Are you well-equipped to work from home?

Keep it practical (but make it pleasant)

When it comes to working remotely, your best bet is to convert an entire spare room into a home office. Ideally, this room is on the first floor of the home, or it's situated upstairs in a space that allows for plenty of natural sunlight. You'll want the area to feel uncluttered, without any excessive furniture or objects lying around. Closed storage is a great way to stash away anything from paperwork and files that you don't want to see but you need to have on hand. Prioritize closed storage that's lower to the ground to create a sense of openness in a smaller room, and opt for higher storage if your home office setting has ample space. Also, keep in mind that full-height storage units tend to weigh down a room that's smaller in size.

Two's company

Making space for two in a single home office is something you maybe hadn't planned for but don't worry, you can make it work. Instead of getting separate desks, try an antique kitchen table. Place it in the middle of the room and set up your workstations at opposite ends facing one another. The benefit of having a large kitchen table is that it gives you plenty of space and has a less "corporate" look than a standard desk. Plus, it gives your room significant character. If there happens to be more than two using this shared table, you can also try placing desks around the room to create a U-Shaped seating formation, a practical configuration for remote work. All that's missing is a filing cabinet or some storage below the desks to create more efficiency. 

Convert a closet into your office

You know that closet you have that isn't being used for anything? Convert it into an office! You can either leave the closet doors on or remove them altogether; that's up to you. The main idea is to make a functional space by installing your desk with some closed storage and open storage shelving. What's fun about working with a closet is that it allows you to create a unique space — you can paint or cover the area with wallpaper to accentuate your workstation. Be sure to brighten things up with a desk lamp or pot lights so that your space is bright and clear. 

When you've got limited space…

Sometimes, you can't help but set your desk up anywhere, including in a common area of the home. In these cases, it's essential to do whatever you can to ensure that your living room, kitchen, or dining room doesn't start looking or feeling like an office. You want to create a separation between your home and your job. For example, in the living room, stow away any work-related items in a coffee table with hidden storage. Or, stash away any items in a bookshelf with a few hidden doors. A buffet behind the couch is also an excellent spot for hiding all your office necessities. If your home is such that you must work out of the living room and, as a result, you need to sit at a small desk, then consider using a piece of furniture that naturally fits into the room and doesn't look so much like you're in a boardroom. If you have to set up a desk in these spaces, try using a stylish chair or dining chair and avoid desk chairs with casters that feel far too formal. Because when you don't have a designated office space, you don't want to be reminded of work when the day is over. Last but not least, all common areas should be kept tidy.

Well-equipped to work from home in the basement

For many of us, our basement is a great place to get productive. However, the biggest drawback of working out of a basement is that this is often an area of the home lacking in natural light and can feel a little too dim. If you think that your downstairs lighting is adequate, then the basement could very well be an enjoyable space for working remotely. Just try to avoid bleak wall paint and think about ways to incorporate light — it's key to making your basement space more inviting. Have you ever considered using an area below your stairwell to set up your workstation? Try it out!

Or, install custom shelving to maximize this space — by doing that, you'll transform this underserved area into a charming spot for work. You can also create a custom office space with storage that can also serve as a room divider. If you go this route, you can have a TV area on one side and a playroom or gym space on the other.

Wherever you decide to set up your home office, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure your space is as pleasant as possible:

• When you've clocked out for the day, put away the paperwork and file folders.
• Avoid a large-sized desk that's too corporate or formal.
• Make sure to have bright lighting and beautiful tabletop desk lamps.
• Surround yourself with plants. Everywhere.
• Avoid too much clutter by keeping the space light and minimal.
• Add a carpet for a little extra comfort.