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The best office chair to buy for working from home [Updated February 2023]
As we all spend more time working from home than ever before it’s crucial to have the right equipment that keeps you comfortable and avoiding repetitive injuries. There’s lots of reasons why we think investing in a good office chair now is a smart idea, but we also know that choosing a new desk chair can be tough. Where should you buy it? How much should it cost, and most importantly, what is the best office chair available (as of 2022)?
As we all spend more time working from home than ever before it’s crucial to have the right equipment that keeps you comfortable and avoiding repetitive injuries. Whether you’re looking for an executive looking chair, or even a desk bike to keep you fit and healthy, there’s lots of reasons why we think investing in a good office chair now is a smart idea, but we also know that choosing a new desk chair can be tough. Where should you buy it? How much should it cost, and most importantly, what is the best office chair available (as of 2022)? At THOL we recommend the following to point you in the right direction, and ensure you don’t waste money on a dud office chair.
Recommended: Best office chair
Autonomous ErgoChair Pro
Fully adjustable, completely supportive, and super breathable. This one has it all.
$499
In our opinion the ErgoChair Pro is the best office chair you can buy right now without breaking the bank. An exceptional and ergonomic design means you’ll be comfortable for years to come even after using it for the 9-5s and even a few sneaky gaming sessions in-between. The ErgoChair Pro comes in six different colour combinations, but the classic ‘Black’ style is our favourite, likely to fit into most home office setups nicely without being too distracting. The ErgoChair Pro comes with all the modern features you’d expect from a $500 office chair, including; adjustable height, armrest, headrest, backrest, and seat tilt, smooth recline with five lockable positions, flexible lumbar support for any seated position, woven mesh back for optimum airflow, 100% earth-friendly materials, and a 2-year warranty.
Autonomous proudly claim the ErgoChair Pro can relieve back pain by reducing fatigue on your lower back and after we’ve been using ours for over a year now we can confirm that it really is as comfortable as you could hope for. Another nice feature is the ability for you to charge the chair to your business for an additional 7% discount, along with all of the usual tax options for your country. For the complete package, we are proud to recommend the Autonomous ErgoChair Pro as the best office chair you can buy right now!
Runner up: Best office chair
IKEA Järvfjället
All bodies are different. JÄRVFJÄLLET swivel chair is designed so that you can adjust the headrest, lumbar support, armrests and the seat height and depth to best suit your body height and shape.
£199
A modern classic, and a favourite for many, there’s no surprises that IKEA’s Järvfjället is featured as our runner up for the best office chair you can buy right now. With incredibly easy setup and a comfy leather cushion base, the ‘Jarv’ also comes complete with an incredible 10 year guarantee.
As expected, you get plenty of customisation options to ensure your body fits right, and that your back gets the support it needs as the seat depth can be adjusted and the chair has built-in lumbar support. You can also adjust the headrest and the lumbar support to suit you and your needs. IKEA also gives a nod to the longevity of the chair, stating ‘the leather ages beautifully and acquires a nice patina over time.’ A great, tried-and-tested companion for many years, just without a few modern features we’d love to see IKEA implement in a pricier model in the future, you can’t go wrong with this classic.
Most affordable: Best office chair
Hbada Office Chair Desk Chair Flip-up Armrest Ergonomic Task Chair Compact 120° Locking 360° - White
4 stars out of 5 (Amazon) 7,072 ratings
-31% £89.99
In March 2020 many workers would have instantly looked to Amazon to acquire a new office chair and unfortunately many would have been disappointed with the cheap, plastic and uncomfortable options that can be found there. However, we have had many of you recommend this great affordable office chair that is easy to set up, surprisingly comfortable, and readily available for quick delivery (Amazon Prime available too). Although this model doesn’t include a headrest (other options are available) this lumbar supported chair comes with plenty of options to ensure you can get the right position for your back and legs. Our favourite features are the ability to flip the arms up and put the chair under the desk for saving space, and the 120° tilt tension. A great option for those not looking to spend over £100 for an office chair, but not willing to forego comfort.
Choosing an office chair is a hugely personal choice but doing your research is crucial to ensure you don’t end up with a poor quality and uncomfortable office chair. It’s estimated that if you’re sitting for five hours a day, five days a week, that equates to 1,175 hours – or almost 50 days - every year (source), proving how important choosing the best office desk is for your physical and mental wellbeing, and sometimes paying a bit more can actually be cost effective in the long run. But we want to know what you think, do you agree with our recommend office chair? Let us know in the comments below.
