Property Management

6 Tips for an Effective Work From Home Setup Design

January 19, 2024

Discover the secrets to creating an effective work-from-home setup with Summer's expert tips. Explore ergonomic designs, stylish decor, and productivity-boosting layouts in 6 tips from our design experts, along with examples that are perfect for remote workers and property owners alike! Learn about Summer's solutions to help you boost your short term rental performance.

In this article

In today's ever-evolving professional landscape, the shift towards remote work has not just been a trend but a revolution. As we embrace this new norm, the importance of a well-designed work-from-home setup has become paramount. A home office is more than just a space—it's a breeding ground for productivity, creativity, and comfort and should be designed as such. Whether you're a seasoned remote worker or newly adapting to this lifestyle, strategic thought about the best work from home setup designs will help you curate a space that you'll be eager to 'write home about. 

The Importance of a Good Work From Home Setup

The distinction between a dedicated home office and makeshift workspaces like the couch or kitchen table is more than just physical—it's psychological and functional. A well-appointed home office provides a distinct, professional environment that signals your brain it's time for work, fostering a deeper focus and greater productivity. This separation is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, as it physically demarcates where professional responsibilities begin and end. Conversely, working from a couch or kitchen not only blurs these boundaries but often leads to postural issues and distractions that can impede workflow and efficiency. Furthermore, a personalized office space, tailored to individual ergonomic and aesthetic needs, enhances motivation and reduces the mental fatigue associated with less structured environments. In essence, a home office is not just a luxury; it's a vital component of a successful remote work strategy, enabling professionals to achieve peak performance while nurturing their well-being.

6 Tips for an Effective Work From Home Setup Design

At Summer our expert designers have compiled a list of the most important design tips for an effective work from home setup. Discover these tips and examples below in addition to the ways Summer can streamline and elevate your vacation home to maximize results. Learn more about Summer here.

1) Choosing the Right Location: 

The first step in creating an effective home office design is selecting the right space in your home. This location should be a sanctuary of quiet and privacy, ideally with a door to shut out the day-to-day bustle of household life. A well-chosen spot not only ensures minimal distractions but also enhances your ability to focus during Zoom meetings or when engaging in deep work. Whether it's a dedicated room or a cozy nook in your living room, the key is to find a space that aligns with your work style and daily requirements, making it easier to concentrate and stay productive.

"Working from one of the homes within the Summer network has always been a breeze; our design team has created cozy, beautifully-lit work stations featuring high-quality, durable, chic desks, comfortable chairs, and, oftentimes, beautiful nature views! My personal favorite Summer #WFH setup is at our Ford Hill property in Hunter." - Brooke E. Lima, Summer's Manager of Marketing & Content

2) Comfortable Chair and Desk: 

Investing in ergonomic home office setup ideas is crucial for long-term comfort and health. A high-quality office chair that supports your back and arms is essential for preventing strain during extended work periods. Pair this with an adjustable desk, preferably height adjustable, to maintain proper posture and avoid wrist pain. This combination not only contributes to a more comfortable work experience but also ensures a sustainable and health-conscious work environment in your home.

The work-from-home setup at Ford Hill by Summer in Hunter, NY features a desk with plenty of storage, as well as a beautiful undisturbed view of the home's expensive property and fire-pit.

3) Proper Lighting: 

Lighting plays a pivotal role in your home office space. Proper lighting, especially natural light, significantly reduces eye strain and boosts productivity. If natural light isn't abundant, incorporating a high-quality task lamp that emits bright, even lighting is a wise investment. This attention to lighting not only creates a more pleasant work environment but also enhances focus and efficiency, crucial for those detail-oriented tasks.

The work-from-home setup at Park Avenue by Summer in Park City, UT. Although not situated with a window as its direct backdrop, the desk is placed next to a large window for natural light.

4) Organization and Clutter-Free Space: 

A tidy and organized workspace is essential for a functional and stress-free home office. Utilize smart storage solutions like filing cabinets, shelves, and desk organizers to keep your space orderly. A clutter-free desk not only promotes a clear mind but also keeps essential items like keyboards and mouses within easy reach, contributing to a more efficient and productive work environment. Remember, a clean space is a productive space!

The work-from-home setup at Treasure Drive by Summer in Miami, FL features a work station with tons of bright, natural light and desk storage, as well as a seating area and extra shelving.

