In recent years, as more Canadians have embraced hybrid work schedules or transitioned to working from home full-time, the need for a functional home office has become clear.
Our lives are constantly evolving, and our spaces should evolve with us. Whether you’re carving out a dedicated workspace in a spare room or getting creative with a corner of your living room, creating a home office that works for you and looks great on Zoom calls is possible. Let’s dive into how!
Common Challenges in Home Office Setup
Setting up a home office isn't without its hurdles. Here are some common challenges we often see as Professional Organizers in Edmonton:
Overwhelmed with Paperwork: It’s incredible how fast documents can pile up, creating messy spaces and leaving you stressed.
Lack of Space and Storage: Limited room often leads to disorganized spaces simply because there isn't a system or spot for everything.
Poor Layouts:Â From distracting video call backgrounds to awkward lighting, an awkward layout can disrupt your workflow.
Unclear Purpose: When an office doubles as a guest room or shared space, it can feel like the room doesn’t know what it’s supposed to be. Before you know it, you've got a home office that is also a storage unit for art supplies and your teenager's old skates.
Let’s explore how to get started with your organizing your home office!
This mom, professional and student had a lot on her plate. We created a simplified home office where she can be inspired to write and work.
Expert Tips for a Functional Home Office
To overcome the above challenges, focus on creating a clear vision for your space and introducing simple systems to keep things tidy and stress-free. Here's how:
1. Define Your Organizing Vision
Before organizing or decluttering, get clear on what you want from your space. A clear vision will help you determine what belongs in your home office and what doesn't. Gain clarity for your space by downloading our free Vision Worksheet!
2. Use Closed Storage
Closets, cabinets with doors, or opaque totes with lids are your best friends. They’ll add storage while keeping things out of sight, creating a clean look that is perfect for video calls.
3. Keep Your Desktop Organized
If possible, opt for a desk with drawers to keep pens, notepads, and office supplies handy while your workspace stays clear. (Check out this IKEA Helmer drawer unit for inspiration.)
4. Tame Paper Clutter
Deal with documents as soon as you're done with them to avoid piles stacking up:
File: Organize important paperwork that you need to keep.
Recycle:Â Have a recycle bin on hand for general papers that can be tossed.
Shred:Â Have a shredder ready in your office to dispose of paperwork with sensitive information on the spot!
5. Schedule a Weekly Reset
Dedicate 10 minutes at the start or end of each work week to tidy up your workspace. This simple habit can set you up for a productive week ahead!
Here is a little look at my home office that I had the pleasure of redesigning last year with the help of Reclaiming Home.
Every workspace is as unique as the person using it, and finding what works best for you is part of the journey. Start small by getting clear on your vision for your space. Next, work on tackling one drawer, one shelf, or one pile of papers. Celebrate your progress along the way, and remember—you don’t have to do it all at once! If you need a helping hand or expert advice, reach out to us at Sort & Simple. Together, we can turn your home office into a space you love working in every day!
A well-organized home office isn’t just about looks (though it will look great too!) It improves focus, enhances productivity, and helps maintain work-life boundaries.
Are you ready to transform your home office?
Let's make it happen! Contact us —we’re here to make organizing
stress-free and sustainable for you and your home.
About the Author
Kaytlyn Beakhouse is the Lead Organizer at Sort & Simple Professional Organizing. With a passion for simplicity and efficiency, her team brings flow and function to any space.
Contact Sort & Simple today!