Disclaimer: Product links on our website are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something, we make a little bit of money. Learn more here.
What else does your home office need?
The best monitor for your home office setup
Ring light for your Zoom calls
Best folding desks for small, cosy spaces
More work from home advice…
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Working from Home: Gift Guide (Under £100)
Getting the right balance between design, affordability and comfort can be challenging. Sometimes it is better to spend more on quality for a product that will last years even with day-to-day use.
Updated February 2023
Getting the right balance between design, affordability and comfort can be challenging. Sometimes it is better to spend more on quality for a product that will last years even with day-to-day use. With The Home Office Life Gift Guide we’ve compiled our favourite mid-range products for gifts to buy others, or yourself.
Logitech MX Master 3 Advanced Wireless Mouse
-22% £93.45
If you’re in the market for a professional wireless mouse, you can’t go wrong here. Join the swathes of people who swear by it. A no-brainer upgrade for those with the awful Apple Magic Mouse. Also available for Windows 10 users.
Breville HotCup Hot Water Dispenser
-33% £39.99
How many times have you tried to grab a quick tea before that next virtual conference or meeting. This god-send device will get you a perfectly brewed drink in no time and with incredible temperature control options.
Home Coffee Co. Electric Milk Frother
£39.99
Ultra-quiet design takes just two minutes to do the job thanks to the intuitive one-touch button design and then automatically switches off when finished
Stainless steel inner comes with an easy-clean, non-stick coating, while a trio of suction cups keeps it right where it needs to be
Includes free coffee bag samples
sponsored
Modomise Tower - Starter Pack
£80 (Coming soon)
Decluttering your desk has never been more important than it is today. A new startup company Modomise have created a unique solution with a modular system that allows you to create a bespoke solution for every space. One to keep an eye out for!
Blue Microphones Yeti USB Microphone
£119.99
The go-to USB microphone for anyone looking to upgrade their audio output for calls, meetings, interviews and even for those looking for an affordable podcast setup. Plug in, download the optional software and you’re ready to go in seconds.
Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard for Mac
-17% from £99.99
Type in comfort with the perfect companion for the MX Master 3 mouse. Unlike the current options for mice, there’s plenty of great keyboard options, including some mechanical keyboards. But this keyboard has all the features you’re looking for to get into some long prose sessions.
LifeSpan Fitness Workplace Yoga Ball Office Chair
-16% £85.00 incl. VAT
The LifeSpan Fitness Workplace Yoga Ball Office Chair is a unique office chair that features a yoga ball instead of a traditional seat. This chair aims to improve posture and engage core muscles while sitting, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. The chair also includes wheels for mobility and an adjustable base to accommodate different body heights. It's a great choice for individuals looking for an ergonomic and active seating option for their home or office.
BenQ ScreenBar Monitor Light LED Task Lamp
-10% £80
Becoming ever more popular, the LED monitor lamps are a great addition to your battlestations to help ease eye strain. USB powered with auto-dimming options, check out why this product has 5 stars on Amazon! (2,454 ratings)
Twelve South BookArc for MacBook
from £49.99
The perfect addition for a ultra sleek and modern setup, keep your expensive MacBook safe and secure with easy access to your Thunderbolt ports. Colour match with your device with options for Apple Space Grey or Silver.
LaCie 2 TB External Hard Drive HDD
-8% £86.06
An attractive, rugged and stylish hard drive that matches Mac or PC setups with USB 3.0 connectivity and a large 2TB storage option. Great for cold storage that seamlessly blends in with your setup, and a pleasure to use whenever needed.
Thinlerain 11.6 Inch Portable Mini Monitor
-6% £83.99 after voucher
If you only have the one monitor, this mini monitor is the perfect way to give yourself some new real estate in a portable and fun way. Choose between connecting to any side of your main monitor, or use as a pull out second screen wherever you need it. Perfect for presenters, videographers, graphic designers and also Twitch streamers! How you will you use your mini monitor?
Looking for some different gift ideas in a lower price range? Check out our The Home Office Life Gift Guide (Under £30)
Disclaimer: Product links on our website are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something, we make a little bit of money. Learn more here.
Want more tips on working from home? Check these posts out:
The ultimate work from home ASMR content to keep you productive
ASMR content is designed to help you stay focused while still giving you enough variety and entertainment to keep you motivated throughout your day.
