apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

1. A Great Chair: In our many years of computer usage, we've discovered one thing is true. You can have the best job in the world, but if your chair is uncomfortable, you spend your day slightly annoyed, frustrated and achy! Office chairs can range from high to low, but no matter what the price point, all that matters is that you can sit in it for more than an hour or two. We've had some well loved Steelcase chairs and some higher end chairs that have worked beautifully, it really depends on the person, how they're built, and how they'll be using the space. But comfort, hands down, starts here.

2. Layered Lighting: Overhead lighting and computer monitors just aren't a great combination. Adding in a desk top lamp can do wonders to relieve eye strain and to create some additional warmth to a room that can typically feel cold and overly electronic. Some spaces work well with adjustable height task lamps, while others do great with more conventional styles. Try making the bottom of your lampshade just higher than the height of your monitor. It will go a long ways to producing the most light possible without overpowering your screen.

3. Floor Coverings: The quickest way to warm up a room (besides throwing open the windows) is with a rug. Now were always frustrated when we see magazine showrooms where there's carpet, rugs and all other sorts of things to collect static! It just doesn't seem practical, so if you aren't so keen with throwing down a rug, maybe try some throw pillows instead. It will still make things feel a little softer without the static worries!

4. Artwork: Visually stimulating spaces breed creativity. At the same time, they can also end up distracting, depending on how busy you make things. Pick pieces with only a few colors in them (even if they are bright or bold) to help keep you focused instead of day dreaming! This is a great place to rotate art if you are short on space to display all of your finds.

5. Safe Beverage Spot: We mentioned coasters that are super at absorbing moisture a few weeks ago for good reason! It doesn't matter if it's morning, noon or night, it seems that work is just done better with a great beverage. Hot coffee can harm finishes on tables and cold sweaty beverages can be a puddle-y mess! Make a safe spot for drinks (or a small snack) to sit where it won't be tipped over or bumped, even if accidentally.

6. Wires Under Control: We've tackled the topic of wire clutter and control, time and time again, but a desk where you aren't fighting for space from your wires is a good desk! Even if you aren't willing to commit to a permanent solution just yet, making sure they are out of the way of your mouse is a big bonus! For laptop users, it's also nice to find something to keep your cables on top of your desk when you unplug each time. It's never fun to play "Dig Behind The Desk" each time to track them down again!

7. Temperature Control: It doesn't matter if it's Spring, Summer, Winter or Fall, the temperature in your office is important! Be it too hot or too cold, adding or subtracting clothes will only get you so far. Try adding a small space heater or desktop fan for some relief.

8. Add A Plant: Plants are a natural air filter and even if they are too small to do much good in that department, they still bring what other objects in your home office can't. Life. If you don't have enough light to sustain a potted plant, try just a few stems of fresh flowers or even making your own!

(Image: Flickr Member blupics licensed for use under Creative Commons)