THE BLOG

Hey guys! I hope everyone is staying safe and sane during this crazy time. NYC is pretty much dead right now and most of us are trying to quarantine as much as possible. I’m sure everyone who is reading this has been given the orders to remotely work from home, which can be both a blessing and a curse. You’re able to work in your pajamas, however, if you work in a small apartment, you might not have a dedicated space to set your computer down and focus. Today, I’m sharing three ways you can create a small, home office (or DIY desk) in your own space, whether you live in a studio or tiny apartment.

DIY DESK ESSENTIALS

The first solution is to rearrange your furniture so you can float your sofa instead of having it up against a wall. Floating your sofa gives you the option to place a narrow console table behind it, which can act as a desk. For example, in my apartment, I placed a narrow acrylic table behind my couch and popped some stools underneath. This way, I’m not using up too much space yet, I have a dedicated spot to work in if I need it.

DIY DESK ESSENTIALS

excuse the poor photoshop 🙂

The second solution (which might not be aesthetically pleasing, but can still work!), is to place a console table in front of your bed. In the same way, as I explained above, you just slip some stools underneath and, low and behold, you have a place to work!

Finally, the last solution is to invest in a folding table. I’ve discussed this many times before on the blog, however, it was VITAL to include it in this post! If you really don’t have the space to move around furniture or add a console table, then this should be your last resort. If you order a folding table, you can use it when you need it, and then slip it under your bed or in a closet once you’re done.

Some more work-from-home tips below:

Make sure you have a hard surface to work on: Whether it’s a stand-up tray or a foldable table, make sure you have some type of flat surface to work on. Don’t assume your coffee table will work for this purpose: You need something high enough so you’re not bending down to read or to look at a computer.

De-clutter: Miscellaneous items laying around the area you’re working in can be a huge distraction. Make sure to tidy-up before starting your work to avoid any distractions/stress.

Embrace natural light: If possible, try to work in an area with natural light. This will not only give you a boost of happiness but will make your work more productive as well.

Make your bed: Have to work from bed with a standup tray? Make your bed before you start to work! This will help prevent you from wanting to snuggle up and fall asleep! In addition, make sure you have a supportive pillow behind you while working.

Hang a large to-do list: Keep a large to-do list hanging in the space where you’re working. This allows you to easily see the tasks you need to complete and will help you from feeling to overwhelmed. In addition, a to-do list will help inspire you to finish your work ASAP.

Move the remotes: Working in a space with a TV? Move the remote to the other side of the apartment so there’s no temptation!

Work in a space with neutral colors: If your bedroom is full of bright pops of color, you might want to stay away from that area when working. It’s scientifically proven that you will work more productively in an area with neutral, calming colors.