When you work from home it can be easy to get distracted. You'll be tempted to check the news, answer emails or maybe even quit and go watch TV. ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) [what is ASMR?] content is designed to help you stay focused while still giving you enough variety and entertainment to keep you motivated throughout your day.
What I love about these playlists is the flexibility for you as a user, and how you want to set up your listening experience. You have multiple options, whether it’s having a YouTube tab open on your computer, or having these playlists beamed to your home hi-fi set up, it’s completely up to you. We’ve even had reports of ASMR being played at conferences or large events, which helps set the vibe. With just an internet connection and TV rentals, you could get this set up anywhere. Sound on for our recommendations on the best mood-boosting, productivity-peaking soundtracks to work to when you’re at home.
Lofi Girl
Perhaps known for being the OG ‘lofi’ source of relaxing beats on YouTube, Lori Girl has become a global icon, and has 11.7M subscribers on YouTube. The great thing is that the channel has hundreds of curated playlists with incredible artwork, or you can just join the on-going live stream with a version for studying, and one for relaxing - to ensure you’ll always have something in the background to listen to.
Cozy Fall Coffee Shop Ambience: Relaxing Jazz Music & Rain Sounds for Studying, Relaxation, & Sleep - Calmed By Nature
Jazz Music? Check. Coffee shop setting? Check. Autumnal vibes? Check. Relaxing rain sounds? Check check check! This ultimate relaxing video has been collated by Calmed by Nature and gives you over 8 hours of chill vibes to help you get you through your work day. Not a fan of this specific setting? Why not try from their vast catalogue with different settings and musical arrangements to find the right one to get you in a ‘zen’ mindset.
Snowfall in Times Square, NYC | Walking in New York City in the Winter Snow -
Nomadic Ambience
When working from home, you may sometimes crave the sounds and sights of a large city, especially one as exciting as New York. We find that walking tours (done right) are an amazing way to audibly immerse yourself in an exciting setting whilst also removing all of the physical annoyances that you may experience when walking down 6th Avenue - for example. In our opinion, Nomadic Ambience are one of the best options for this category of content, with a deep, contrasty look that just oozes style but with great stable camera work and audio. Pick your favourite city, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds whilst you enjoy the comforts of home working.
Whether you work from home a lot, or just need some help keeping your focus, these types of content can be an excellent way to keep yourself on track. Hopefully these recommendations are helpful for you in staying productive. Click play, and get on with your day!
Sound off below for what content you personally use to keep productive 👇
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Working from Home: Gift Guide (Under £30)
With birthdays, holidays and special occasions always just around the corner, and with many working from home in some capacity, we’ve compiled a list of gift ideas for your new home office setup.
Updated 11th November 2022
With birthdays, holidays and special occasions always just around the corner, and with many of us working from home in some capacity, we’ve compiled a list of gift ideas for your new home office setup. With The Home Office Life Gift Guide, we hope we can help you choose what to give your loved ones.
Sukin Hydrating Mist Toner
£4.77
Freshen up and avoid dry eyes from staring at your screen all day with a hydrating mist.
‘Pump & Feed' Plant Food 200ml
£5.85
Keep your houseplants alive with a handy plant food dispenser. Don’t forget to water!
Playstation Icons Lights
£24.23
A great addition to your RGB lighting to show some love for your favourite gaming icon. Pair with a Playstation 5, if you can find one!
Anker Magnetic Cable Holder
£16.99
Completing your home office or battlestation only to find dangling and hanging cables can be a a real killjoy. Put that sticky tape and blu-tack away and get an integrated magnetic solution.
Anker Wireless Chargers Bundle
£29.99
A wireless charger is the perfect place to leave your phone on your desk to keep it neat-and-tidy whilst charging throughout your workday. Get this bundle and have two options for either upright or on a flat pad. Use the other next to your bed and you’ll never run of battery again.
Silicone Drink Coasters Set of 8
£9.88
Often overlooked in an office environment, but arguably the most used accessory to any desk setup. Grab a set of non-slip coasters and ensure your hot or cold beverages don’t drip on your expensive desk.
T2 Tea Loose Leaf Tea Maker with Tea Infuser
£20
Perfect for green tea drinkers looking to use loose tea, this easy-to-use and stylish tea maker is a mainstay for many work from office environments, also making it easy to re-use tea for at least a couple of cups.
