Home Office Decor + Organization

5 Ways to Organize a Home Office

Organizing a home office can seem like an impossible chore if you don't know where to start. To help you create a more efficient workspace, we at west elm have put together this list of home office organization ideas. Keep reading to learn how to create a home office space that functions as well as it looks.

1. Keep Clutter to a Minimum

A disorganized, clutter-filled office isn't just an eyesore -- it can actually drain your mental energy and lead to reduced productivity. According to Feng Shui principles, the proper organization of a space can help enhance creativity, stimulate positive energy and even increase your wealth. Your desk is where most of the important work in your business takes place, so it's important to keep this vital space as neat as possible. Use mail trays, drawer dividers and pen cups to organize small items on your desk and keep essential supplies within easy reach. Large items that are used less frequently can be placed on wheeled carts and stored under the desk. Keep office clutter down by scheduling time once a week to discard sticky notes, unneeded documents and old bulletin board items. Or, eliminate paper altogether by moving your physical files to digital storage.

2. Make Use of Labels

It may sound like a no-brainer, but good home office organization means knowing where to find what you need when you need it. One of the best ways to keep track of all of your boxes, drawers and files is to use labels. If you don't have a label maker, you can use colored stick-on labels or even gift tags to identify the contents of bins, containers and cabinets. Another way to use labels in a home office is to color-code the ends of your power cords so you can keep track of which cord is attached to each device.

3. Organize Your Workspace in Zones

When deciding on a layout for your workspace, consider designating different areas for different tasks. You could, for example, have separate spaces for photocopying, production, order packing and client meetings. Dividing your workspace into zones not only helps keep clutter down, but it can also improve workflow. When creating zones, it's important to ensure you have access to all of the tools and utilities needed to complete tasks in each area. Are there enough power outlets in the photocopy zone? Is the WiFi signal strong enough in the meeting zone? Taking some time to think about the best placement of your furniture and equipment will help you create a home office that functions as well as it looks.

4. Choose the Right Storage Options

When it comes to organizing a home office, choosing the right types of storage is key. If you're using a spare bedroom as an office, take advantage of the closet space to store your office supplies. If there is no closet, shelving units and moveable filing cabinets will help you make the most of your floor space. Another way to maximize your storage options is to utilize your wall space. Hanging files, cork boards, peg boards and floating shelves are just a few wall storage options to consider.

5. Use Multipurpose Furniture

A good way to maximize the space in a small home office is to use multipurpose furnishings. An office desk with built-in shelves, for instance, can function as both a workspace and a vertical storage solution. A desk with built-in filing cabinets is another example of furniture that serves more than one function. A storage ottoman can double as a filing cabinet -- simply install a couple of tracks for hanging file folders. Need a wider work surface? A caddy on wheels can be used as a desktop extension during work hours and rolled under your desk when not in use. Regardless of the size of your office, you can create a more streamlined workspace by selecting a few multifunctional pieces of furniture that serve you just as well as standalone pieces.

Whether you work from home or simply want a more organized space for sorting household bills and paperwork, the above tips will help you help you create an energizing space that motivates you to get your work done. Remember -- the more efficient your home office, the less time you'll need to spend there working.