.com/blog/budget-home-office

** https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/what-colors-make-you-more-productive/