Nordik Leather Desk Mat Cable Organiser
£24.97
Becoming ever more popular as an all-in-one solution for protection and replacing small and fiddly traditional mouse mats, this leather desk mat is a perfect size for most desks and available in great colour combinations. There’s other XL options out there for large desks but for many this will do a great job and even includes some handy cable management built in.
If you’re looking for gifts between £30-£100, check out out other The Home Office Life Gift Guide (Under £100). Let us know if you have any suggestions for must-have gift recommendations under £30 in the comments below 👇
Disclaimer: Product links on our website are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something, we make a little bit of money. Learn more here.
More work from home advice…
Use these to hang things on your plaster walls
How are you supposed to hang things on a plaster wall/drywall? Well, put down that hammer and drill, because I think I have found the most perfect solution for this, and after using this new product from 3M, I can safely say I will never hang anything on the wall again without these!
Note: This is not a sponsored post from 3M, we just had to rave about this incredible innovation for hanging heavy items on plaster walls.
If you’re like me and absolutely useless at DIY, you may sometimes find even the most basic thing - like hanging a picture frame on the wall - as a seemingly impossible challenge. It’s not that the process is hard, it’s not knowing what the right process is for different types of walls. Plaster, brick, stone, concrete, stud, the list goes on and on, what do you use and how can you be sure to avoid damaging your pristine walls and causing more headaches for yourself? But for most houses around the world, you’ll likely have walls with very thin plaster/drywall, which in the past causes headaches when hanging heavy home decor on them.
So, how are you supposed to hang things on a plaster wall/drywall? Well, put down that hammer and drill, because I think I have found the most perfect solution for this, and after using this new product from 3M, I can safely say I will never hang anything on the wall again without these!
3M Claw Plasterboard Picture Hanging Wall Hooks -
Holds between 7 kg - 30kg
No tools - just push in with your thumbs
No studs - hang anywhere on drywall
No regrets - no big holes left in the wall
Having put these to the test in our new build house, I’ve been blown away by how easy it was to use. I’ve managed to put up multiple heavy mirrors and picture frames up within seconds! And the best part, you can put them up wherever you want, without ever needing a drill, or a hammer, or anything else except your thumbs! There’s different size Claws to hold different weights, between 7 kg and up to 30kg! For me, this has been a real game changer, and I’ll be sure to get more of the 3M Claws to get my new home office looking nice and cosy with all sorts of home decor!
Disclaimer: Product links on our website are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something, we make a little bit of money. Learn more here.
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How to play YouTube videos in Picture in Picture on PC or Mac
Did you know that you can watch YouTube videos in an overlayed picture in picture mode whilst working from home? With just 2 double clicks you can open up a whole world of possibilities on YouTube with this hidden gem of a feature - and we can’t believe how many people still don’t know about this!
Did you know that you can watch YouTube videos in an overlayed Picture in Picture mode whilst working from home? With just 2 double clicks you can open up a whole world of possibilities on YouTube with this hidden gem of a feature - and we can’t believe how many people still don’t know about this!
Open up a YouTube video in your browser
Right click
Right click again!
Click ‘Enter Picture in Picture’
From here you can now bring the Picture in Picture box back into the YouTube tab, or pause/resume the video.
Ok, so why is this so useful? Well, watching and listening to content whilst working from home plays an important part in entertaining you throughout a working day, and also actually helps you becoming distracted. The world of ASMR content has been steadily popular since 2020, and we’ve even recommended our 3 favourite pieces of ASMR content to try when working from home.
Google Trends for ASMR since 2017
Stop playing YouTube videos the old way and then struggling to find the video in a sea of open tabs, and instead put you and your content back into your control with this ‘hack’.
Discover our latest articles
Key 2023/24 tax year dates, deadlines & thresholds
Here are the self-assessment tax return dates, VAT return dates for financial year 2023/24.
Whether you’re working from home as a self-employed individual or an employee, it’s always helpful to know the latest tax year dates in the UK, which will come into force in April 2023.
Here are the self-assessment tax return dates and VAT return dates for 2023/24.
This is for 2023/24. Click to see key 2024/25 tax year dates.
Or, want to know the dates for 2022/23? Check them here.
When does the 2023/24 tax year start?
The 2023/24 tax year begins on 6 April 2023 and ends on 5 April 2024.
