Remote work is becoming increasingly prevalent across a wide range of industries and job roles. In fact, last year, 44% of workers reported home or hybrid working - that’s nearly half of the UK population working remotely!
Whether you're working fully remote or adopting a more hybrid, flexible working set up, having the right tools and environment can significantly boost productivity and well-being.
In this blog, we'll explore 6 must-have items that will transform your home office into a haven of efficiency and comfort. From comfy ergonomic chairs to productivity-boosting gadgets and desks, we've got you covered.
1. Computer Monitors
One of the most valuable pieces of equipment you can add to your home office desk setup if you haven’t got one already, are computer monitors.
These are large display screens that are used to visually present data generated by a computer. By providing more screen space with simultaneous screens open, it is much easier to multitask and communicate with colleagues or clients, on video calls, for example.
For even more efficiency, it’s worth also getting a monitor arm, which allows you to mount your monitor on a stand, freeing up valuable desk space and maximising the area for other desk essentials for a less cluttered work environment.
Similarly, a CPU holder keeps the computer off the floor or desk, saving space and reducing clutter.
2. Plants
Numerous scientific studies have shown that simply adding greenery in the form of indoor plants can have significant positive benefits for employees and organisations, and the same goes for remote or home workers, too.
One major benefit is reduced stress, which can be backed up by several studies. For example, a study by the new University of Technology, Sydney, found reductions in stress among workers when plants were introduced to their workspace. Results saw a 37% fall in tension and anxiety; a 58% drop in depression and a 44% decrease in anger and hostility among workers.
Many studies have also reported that office plants can help to increase productivity. According to 2014 research by the University of Exeter, employees’ productivity increased by 15% when working environments were filled with just a few houseplants.
colour psychology experts also believe that the colour green has a relaxing and calming effect, so filling offices with this shade could potentially have a similar effect to introducing plants to the workspace.
Discover the best desk plants to buy for your home office in our guide.
3. Comfy Desk Chair
One of, if not the, most important pieces of furniture you need to get right for your home office is a comfy ergonomic desk chair.
Ergonomic office chairs are specially designed to provide maximum comfort and support to users who spend long periods of time sitting at a desk or computer. These chairs promote proper posture, reduce the risk of musculoskeletal issues, and enhance overall well-being.
With so many different types of ergonomic chairs out there, it’s important you choose the right one for you and your individual needs. Discover 6 of the main things to consider when purchasing an ergonomic chair here.
At Ergo Desks, all of our ergonomic chairs are highly adjustable, designed to provide strong back support and an ideal seat position for long periods of sitting. Shop our wide selection of ergonomic office chairs here, ideal when paired with our height adjustable desks.
Ergonomic chairs promote proper posture, reduce the risk of musculoskeletal issues, and enhance overall well-being.
4. Laptop Stand
Laptop stands are desk accessories designed to elevate and support laptops for improved ergonomics, comfort, and performance. They can be found in a variety of different designs and styles, but most laptop stands share the same common features - height adjustability, tilted angle, portability, ventilation and compatibility.
A great example of a quality laptop stand, if we do say so ourselves, is the Ergo-Q 330 Laptop Stand, a premium mobile laptop stand ensuring a healthy and active working style wherever you are. It also features an integrated document holder and 6 height settings, allowing you to work comfortably with a correct posture at all times.
Browse our extensive collection of ergonomic accessories here.
5. Standing Desk
Now we can’t list 6 working from home office essentials without mentioning standing desks.
If you didn’t know, standing desks, also known as sit-stand desks, are a type of desk that allows the user to move from a sitting position to a standing position, through a sitting/standing position, thanks to a manual or electric adjustment. Learn more about the key differences between electric and manual standing desks here.
Did you know that people who live a sedentary life and work for long periods in a seated position are at an increased risk of developing chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart failure and obesity? This is why standing desks are becoming more and more popular among workplaces across the UK.
Some of the key health benefits of standing desks include:
- Increased blood circulation - Working while standing helps promote better blood circulation, which can reduce the risk of heavy legs and varicose veins.
- Improved posture and reduced back pain - Standing desks encourage better spinal alignment, as users are likely to maintain a neutral spine position while standing, helping to distribute weight evenly and reducing the risk of back, shoulder, and neck pain resulting from prolonged sitting.
- Reduced fatigue - Working in a standing position can be much less fatiguing to the body, and can in fact help to boost energy levels.
- Improved productivity - Research has shown that employees who swap their regular desks with standing desks report better productivity and engagement with their work, as well as a positive impact on their job performance.
Discover how to choose the perfect standing desk for your home office, here. And if you need additional help choosing a standing desk, get in contact with our expert team at info@ergodesks.co.uk.
Standing and moving in front of a standing desk can trigger increased metabolism, positive hormonal changes, decreased blood sugar and more, leading to weight loss.
What Are the Best Standing Desk Accessories?
To maximise comfort and improve your active working experience, we highly recommend investing in high-quality desk mats and footrests. These ergonomic accessories are the perfect blend of style and function, designed to reduce strain and tension, promote proper posture, and enhance your workflow.
At Ergo Desks, our standing desk accessories are more than just accessories and tools - they're a solution. Browse our full range of desk mats and food rests here.
6. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Noise-cancelling headphones are pretty much what they say on the tin. They use active noise control technology to reduce or eliminate ambient sounds from the outside environment.
When working from home, there might be several distractions throughout the day, whether it be other family or house members, street sounds, pets or general household activities. And for most people, these can be detrimental to focus and productivity.
Noise cancelling headphones, however, would help block out these distractions, allowing you to concentrate better on your work tasks. This is especially beneficial when you need to engage in tasks that require deep concentration or attention to detail.
Noise-cancelling headphones also often provide superior audio quality compared to standard headphones, which is super beneficial when listening to music, participating in virtual meetings, or watching educational videos without distractions.
-
We hope this article has helped you gain valuable insights into the essential elements needed to create a productive and comfortable home office environment.
Looking for a standing desk for your home, office or workspace? Check out our full collection of standing desks, available for next working day delivery if ordered by 3pm. Our desks come with a 7 year warranty, 30 day risk free return, as well as access to a UK-based customer service team to answer any questions that you might have.
If you need additional help choosing a standing desk, feel free to get in contact with our expert team with any queries via our live chat feature on our website, or via email at
