inspiration strikes

Organize furniture around windows so that you can bask in the sunlight as much as possible while working. Natural lighting adds vibrance, improves mood, and produces calming psychological effects.

Many studies have gone into exploring how colors can affect and alter our moods. Color Psychology is the study of analyzing how colors affect our behavior, emotions, and perceptions. Using certain color schemes to optimize your working life can promote a more visually pleasing and psychologically stimulating space. For instance, the color blue is thought to promote tranquility and focus, while the color red arouses alertness and productivity. If painting the walls is a no-go, then you can simply add color through photos, wall art, and even the background on your computer. Experiment with your color preferences and see what works best for you!

A strategically placed mirror can create the illusion of a larger space. Mirrors can beautify a space and redistribute the flow of natural light.

In addition to prioritizing natural light, catering other lighting choices is important to maximize productivity. Different light color combinations can foster varying psychological effects. While warmer yellow and orange lighting often induces calmness and relaxation, brighter blue and white lighting can bolster alertness and concentration. One thing we love to do at bfd interiors is turn off the bright overhead lighting, and light our spaces and offices with a variety of lamps and natural light. This change makes the space calmer and more inviting—and even helps with our eyes and any headaches!

A blank wall is an opportunity! Install a floating shelf or other similar organizers to make the most of your vertical space.

While small rugs can make a space feel smaller, wall-to-wall flooring can create the feeling of a wider, more open environment. The absence of breaks between floor materials produces a sense of continuity and flow, making the space appear larger.

High-quality furniture can make all the difference when creating the ideal working environment. Consider prioritizing comfort when selecting desk chairs, lounge furniture, and even conference room pieces. Productivity can be severely diminished when unsupportive furniture causes fatigue and/or discomfort. A huge plus in commercial furniture is the warranty. If a product is damaged or breaks years down the line, then many times it’s under warranty and can be replaced easily. It’s worth the money and investment to have high-quality furniture that will last and support you.

A standing desk has many advantages, ranging from improving posture to a variety of health and mood benefits. Choosing a desk can be a game-changer! Not to mention, the removal of a bulky office chair is sure to free up a good deal of space. For example, an adjustable desk with height-adjustment capacities can be manipulated from a standard sitting desk into a standing one. Anytime we are feeling stagnant in our work or our mind, simply switching from sitting to standing makes all the difference, not to mention it’s healthier too!

Having modular furniture that you can constantly customize and adapt to fit your current needs is a savvy purchase. You can reconfigure your set up to freshen up the space or accommodate different daily needs—all without having to make additional purchases.

Desks equipped with shelving features can provide additional storage and promote organization. Alternatively, a smaller desk can clear up much-needed space.

If you can’t digitize all your files, then be sure to have a specific spot for physical storage. Just as digital files free up space, having storage for physical files can also free up other space throughout the rest of your office. Consider using mobile peds, rolling carts, and other storage devices. Let these be your trusty Sidekicks!

Plan your setup so that certain spaces can be assigned to specific tasks. For instance, you can create a designated desk, storage, and lounge areas. Additionally, if you’re working alongside a coworker or in a traditional office setting, then positioning decorative room dividers can create privacy and spice up the space with some color.

Set aside a time each week to be deliberate about the objects in your environment. Go through your files, contemplate your trinkets, and assess what really needs to remain. Though it might seem like a no-brainer, decluttering can often be pushed aside when it isn’t turned into a regular practice. Create a routine for yourself so that the habit feels like second nature.

Technology makes work easier, but what a distraction it can be! Having a drawer or box to store smartphones, tablets, and other devices can keep them out of sight and out of mind, helping to maximize your productivity in the workspace. We love a good “do not disturb” or “work” mode!

Using more than one computer screen can enhance your workflow by providing more space to view work. Having more electronic workspace reduces physical clutter that might be strewn across your desk. With this handy trick, you can multitask more easily and efficiently by streamlining certain tasks to specific monitors. Try a Dual Desk Mount that allows you to adjust the monitors for your convenience and comfort.

Plants can purify the air and contribute to a tranquil, relaxing environment. Depending on the space available, even small succulents or air plants suspended from hooks can spruce up a room and make the most of limited space. And at bfd interiors, we even have fake plants around the office. They’re no maintenance, and you can have them in rooms without natural light to help soften and brighten up the space. Real or fake, plants are always a must!

Food is fuel! Having healthy snacks and plenty of water on hand will keep you charged throughout the day. A bowl of fruit can also add a splash of color to the place! Readily available snacks will keep you as energized as possible for an industrious day. We love our coffee and totally need it, but make sure you’re getting at least a cup of water between each cup of coffee!