Self-assessment tax return dates 2023/24
Here are your Self Assessment tax return dates, and other important deadlines for individuals and self-employed in the 2023/24 tax year:
| 5 April 2023 | 2022/23 tax year ends |
| 6 April 2023 | 2024/24 tax year begins |
| 31 July 2023 | Second Payment on Account (POA) for Income Tax for 2022/23 |
| 5 October 2023 | Deadline for Self Assessment registration to notify chargeability of Income Tax/Capital Gains Tax for 2022/23 |
| 19 October 2023 | Deadline for postal payments of CIS, Class 1 B NICs and PAYE to HMRC |
| 22 October 2023 | Deadline for electronic remittance of CIS, Class 1 B NICs and PAYE to HMRC |
| 31 October 2023 | Deadline for postal submission of Self Assessment tax returns for tax year ended 5 April 2023 to be received by HMRC |
| 30 December 2023 | Deadline for online submission of Self Assessment tax returns for tax year ended 5 April 2023 |
| 31 December 2023 | Due date to file company accounts with Companies House for limited companies with 31 March 2023 year end |
| 14 January 2024 | Income tax due date for CT61 period to 31 December 2023 |
| 31 January 2024 | Deadline for filing Self Assessment Tax Returns for tax year ended 5 April 2023 and 2022/23 Capital Gains Tax
Balancing payment of tax due for 2022/23 and first Payment on Account for Income Tax for 2023/24 |
| 5 April 2024 | 2023/24 tax year ends |
| 6 April 2024 | 2024/25 tax year begins |
Deadlines for submitting VAT returns 2023/24
The deadline for submitting your return is 1 month and 7 days after the end of the VAT period, whether you pay your VAT monthly or quarterly.
Here are the key dates for submitting VAT returns in the 2023/24 tax year:
| 7 April 2023 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 28 February 2023 |
| 7 May 2023 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 March 2023 |
| 7 June 2023 | Deadline for VAT returns and payment Accounting Quarter period ending 30 April 2023 if filed online |
| 7 July 2023 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 May 2023 |
| 7 August 2023 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 30 June 2023 |
| 7 September 2023 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 July 2023 |
| 7 October 2023 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 August 2023 |
| 7 November 2023 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 30 September 2023 |
| 7 December 2023 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 October 2023 |
| 7 January 2024 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 30 November 2023 |
| 7 February 2024 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 December 2023 |
| 7 March 2024 | Deadline for VAT returns and payments of Accounting Quarter period ending 31 January 2024 |
PAYE tax rates & thresholds 2023/24
Employee Personal Allowance: £12,570
Basic Rate Tax Band: 20% on income between £12,571 and £50,270
Higher Rate Tax Band: 40% on income between £50,271 and £125,139
Additional Rate Tax Band: 45% on income above £125,140
The standard tax code for 2023/24 is 1250L
Read more working from home tips & guides:
What do you need to set up an efficient home office?
These days, many people prefer to work from home. This is because it enhances their productivity and makes it easy to schedule their day. Therefore, the concept of having a home office is rising these days.
These days, many people prefer to work from home. This is because it enhances their productivity and makes it easy to schedule their day. Therefore, the concept of having a home office is rising these days.
Setting up an efficient home office is easy, you just have to use a bit of creativity and purchase wisely!
A home office can be set up on a budget. You can choose various accessories from standing desks to custom size glass chair mats (see image above) when setting up a home office. However, there are certain aspects to consider while setting up an efficient home office. This article shares all those aspects that will help you set up a professional working space at home.
1: Choose the right space
First of all, you have to choose an ideal space within your home. Now, a perfect space is where you can sit back and focus on your daily office workflow. It should be spacious enough to accommodate your office desk and chair setup.
Also, there should be enough lighting around to help you stay focused. Now, you can choose nearly any space that ticks all the above-mentioned boxes. For example, it can be a corner of your bedroom. Maybe, any corner space in your living room.
Some space next to your bedroom can also be converted into an ideal workspace. The list goes on. So, you have to identify which space will help you work with better focus and attention.
2. Invest in the right items
There are a lot of small items that can enhance your daily workflow. For example, your office desk should have all the required stationery. In addition, sticky notes, plenty of pens, a note pad and a small storage box are must for every home office.
Furthermore, you should also have all the required tech gadgets with you. For example, a laptop stand is a must if you don't want to feel tired at the end of every work day. Further, a wireless mouse and keyboard combo could be an excellent addition.This combination will help you work on your laptop or PC with ease.
Similarly, you can opt for an office printer if you often have to print specific documents. Also, you should invest in some protective gear for your office furniture. For example, the glass chair mats would be ideal for protecting your home office floor.
