Home office makeover

*Put your desk in front of a window as plenty of natural light significantly increases energy, creativity and productivity. Wood or faux wood venetian blinds are perfect for home office windows as they filter the light to minimise glare on your computer and the slats can be adjusted to control light levels as the sun moves round during the day. Add Roman blinds soften the look

*It doesn’t have to cost the earth to decorate your office. Charity shop and car boot sales are perfect hunting grounds for quirky, vintage pieces or why not indulge in some DIY. Cover plain cardboard box files with wallpaper or fabric. Make a pinboard made from a wooden picture frame, foam and fabric so you can display photos, to do lists or any other information you want to see at a glance.

*Make your office a little more eco-friendly with a desk made from reclaimed scaffolding boards and simple trestle legs. Scaffolding boards can be picked up cheaply from a salvage yard.

*It’s been proven that plants in the workplace can reduce stress levels and increase productivity. Aside from these health benefits, plants are a cheap and cheerful way to add decoration and bring a lovely touch of nature into your home office. I like ferns or ivy and avoid cacti w

*A cluttered workplace can be depressing and distracting so get creative with your storage. I’ve used soft, floaty voile curtains to cover up a shelving unit.

*As tempting as it sounds, dragging a chair from the dining room, or a stool in from the kitchen is a false economy. An ergonomic chair may not give you the designer look but your back will thank you for it. And you can pretty it up with a cosy sheepskin or throw. Rest your forearms on the desk while typing and invest in a simple foot rest to ensure you sit with legs at a comfortable 90 degree angle to the floor.

*Pictures and photographs can be a great way to inspire creativity and a feeling of wellness. Pick out three or four that are significant and make sure those are in your view. However, the more stuff you add to your desk, the more your brain has to keep track of. Working in a crowded space can be mentally exhausting, even if you don’t realise it.*

*Your desk is for active work, but you probably need a place to read, take a break or just have a cup of coffee. A comfy chair or sofa is a great addition if you have the space.