A guide to creating a productive remote working set up

As someone who has been working from home and on the go while travelling for over 15yrs, I thought I would share some insights into how to make it work. Between family life, changing routines and limited space, your home office often has to do more than simply hold a desk and chair. It needs to support focus, comfort, and a sense of structure and be a space for creativity to flourish. Thoughtful interior choices can ease everyday frustrations, helping you work more efficiently while keeping the space calm and functional for everyone else. When your setup reflects how you actually live, productivity feels natural rather than forced.

Choose the right location

Where you place your workspace shapes how you work each day. A quiet corner or spare room, away from busy walkways and shared living areas, makes concentration easier and reduces interruptions. Natural light plays an important role too, as daylight supports alertness and can lift your mood during long working hours. Even in smaller homes, a compact nook with clear boundaries helps separate work time from family life, making it easier to switch off at the end of the day.

Ergonomic & family-friendly furniture

Furniture that fits your body and your household protects both comfort and focus. An adjustable chair that supports your back and a desk set at the right height reduce strain, particularly if you spend most of the day seated. For homes with children, adding a small kids’ desk or activity station nearby allows them to feel included while keeping them occupied, which reduces interruptions. This shared setup encourages independence and lets you stay present without constantly stopping work.

Control light & glare

Lighting affects how comfortable your workspace feels from morning to evening. Daylight works best when balanced with task lighting, giving you enough brightness for screen work and paperwork without harsh shadows. Window treatments matter here, as Venetian blinds allow you to adjust light levels throughout the day, reducing screen glare during video calls while still letting warmth and daylight into the room. This flexibility keeps the space practical without making it feel closed off.

Keep it organised & tidy

Organisation supports productivity by removing visual and mental clutter. Wall-mounted boards keep reminders visible without taking up desk space, while baskets, shelves and drawer organisers give everything a defined place. Hiding cables and paperwork reduces distractions and creates a calmer environment that suits both work and family activities. A tidy setup also shortens the time it takes to reset the space at the end of the day, helping you maintain a healthier work-life balance.