Make Working From Home Work for You!

Let’s start with the dream: a room with a door you can close at the end of the day. If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room, it’s the ultimate way to separate work from home life. But if you don’t, that’s okay! Even a small corner or nook can be transformed into a functional work zone. The key is to claim the space. This might be one end of the dining table, a hallway console, or a spot under the stairs, wherever it is, make it your own.

If your workspace needs to disappear at 5 pm, invest in clever storage. A stylish tray, a rolling file cabinet, or a compact storage box can keep your desk tidy and help you transition out of “work mode.” Out of sight really can mean out of mind when it comes to emails after hours.

Your body will thank you later for setting things up properly. Ergonomics isn’t just office jargon; it’s about making sure your workspace supports you physically throughout the day. Ideally, you want a desk and chair that can be adjusted to suit your height and posture.

Even if your setup is more makeshift—say, a kitchen bench or dining table, there are still ways to improve ergonomics. Try a seat cushion, a laptop stand, or even just stack a few books under your screen to avoid neck strain. Remember, comfort = focus.

Rolling office chairs are super convenient, but they’re not always the best friend of your floors. Whether your space is carpet, such as wool carpet or has hard flooring like timber flooring, vinyl or laminate, constant movement from wheels can lead to wear, scratching or even dents. To avoid this, pop a protective mat under your chair or use felt furniture pads on chair legs. A stylish modern rug or classic styled rug can also add warmth and softness while keeping your floors safe—double win!

Just because it’s your workspace doesn’t mean it should feel sterile or dull. Surround yourself with things you love. That might be artwork you’ve had tucked away, a favourite lamp, or a calming indoor plant. Even small touches like a ceramic pen holder, a patterned mouse pad, or a colourful coaster for your morning coffee can make a big difference. This is your space; let it reflect your personality and make you want to sit down and get started.

If space allows, go a step further. An armchair in the corner, a bookshelf filled with your favourite reads, beautiful round rugs or a floor lamp for softer lighting can turn a basic office into a room you genuinely enjoy spending time in.

Even in the digital age, desk clutter is very real. Pens, chargers, notebooks, the random snack wrappers… it all adds up! A tidy desk doesn’t just look better; it helps you think clearer, too. Try to reset your workspace at the end of each day. Clear away anything that’s not needed and tidy up loose papers or cables. There are plenty of affordable, clever storage solutions available—think cable organisers, desktop trays, and under-desk drawers.

If your workspace is part of a shared area like a living room, keeping it visually tidy is even more important. It’s hard to switch off in the evenings if your laptop and to-do list are still staring at you. Tuck everything away and let your home feel like home again after hours.

Working from home comes with its own set of distractions; family members, housemates, barking dogs, or the neighbour mowing their lawn (again). Soft furnishings like curtains, large rugs and even carpet can help dampen sound and create a quieter, more focused environment. If noise is a major issue, consider adding acoustic panels or using noise-cancelling headphones to stay in the zone.

And don’t underestimate comfort. Ask yourself: Is your chair supportive? Are you too cold or too hot? Is there enough natural light in your workspace? The little things might seem minor but, but they can have a big impact on your ability to concentrate and feel good throughout the day.

With a few thoughtful touches and smart solutions, your home office can become more than just a functional zone, it can be a place you genuinely enjoy. Start with the basics, protect your flooring, add a little personality, and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, productive space… from the floor up.

How should you care for your engineered boards?

All flooring requires some level of maintenance and care to ensure it’s longevity. Regular sweeping or vacuuming to remove grit and sand means it’s less likely to scratch flooring. Encourage a “shoes off” mantra at home to avoid traipsing in dirt. There are some great hard flooring care tips on our website.

What are the benefits of Marlu Oaks engineered boards?

Marlu Oaks engineered boards are wide in design which means there are fewer joins. Installing wider boards adds to a contemporary feel and can create the illusion of space in smaller areas. The colour palette with the range is full of character, meaning there’s a perfect style for any application.

How to stop rugs from moving on wooden floor

Rugs are beautiful additions to any room but if not secured they can become a slip or trip hazard. There are a few ways to deal with this. You can either anchor the rug to the floor with furniture to restrict movement or use a non-slip pad between the floor and the rug.