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Residents in Dubai lead busy lives, with morning commutes often representing a significant part of the working day. Increasingly however, acceptance and adoption of remote working is changing how people earn their living.
Today, many Dubai villas and apartments feature a relatively new interior concept: a home office. Where once a utilitarian space featuring a lonely computer sufficed, today’s flexible workforce is making their office alternative a sanctuary of productivity and inspiration.
The first step in creating the ideal home office is selecting the right location within your Dubai home. While it may seem tempting to set up shop at the dining table or on the living room couch, a dedicated workspace is essential for concentration and productivity. Look for a quiet corner or spare room that receives ample natural light, as this can boost mood and focus. If you're short on space, consider a cleverly designed alcove or converting a walk-in wardrobe into a compact workstation.
Home Office - via Unsplash
Design your work-life
Your home office should be an extension of your personal style while accommodating the functional demands of your work. Invest in a comfortable and ergonomic chair that supports your posture. Pair it with a spacious desk that allows for efficient organisation.
Adequate lighting is crucial for reducing eye strain and creating a pleasant atmosphere. While most Dubai homes benefit from floor-to-ceiling windows, natural afternoon light shining onto your screen can be disrupting. Incorporate a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting with drapes or blinds to balance functionality with aesthetics.
Choose a colour scheme that resonates with you and promotes concentration. Calming neutrals like soft grays, soothing blues, or earthy tones can provide a serene backdrop for productivity. Inject pops of colour through accessories and artwork to infuse energy into the space.
A clutter-free workspace is essential for clear thinking. Pop down to one of Dubai’s many home furniture stores for the latest in storage solutions such as shelves, cabinets, and drawers. Floating shelves can double as both storage and display, adding character to your workspace.
Incorporate personal touches that inspire and motivate you – you’re the boss! Decorate your office with artwork, photographs, or objects that hold sentimental value. These can provide a mental break and foster creativity during your workday.
Ergonomics is not a buzzword; it's a crucial aspect of designing a home office that ensures your long-term comfort and well-being. Invest in an ergonomic chair that offers lumbar support, adjustable height, and armrests. Your chair should encourage proper posture and reduce the risk of back pain. Ensure your desk is at the right height to prevent strain on your wrists and shoulders. Position your monitor or laptop screen at eye level to minimise neck strain. Consider using a monitor stand or a laptop stand to achieve the ideal height. Use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries. Keep cables and cords neatly organised to prevent tripping hazards and maintain a clean workspace.
Natural touches
While Dubai is a busy, urban hub, your home should feel disconnected from the non-stop energy and allow your mind to feel calm and focused. Indoor air quality is often overlooked but can significantly impact your productivity and overall wellbeing. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent stuffiness. Incorporate indoor plants to add aesthetic appeal and improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
Technology essentials
In today's digital age, a home office is incomplete without the right tech setup. A reliable and fast internet connection from Etisalat, Du or Virgin Mobile is non-negotiable for remote work. Invest in a robust router and consider a wired connection for even better stability. Ensure that all your devices are seamlessly connected. Use cable organizers and docking stations to keep wires tidy and prevent clutter. If your work involves multitasking or creative endeavors, consider a multi-monitor setup. Regularly back up your work to prevent data loss. Invest in an external hard drive or use cloud storage services for added security. Finally, if you attend virtual meetings or webinars, a good quality webcam and microphone are essential for clear communication.
Home Office - Via Unsplash
Organisational efficiency
Place motivational quotes or affirmations where you can see them. These reminders can boost your mood and productivity. Consider hanging a whiteboard or bulletin board to keep track of tasks, deadlines, and ideas. Visualizing your goals can help you stay focused. Some people work better with background music or ambient sounds. Invest in quality speakers or noise-canceling headphones to create a conducive auditory environment.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, develop personal rituals that mark the beginning and end of your workday. This can include lighting a scented candle, changing your apparel, or even going for an evening walk along one of Dubai’s popular and scenic pedestrian spots such as Kite Beach, or a walking area near your home. After all, life is about balance and even your home office needs to close for the evening!
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