5) Calming Colors:

The color palette of your home office can significantly impact your mood and focus. Opt for calming, neutral colors that soothe the mind and minimize distractions. Light browns, warm off-whites, or even muted earthy tones are excellent choices for creating a tranquil and focused atmosphere. These colors not only make the space visually appealing but also contribute to a serene environment, conducive to concentration and creative thinking.

The second work station at Treasure Drive by Summer features a neutral palette with some pops of color.

6) Create a unique space (and Zoom background): 

Crafting a work-from-home space that exudes style and uniqueness is vital in creating an environment that is not only enjoyable to be in but also professional and captivating on camera. Consider designing a space that offers a distinctive yet non-distracting backdrop for Zoom meetings. This could involve tasteful artwork, an elegant arrangement of plants, or unique decorative pieces that add character without overwhelming the visual field. The goal is to strike a balance between unique flair and professional appeal, ensuring that the workspace is both a reflection of sophisticated taste and a conducive setting for virtual interactions. A well-designed home office with a carefully curated background can make all the difference in creating a memorable and pleasant experience for both the renter and their virtual colleagues or clients. 

Lanesville by Summer in the Catskills has a home-office setup conducive to both focus & personalization, with artwork chosen by our member, a cozy seating area for breaks, and a desk with a deep drawer for organization.

Each of these elements plays a crucial role in creating a home office that's not just functional but also a joy to work in. From the right furniture like a standing desk and ergonomic office chair to the thoughtful use of colors and personal touches, every detail contributes to a workspace that’s conducive to productivity and well-being. Whether you're attending video calls, using noise-canceling headphones for deep concentration, or simply enjoying the comfort of your own space, these functional designs ensure your home office is a place where work feels less like a chore and more like a part of your lifestyle.

A Good Work From Home Setup Design Boosts Short Term Rental Performance

Integrating a well-designed work-from-home setup in short-term rental homes offers a significant competitive advantage in today's rental market. As remote work becomes increasingly common, travelers are seeking accommodations that cater not only to their leisure needs but also to their professional requirements. A rental property featuring a dedicated, ergonomically sound workspace can be a major draw for guests who need to balance work with travel. It promises the dual benefit of a change in scenery without the compromise on productivity. Such a setup can increase the appeal of a property, making it attractive to a broader range of guests, including business professionals, digital nomads, and even families needing separate work areas. This consideration can lead to higher occupancy rates, the ability to charge premium rates, and glowing reviews from guests who appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of a comfortable, functional work area in their temporary home. In essence, a good work-from-home setup in a short-term rental is not just an amenity; it's a strategic investment in the property's marketability and guest satisfaction.

Summer’s Expertise in Effective Home Office Design Setup

Summer’s expertise in work-from-home design setup is distinctively marked by a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Summer’s design experts specialize in crafting spaces that are not just visually stunning but also exceptionally conducive to productivity. This involves creating environments that are ergonomic, well-lit, and free from distractions, ensuring that each space is both a stylish and practical place for work. By focusing on useful, stylish designs setups that cater to the demands of a home office, we can ensure that guests have a positive guest experience, especially a place to find focus and productivity under the pressures of work. A positive experience and a reputation to cater to the needs of guests working from home during their stay will ensure repeat bookings in the future. 

How Summer Can Help

Summer’s design service is more than an aesthetic enhancement; it's a strategic tool designed to increase rental income and enhance the guest experience. From optimizing hundreds of rentals, our team of design and STR experts have the tool, connections, and experience to make thoughtful and impactful recommendations, in addition to steering clear of ineffective recommendations and costly designers upselling their services. Click here to learn more about Summer’s services.

Looking for an easy, affordable way to elevate your vacation rental? Book a free consultation with Summer’s design experts today. 

About Summer

Summer offers innovative solutions designed to streamline and enhance the vacation rental experience for both property owners and guests. Central to their offerings is a professional interior design service tailored for short-term rentals, ensuring properties are not only visually appealing but also functional and guest-friendly. This service extends from conceptual design to furniture sourcing, with a keen focus on creating spaces that attract positive reviews and repeat bookings. 

In addition to design services, Summer excels in comprehensive property management and flexible financing options, aiding property owners in renovations and cash flow management. Visit gosummer.com to learn more.

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