6 Items to Buy to Turn Your Office into a Creative Sanctuary
Latifah Muhammad
Working from home isn’t always easy. In fact, it’s probably harder for some people to stay productive without being in a traditional office space. Not to worry, we’ve put together a list of must-have items that will help boost your creativity and improve your mood, no matter where you work.
The items below were selected with filmmakers, writers, and other creatives in mind, but regardless of your job title, adding something as small as a plant, or an ergonomic desk chair, can help make you feel more creative and inspired. And feeling better can maximize your productivity so that you have a better work day overall. Curating a positive work environment should be a priority for any employer, but having your own office gives you the chance to make a space dedicated to making you feel happier while you work, enhancing your creativity and lowering your stress level. See below for the office essentials that will turn your office into a creative sanctuary.
Ergonomic Office Furniture
The term itself feels a little intimidating, but ergonomics are one of the staples of a comfortable and productive space. If you spend a lot of time in front of the computer, you’ll want to invest in a desk and office chair that promotes good posture, and relieves some of the strain on your back, neck, and shoulders. Picking the right desk and chair combination can take some time, but if you want to get the ball rolling you can start with an ergonomic office chair like the one below.
Branch Furniture Ergonomic Desk Chair
This ergonomic chair features a high-density cushion designed to accommodate people of many different shapes and sizes (it can sustain up to 300 pounds). Made from breathable fabric, the desk chair features double-layered nylon mesh, seven adjustment points, three-way adjustable armrests, tilt lock and hybrid casters, and, of course, lumbar support. If you’re interested in more variety, check out our best office chairs and standing desks.
Office Sofas and Lounge Chairs
It might be a bit of a splurge, but if you have the room, why not add a sofa to your office? When shopping for the right sofa, you’ll want it to be comfy but not so comfortable that you fall asleep on the job. Also, walking between the desk and sofa allows you to stretch your legs which is another great benefit that can help with productivity.
Valeria 65.5” Square Arm Sofa
This Valeria 65.6″ arm sofa will fit nicely in a small office space. The mid-century modern design makes a nice addition to any room, and if you have clients dropping buy, they’ll have comfortable seating. It’s built over a solid wood base, and upholstered with polyester and foam filing in the seating. You can get this couch in a bunch of different colors including cherry red, charcoal grey, and midnight black. If you’re not interested in a sofa, this stylish lounge chair is another way to go.
Invest in Plants
Studies have shown that having plants around can help spark creativity. Beyond the mental benefits, plants can brighten up a space, and maybe even help you feel more grounded. Known for its thick green leaves, the ZZ plant (a.k.a. Zamioculcas Zamiifolia) is a native to East Africa, and makes a great starter plant for your office.
The ZZ Plants
Because ZZ plants evolved in drier areas, they don’t take much maintenance (you only have to water it every two or three weeks), they’re beautiful to look at, and they work as a natural air purifier. This potted ZZ plant comes in small and medium sizes. Also, the customizable planters are available in black, terra cotta, blush, cream, and mint.
Declutter: Desk Organizers, and Bookshelves are Your Friend
Decluttering is probably one of the more important steps on the road to a creative sanctuary. Too much clutter clouds your mind and brings your mood down, which is why you want to stay as organized as possible. Desk organizers are great to keep your office necessities in order, and raising your laptop or computer monitor can help avoid tension on your shoulders and neck.
Herdzi Monitor Stand Riser with Drawers, Desktop or Laptop Stand
The Herdzi desktop doesn’t just put your computer on a pedestal, it features two drawers, a space for your smartphone, stationery, or glasses, and a spot for a small coffee cup. If you happen to have a lot of books, or Blu-Rays, DVDs or CDs, see our list of best media cabinets and more desk organizers.
Aromatherapy Works Wonders
Unless you work from home, you’re probably not able to light candles during the work day, but there are other ways to get a calming effect without pyrotechnics and aromatherapy is one of them. If you don’t know where to start, lavender is probably one of the better known scents designed to decrease stress and anxiety, which can result in a spark creativity.
NEOM Organics De-Stress Candle
The NEOM Organics Scent to De-Stress candle, blends 24 all-natural essential oils including lavender, Brazilian rosewood, and jasmine. These great scents can help you relax and unwind and maybe get the wheels turning if you have writer’s block. If you don’t want a candle, try an essential oil diffuser, which humidifies the air around you while releasing a nice fragrance.
Stay Inspired with Motivational Wall Art
It’s not always easy to find motivation to get things done, especially after the mental rollercoaster that was 2020. That said, finding pockets of inspirations here and there can encourage positive mental health, and ultimately help make you more creative. Furthermore, art has played a huge part in healing and motiving people, so go ahead and add some art work to your office.
Ikonick Mindset Open Book Canvas Art
This Mindset Open Book canvas wall art by Ikonick comes in four different sizes, the smallest being 18″ x 12.” The canvas was made with water-based HP latex ink, and features eco friendly composite woods frames. If you’re looking for something smaller that fits right on your desk, buy an inspirational desk accessory, or books to keep you inspired.