3. Seating arrangement
Your office's seating arrangement is an aspect you should never overlook. That's because it's directly linked with your health. Often, because of poor posture, many people have to face serious health issues.
So, invest in a quality office chair. Also, a laptop stand is an essential accessory. Place it at your eye level or a bit low (if that suits you). This way, you can avoid severe eye strain.
The office table is also an element that can make or break your office seating arrangement. So choose a durable office table. You can opt for a glass table for some great looks on top of great functionality. Lastly, glass chair mats would be ideal for quickly moving the chair. They will also protect your office floor.
4. Office Lighting
Office lighting often gets overlooked. That's because most people assume that natural light would be enough for them. Of course, natural lighting is also important, but you should have enough artificial lighting in your home office.
You can use fluorescent lights to lighten up your home office. These days LED lights are pretty cheap and are easily available. So you can opt for LED lights as well. In reality, it's not all about choosing a specific type of lighting. It's about how you set up those lights. You can lighten up your office desk by using LED strips.
For additional lighting, hang some LED bulbs on top of your office desk. So there are many ways to customize your office lighting.
5. Add Some Plants
Setting up a home office is all about coming up with innovative ideas. One such idea is to place a natural plant alongside a window. You will just have to water the plant regularly. Furthermore, there are also artificial plants available. You can place them at any corner as they don't require sunlight or watering.
6. Storage Space
Your home office should have enough storage space where you can store various office accessories and stationery. In addition, you can install some additional storage shelves to maximize the storage space. These storage shelves look great and offer plenty of storage space.
There are also dedicated storage boxes that you can use to store some extra items. Further, go with an office table that has drawers where you can store daily used office items. You can also opt for separate cabinets for upgrading your office storage space.
So, these are some cool and easy ways to set up a home office. It's not tough at all. You just have to be a bit creative. That's because you aren't answerable to anyone. You can go for any theme that suits your interest.
You can go above and beyond to customize your personal working space. In this regard, choosing a location that helps you stay focused is important. Ideally, you should focus on investing in quality office furniture. A comfortable office chair is also important as it won't make you feel tired.
There should be enough storage space available. Also, you can buy artificial plants to change the aesthetics of your workplace. Last but not the least, a couple of glass chair mats would be a perfect accessory. It will protect your office floor on top of promising looks. Always prefer to buy glass panels or any glass accessory from a trustworthy glass distributor.
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Three great job ideas for those wishing to work from home
People’s working habits have changed significantly, with more people working from home than ever. In fact, statistics show that three million people claimed working from home tax relief in 2020/21, up from around 1.7 million in 2019. Whilst those figures have settled a little since the world opened for business once again, many people had their eyes opened to working from home.
The 2020 pandemic changed the world in many ways. Some of the changes were temporary, others more permanent.
People’s working habits have changed significantly, with more people working from home than ever. In fact, statistics show that three million people claimed working from home tax relief in 2020/21, up from around 1.7 million in 2019. Whilst those figures have settled a little since the world opened for business once again, many people had their eyes opened to working from home. Employers realised it was beneficial in terms of their outgoings; lower energy costs, less demand on space and a reduced need for infrastructure all added up to a cost saving. In terms of wellbeing, people who work from home tend to be happier (if they do it properly), with a better work/life balance, no commute and a feeling of empowerment and trust. Some might even freelance, empowered not just by where they work but how they work. Flexible working is another aspect of working from home that positively impacts people; Hubstaff, for instance, allows you to prove you’ve worked 40 hours, but it also allows you to work 40 hours that suit you if your employer allows.
With so many benefits, it’s clear working from home will remain popular. If you’re sold on the idea but wonder what courses to take or opportunities to seek to best help you along, we’re here to help. These are three great remote jobs for people wishing to work from home.
Mobile App Designer
The digital world is not only driving people to work from home but also creating more opportunities. Certain sectors, such as mobile apps, have become more involved, and that means a need for designers capable of using graphic design software and the like. It isn’t just big titles and releases that need good designers; online casinos are helping drive the requirement for such skills as well. They’re becoming more popular in the UK, and more providers are popping up looking to deliver immersive and realistic experiences. As a case point, the online slots from Foxy Games include the Eye of Horus series, which feature multiple slots. All have a theme that are designed around Ancient Egypt, with subtle operational differences, but they need to be coded and made uniform and user-friendly; that can all be done remotely. Millions of other apps need such design; in fact, it’s estimated that there are more than 2.65 million apps on Google Play alone. In particular, the online casino and iGaming industry relies on app design skills, but there will always be opportunities with so many apps.
