DON’T HAVE A HOME OFFICE? 7 WAYS TO CREATE A TRANSIENT WORKSPACE
By Nicole Fuge
Working from home is the new norm for so many of us, offering that perfect mix of flexibility and freedom. But what if you don’t have a dedicated office space? Whether you’re living in a cosy apartment, sharing space with family, or just not keen on committing to a permanent office setup, you can still create a flexible workspace that helps you stay productive and comfy. Here’s how to make it work—no matter what your space looks like.
1. Define Your Work Zones
When working from home without a dedicated office, defining specific work zones can help establish boundaries between work and leisure. Consider the following spaces for your temporary office:
Dining table – A classic go-to for remote workers, but be sure to clear it after work to maintain the distinction between professional and personal life.
Living room corner – A quiet corner with a comfortable chair and a small side table can double as a productive nook.
Bedroom desk setup – If space allows, a compact desk in the bedroom can serve as a work area during the day and blend seamlessly with your room decor.
Outdoor areas – If you have a balcony, patio, or backyard, setting up an outdoor workspace can provide fresh air and inspiration.
2. Choose Portable and Space-Saving Furniture
Since a transient workspace needs to be flexible, opt for furniture that is portable, collapsible, or multipurpose. Here are some great options:
Foldable desk – Lightweight and easy to stow away when not in use.
Rolling cart – Can store office essentials and be moved from room to room as needed.
Lap desk – Ideal for working from the couch or bed without sacrificing posture.
Stackable storage bins – Keep work-related items organised and tuck them away after hours.
3. Create a Distraction-Free Environment
One of the biggest challenges of working without a home office is minimising distractions. Consider these tips to enhance focus:
Noise-cancelling headphones – Block out background noise and create a focused work atmosphere.
Room dividers – A folding screen or curtain can section off your workspace, offering a psychological cue that it's work time.
Visual cues – Set up a specific chair, lamp, or desk mat that signals “work mode” when in use.
Establish a routine – Stick to set work hours and take breaks in designated areas away from your workspace.
4. Ensure Good Ergonomics
A temporary workspace shouldn’t mean compromising on comfort. Poor posture can lead to strain and fatigue, so invest in ergonomic essentials:
Adjustable laptop stand – Brings the screen to eye level to reduce neck strain.
External keyboard and mouse – Helps maintain proper arm and wrist positioning.
Supportive chair or cushion – A lumbar support cushion can transform an ordinary chair into an ergonomic seat.
Proper lighting – Natural light is best, but if unavailable, use a desk lamp with a warm, adjustable glow to reduce eye strain.
5. Optimise for Productivity and Efficiency
Without a designated office, staying organised is key to productivity. Use these strategies to keep your workspace efficient:
Declutter daily – At the end of the workday, pack away work materials to maintain a tidy space.
Use digital tools – Apps like Trello, Asana, or Notion help keep tasks and projects organised.
Time management techniques – The Pomodoro Technique (working in 25-minute intervals) or time blocking can help improve focus and prevent burnout.
Wireless accessories – A wireless keyboard, mouse, and headset reduce cord clutter and make it easy to move between spaces.
6. Personalise Your Workspace
Even if your setup is temporary, adding a personal touch can make it more inviting and enjoyable:
Plants – Small indoor plants boost mood and improve air quality.
Inspirational quotes or vision board – Keeps motivation high.
Scented candles or essential oils – Lavender or citrus scents can enhance concentration and relaxation.
Background ambience – Instrumental music, nature sounds, or white noise can create a conducive work atmosphere.
7. Pack It Away When You’re Done
One of the perks of a transient workspace is its flexibility. At the end of your workday, pack away your tools and reclaim the space for personal use. Here’s how:
Use a storage box or tote bag – Store your laptop, notebooks, and accessories for easy transport.
Designate a shelf or cabinet – Keep work essentials in one place to make setup quick and seamless.
Power down electronics – Turning off devices helps signal the transition from work to relaxation.
MUSE PAPER
ISSUE 02