Design & Décor Tips
Read these 11 Design & Décor Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Office tips and hundreds of other topics.
Give That Bookcase a Break
Store the heaviest stuff on the bottom or lowest shelves of your bookcase. Keep frequently used items on middle shelves and put the lightest and infrequently used items on upper shelves. (This advice applies all the more if your bookcases are inexpensive or economy grade.)
Task Lighting
Task lighting (which directs lights where your vision will be concentrated) should shine over the shoulder opposite your writing hand so that your writing hand won't cast shadows on your work. Note: Flourescent bulbs cast less of a shadow than incandescents.
Avoiding Eye Strain
To avoid tired or aching eyes when using your computer, ergonomic experts suggest positioning your monitor 16 to 30 inches away from your eyes, depending on what's comfortable. The monitor should be 4 to 8 inches lower than eye level, so you're looking slightly down towards it. And it should be tilted slightly up, as if it were a book or magazine.
Choose a Comfortable Chair
The more time you will spend sitting in your office, the more important it will be to choose a comfortable chair. Visit several office furniture showrooms and have the salesperson show you various chair models from different manufacturers. Have the salesperson explain and compare features. Read all you can about the benefits and types of ergonomic products, in order to make an informed decision.
Desk Shapes
The traditional L-shaped work station is efficient for tasks that require spreading out large amounts of paperwork. Keep the computer and other desktop gear on one leg of the "L" and the paperwork, office supplies, and phone on the other.
Shopping for Office Space
When looking in to leasing office space it is very important to ask the right questions. Ask about the square footage of the office, the loss factor, net or gross rent, individual metering of utilities, provision for cleaning service, maintenance of heating and air-conditioning systems and office decoration. All these details should be spelled out in a signed contract before any money is exchanged.
Adjustable Chairs for Maximum Comfort
Look for an adjustable seat, a back that tilts for good posture and comfort, and adjustable arms that can be moved as needed. Find a seat that is not too long —it should not hit you behind the knees when your rear is at the back of the chair.
Light Conditions
A mixture of fluorescent and incandescent lighting is most pleasing to (and easiest on) the eyes. Spectrum lighting filters will also help reduce eyestrain.
Buying A Chair
When buying a chair for your office look for a chair with adjustable seat and back that tilt for good posture and comfort. Your chair must accommodate a number of posture changes through the day.
Office Walls
Choose paint shades in pale or muted colors (instead of white) to cut glare. Stay away from bold or busy wallpaper patterns, as strong patterns can be distracting.
Selecting a Broker
When selecting a broker to help you locate office space, find one who specializes in the type of space you desire. For example, small space tenants will get better service from someone who understands small tenant needs. Your broker should assist in identifying your space needs, locating property that best fits those needs, negotiate the best lease possible and explain how that lease could affect you in the future.