Content Creator
Not only do these apps and sites need skilled coders, but they often have plenty of other content too. Think about your favourite app; it’s almost certain to have a blog page or some written content that helps drive engagement. Even online casinos tend to have written content these days, discussing their games or FAQs helping customers out. Someone has written every word you see on the internet, which can be done remotely. Most companies providing such services only work remotely, with text being incredibly simple to work with over the internet. You might also find a niche in video content creation for YouTube or embedded in a company website. You can take the help of an AI video editing tool to generate videos for your YouTube channel or create videos for the company website. The possibilities are endless for freelance work, and that means working from home.
Graphic Designer
We’ve looked at graphic design in terms of online games and apps, but people need graphics for all applications, and that is where the remote graphic designer comes in. You might be working freelance, bouncing from one small design job to the next, or working as part of an agile remote team collaborating on bigger projects. The world of a graphic designer is varied and full of niche areas, such as fashion graphic design, logos and business, or sports marketing and engagement. Just as every word you read on the internet has a person behind it, every logo, picture, and graphic has also been created by a person. Again, with it being a job you perform almost entirely on your computer, it makes it perfect for those wishing to work from home.
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Popular hotel chains check-in and check-out times
It can be really hard to find your hotel chain's check-in and check-out times (and breakfast times), so we’ve put them together in a handy chart.
Last updated: 1 August 2022
Of course, working from home is superior (at least, that’s our opinion at The Home Office Life!), but there will likely be occasions when you’ll need to work away from home for a length of time. If that’s the case, and you’re working somewhere within the UK, then chances are, you’ll be booking into a popular hotel chain for your stay.
But it can be really hard to find your hotel chain's check-in and check-out times (and breakfast times), so we’ve put them together in a handy chart below for the likes of Travelodge, Premier Inn, ibis, Holiday Inn, Hilton and more.
Hotel check-in, check-out and breakfast hours
| Hotel | Check-in | Check-out | Breakfast times |
| Premier Inn | 15:00 | 12:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 6:30 - 10:30 on weekdays and 7:00 to 11:00 at weekends |
| Travelodge | 15:00 | 12:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 7:00 - 10:00 on weekdays and 8:00 to 11:00 at weekends |
| Hilton | Varies by hotel | Varies by hotel, but usually 12:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 7:00 - 10:00 on weekdays and 7:00 to 11:00 at weekends |
| Walt Disney Parks and Resorts | 16:00 for Disney Deluxe Villas or 15:00 for the other Disney Resorts | 11:00 | Varies by restaurant, check website for more details |
| Holiday Inn | 15:00 | 12:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 6:30 - 10:30 on weekdays and 7:30 to 11:00 at weekends |
| Marriott | Varies by hotel, but usually 15:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 6:30 - 9:30 on weekdays and 7:00 to 10:00 at weekends | |
| Savoy Hotel | 15:00 | 11:00 | 7:00 - 11:00 |
| Haven Holidays | 1 - 2 hours before allocated check in time | 10:00 | Not applicable |
| Ritz | 15:00 | 12:00 | 8:00 - 10:30 |
| Butlins | Enter resort from 13:00 | 10:00 | Varies by location, check website for more details |
| Radisson | 15:00 | 12:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 7:00 - 10:30 Monday to Saturday and 8:00 to 11:00 on Sundays |
| Ibis | 15:00 | 12:00 | 4:00 - 12:00 |
| Four Seasons Hotels | 15:00 | 12:00 | Varies by hotel, check website for more details |
| Champneys | 15:00 | 11:00 | Varies by hotel, check website for more details |
| Best Western | 15:00 | 11:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 6:30 - 10:30 |
| Mercure Hotels | 15:00 | 12:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 6:30 - 9:30 on weekdays and 7:00 to 10:00 at weekends |
| Novotel | 15:00 | 12:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 6:30 - 10:00 on weekdays and 7:00 to 10:30 at weekends |
| Crowne Plaza | 15:00 | 11:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 6:30 - 10:30 on weekdays and 7:00 to 11:00 at weekends |
| Sheraton Hotels and Resorts | Varies by hotel, but usually 15:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 12:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 6:30 - 9:30 on weekdays and 7:00 to 10:00 at weekends |
| Ritz-Carlton | Varies by hotel, but usually 15:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 12:00 | Varies by hotel, but usually 7:30 - 10:30 |
Above is the list of check-in, check-out and breakfast times for the top 20 most popular hotel brands (Q2, 2022) according to YouGov (source).
