Creating a Productive Workspace in Your Newcastle Apartment
These days, having a productive workspace at home has never been more important. Since the COVID outbreak, more people than ever are working from home. In 2019, prior to the COVID pandemic, just 4.7% of UK employees worked from home, but by April 2020, 46.6% of employees did at least part of their job from home. For those living in a Newcastle apartment, setting up an efficient home office can make all the difference. Whether you’re working from a studio, one or two bedroom apartment, we can help you find what you need to make your Newcastle apartment feel like home. Here we will look at how to create an effective workspace, balance work and home life, and maximise productivity in small spaces, ensuring that your home becomes a haven for both living and working.
Setting Up a Home Office
What is it that you need to get the ball rolling? Is it a good supportive chair? Or a nice organised set up? Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when setting up your home office in your Newcastle student accommodation:
Choosing the Right Location
Selecting the perfect spot for your home office is the first step in your student accommodation. Look for a quiet, well-lit area in your apartment where you can focus without constant interruptions. Natural light is beneficial for maintaining energy levels and reducing eye strain, so positioning your desk near a window can be a good shout! It's also essential to establish a clear boundary between your work and personal spaces to maintain a healthy work-life balance. You need a bit of separation from your work and home life. In smaller apartments, using space effectively is key; consider corners, alcoves, or even converting a closet into a compact office.
Essential Office Furniture and Equipment
A pro study tip – Having the right furniture, amenities and equipment is the next step when it comes to creating a productive workspace. Here are some must-have items:
🪑Adjustable desk and chair: Ensure your desk and chair are adjustable to promote good posture and comfort.
📦Shelving units for storage: These help keep your workspace organised and clutter-free.
🗄️Compact filing cabinets: Ideal for storing documents and keeping your desk tidy.
Investing in ergonomic furniture is particularly important for your health and productivity. Look for affordable and space-saving options that fit well within your apartment. For instance, a height-adjustable desk can provide flexibility, while wall-mounted shelves save floor space. When preparing to move to university, knowing what to pack for university will help packing ease the transition and ensure you have everything you need. If you need any support as a first time renter, reach out to M Apartments. We're here to help you find your dream apartment and make it a home. Check out renter-friendly ways to decorate your home.
Balancing Work and Home Life
Balancing work and home life is mega important to stay productive and happy while working from home. You want to be able to work, live and play in Newcastle, so here’s how! Setting clear boundaries, managing distractions, and having a routine that includes downtime can make a huge difference. It’s all about keeping your home a place where you can smash your work goals and still relax and unwind.
Setting Boundaries
Establishing clear boundaries will help to maintain a balance between work and personal life. Here are some strategies:
- Define specific work hours: Stick to a consistent schedule to create a routine.
- Create a dedicated workspace: Avoid working from your bed or couch to separate work from relaxation areas.
- Communicate boundaries: Let family or flatmates know about your work hours and the importance of minimising interruptions during these times.
Creating a daily routine that includes breaks and relaxation is equally important. Schedule regular intervals for stretching, meals, and short walks to stay refreshed and avoid burnout. If you fancy hitting the gym first thing in the morning, schedule it into your day. Find your routine and work towards sticking to it.
Managing Distractions
Working from home often comes with various distractions. Whether you’re city co-living or sharing an apartment with your friends, distractions come and go. It might be that you and your flatmate are on different schedules or that the music in the communal kitchen is too loud. If you’re sharing your living space, you will have to deal with it. Here are a few techniques to help you stay focused:
✔️Identify common distractions: These could include household chores, family members, flatmates or interruptions.
✔️Minimise interruptions and disputes: If you’re flatmates are planning on hosting, consider investingt in noise-cancelling headphones, and establish clear communication with those around you about your need for uninterrupted work time. Let people know what times you will be free to avoid anyone barging into your room and interrupting your flow of work.
Maximising Productivity in Small Spaces
It’s all about maximising your space in your Newcastle studio or apartment. You might be wondering - what’s the right size apartment for you? You can make even the smallest spaces work by being smart with your setup. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your apartment:
Space Optimisation Techniques
Maximising productivity in small apartment spaces requires smart use of space. Here are some tips
Storage Solution: | Description: |
Multifunctional furniture | Items like a desk that doubles as a dining table can save space. |
Creative storage solutions | Use baskets, boxes, and drawer organisers to keep everything in its place. |
Vertical space | Utilise wall-mounted shelves and hooks to keep your floor area clear. |
Time Management Strategies
Effective time management is vital for productivity.
✔️Use of calendars and planners: Plan your day and keep track of deadlines.
✔️Task management apps: Tools like Monday, Motion, or Notion help organise tasks and projects.
✔️Time blocking technique: Allocate specific times for different tasks to maintain focus.
Health and Well-being Considerations
Maintaining physical and mental health while working from home is key because sometimes it can get lonely. We’re here to make sure that doesn’t happen – Here are some tips:
👉Take regular breaks: Stand up and move around every hour to prevent stiffness and eye strain. Treat yourself and grab a cuppa tea or coffee while you’re up!
👉Incorporate physical activity: Simple exercises or stretching can improve circulation and reduce fatigue. Get out the flat for a bit, spend time with some friends – you’ll feel miles better for it, trust us.
👉Practice mindfulness: Techniques like meditation or deep breathing can reduce stress and improve focus. Often people like to start their day this way to help them get a fresh start.
When it comes to creating a productive workspace, it doesn’t need to be hard! There are many ways to add personality to your office space while ensuring you balance work and home life. Focus on saving space and improving time management to keep your productivity in check. If you need a little help in your transition or have any questions, please get in touch with us at M Apartments! We’re a leading letting agent in Newcastle, you’re in safe hands, we promise. If you need help making your new apartment a home, don’t be shy! We’ll help you out. Contact us today.
