Lifestyles are constantly evolving, and more people are finding a need for an at-home work space. With small-space living on the rise, you might be discovering new challenges when trying to create multi-functional areas that work for you.
To help maximize the use of every space, we wanted to create a guide for creating a two-person work space in your home. This could be perfect if you share a room with your sibling, both you and your partner work from home or if you are starting a small business. Find inspiration to create a home office that will keep you and your at-home co-worker productive.
Let’s Get to Work!
Here are some ways to stay productive throughout the day while navigating a shared work space:
Have a Designated Work Area
Even though you are working from home, it’s important to separate work time from down time. If you don’t have the space for a home office, still go the extra step at the end of the day to ensure you are logged off from the job. Clear off your workspace and turn off all work-related electronics. And we suggest not working in the comfort of your bed, it could negatively impact your sleep schedule.
Set a Schedule
Working from home with a partner could be great, but might also lead to distractions. Keep normal business hours to ensure you are meeting all necessary deadlines.
Take Breaks When You Need
It’s ok to have a chat with your home co-worker to realign your priorities. This could be a great way to alleviate writer’s block or reduce stress. Taking the time to recharge your batteries throughout the day might actually keep you focused and productive in the long run. Maybe try water cooler or coffee breaks as if you were in an actual office environment.
Make it Work For Everyone
Before getting to work on your home-office, here are some things to ponder with your work partner:
- Will either of you be on the phone frequently? If so, this could be a distraction to the other’s work productivity.
- Do you have similar style preferences? Be prepared to make some compromises when it comes to the aesthetic of the space! Sharing a vision is caring for each other.
- What organization habits do each of you keep? If one person has more chaotic work habits, while the other is more methodical, consider how those differences may effect your day-to-day efficiency if you’re sharing supplies.
That said, let’s explore a few ideas on how you can maximize the use of your work area and usher in productivity at the same time.
Urban Workspace for Two
- Placing two L-shaped desks together, or using one L-shaped desk and a matching standing desk, is both trendy and effective at providing separate yet cohesive workspaces.
- Mounting wall shelves will help you save on desk space, and mitigate any incoming clutter.
- Be sure to express both of your tastes! It’s a workspace—not a dungeon. Utilize wall art and decor accents that inspire each of you.
- Any reminders of upcoming appointments are perfect on a chalkboard or corkboard; that way, you’re both kept informed of each other’s schedules.
- Urban style is versatile, and accentuates neutral-toned decor with pops of color effortlessly. You can go bold, or stick to dark metal and wood for that industrial vibe.
Chic Workspace for Two
- Keeping your space light and bright—with just a touch of girly-girl—is the perfect setup for roommates.
- Using a screen to divide two L-shaped desks is a chic way to eliminate distractions caused by the other person’s movements and activities.
- Integrating plants and greenery (even if they’re not real) can help boost your mood during work.
- Keep a file cabinet close at hand so important documents and papers are at-the-ready.
- Matching chairs can make your white workspace more cohesive, and embody elegance.
Traditional Workspace for Two
- No matter what kind of desks you have, you can place them side-by-side or, for more efficiency, add a storage system in-between so it’s easily accessible for both parties.
- Enlisting symmetry in your space—especially with wall art and table lamps—can create a harmonious work area so you can focus on what’s important.
- Storage chests are a perfect complement to a bookcase for important documents.
- Need to prop up your feet? Having a pouf close by will come in handy for that.
- Keep mementos, sculptures or documents you’re currently working on in the desk’s open shelving so it’s at-the-ready for you.
Bohemian Workspace for Two
- When it comes to boho, never be afraid to mix and match colors, patterns and styles.
- Having a gallery wall of both of your favorite pieces shows off personality and flair. If you’re wondering how to create a gallery wall, feel free to check out our blog on it here!
- Additional lighting, such as string lights or table lamps, can add to the calming ambiance and allow you to reduce eye strain while on the computer.
- Having chairs with a pop of color will inject vibrancy into your workspace, and stand out from the wood of desks and other storage furnishings.
- Accessorize with stylish vases or sculptures on your bookcase for even more eye-catching oomph.
Minimalist Workspace for Two
- Making less is more count means everything needs a place—and having desks flush face to face with additional storage does just the trick. This is especially handy if you work together, and need to collaborate in order to get projects done.
- Having an accent table with caster wheels means you can cart paperwork away when you don’t need it and have it by your side when you do.
- Sticking with soft neutrals reduces distraction so you can make work time count.
- Opting for textures instead of bright colors, like this jute weave rug, will ensure your room isn’t bland or boring.
- Keep the tools you need frequently close at hand and stow everything else so your mind stays clear.
Do you have a shared work space? If so, we’d love for you to share your tips and tricks in the comments below. Or showcase your space on Instagram using #MyAshleyHome. You might even see your interior design creation on our feed. For more inspiration, browse our Pinterest boards.