If you’re unsure of any information for your hotel, please visit their website as they’ll usually have a Live Chat feature to ask a member of their team for advice, or try their Twitter accounts for more detail.
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Desktop wallpapers from James Webb telescope
After posting print files for James webb telescope’s first ever image, we’ve had an endless flood of people asking if we can do the same for desktop wallpapers. So, we’re releasing them for you to use on your own laptops, tablets and even mobile phones.
After posting print files for James webb telescope’s first ever image, we’ve had an endless flood of people asking if we can do the same for desktop wallpapers. So, after spending some time in our home office editing these incredible set of images, we’re releasing them for you to use on your own laptops, tablets and even mobile phones.
Credit, of course, goes to NASA for the incredible source images
In fact, these beautiful HD images can not only be used as wallpapers for your phone or computer desktop, but they can also become vinyl stickers with various sizes and shapes. Therefore, you can stick them on your electric devices and furniture in your apartment as fancy decor.
Star Forming Region: NGC 3324 In Carina Nebula
Stellar Death: Planetary Nebula NGC 3132
Interacting Galaxies: Stephan's Quintet
Deep Field: SMACS 0723
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FREE print templates: First images from James Webb telescope
Look back in time and decorate your home office with something cool, get your free print templates for images from the NASA James Webb Space Telescope courtesy of the Home Office Life.
Look back in time and decorate your home office with something cool, get your free print templates for images from the NASA James Webb Space Telescope courtesy of the Home Office Life.
Print templates are available – get yours now.
Recommended A3 frame: Amazon link
Recommended A4 frame: Amazon link
Recommended 10x10 frame: Amazon link
All print templates are 300dpi, CMYK, Colour profile sRGB IEC61966-2.1 and ready to print.
We also have desktop wallpapers for you to customise your devices background.
NASA has released the first set of images from their new, James Webb telescope. The telescope was launched in 2018 with the purpose to analyse planets outside our solar system. This marks a major milestone for scientists interested in finding possible habitable planets that other planets. On April 6th 2018, scientists and astronomers gathered together at NASA headquarters to receive the first images from the telescope which is set to revolutionize the field of astronomy. The telescope is named after a former NASA administrator (James Webb) who helped achieve President John F. Kennedy's goal of sending an American to the moon by the end of the 1960s. Now, it is looking beyond at some of the most distant objects in our universe and also helping us study planets that might be able to harbour life. It will peer even deeper into space than Hubble ever did, but will extend its sight across infrared wavelengths which are not visible to human eyes and even ones that are invisible to Hubble. Complex telescope algorithms are being developed to take advantage of its massive light-gathering power and Earth's rotation.
For more ideas about free printable check out our previous post: 18 top free printables to help you organise and decorate
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What’s the best professional ring light?
Are you looking for a professional ring light for your work from home desk setup? Here’s our pick of the best ring lights available to buy on Amazon right now.
Are you looking for a ring light for your work from home desk setup? Here’s our pick of the best ring lights available to buy on Amazon right now.
What is a ring light?
A ring light is a circular shaped LED light that’s used to brighten and lessen shadows on the subject it’s pointed on. You can get small ring lights to go round your phone camera (it’s the tool that all the cool Tiktokers, Instagrammers and Kardashians use), or a larger one that you can position on your desk to improve your appearance on webinars and work calls. Professional makeup artists and photographers also commonly use them.
If your desk is in a dark spot in your home office, and there are huge shadows being cast on your face a ring light is a must - especially if you’re filming for work. Not only will the footage look much better, a brighter appearance on camera is a great pick-me-up when you’re constantly staring at yourself on your computer!
Most professional ring lights are USB powered, so you can plug them straight into your computer (or a USB adapter for a MacBook like this one). They often have a variety of colour settings too, including bright white, warm white and warm yellow, and you should be able to change the brightness of these easily - so play around and find the best setting for the environment you’re in. Lots of ring lights are designed for use with mobile phones rather than laptops, as they’re great for taking selfies, but you can adapt their use for your WFH desk easily.
What should I use a ring light for?
Ring lights are good for Zoom calls and other video conferencing solutions, blogging, photography, live streaming and much more, like TikTok videos, Instagram Stories, Instagram Reels and YouTube videos.
Do ring lights really make a difference?
Many content creators and home workers have noted how much impact a ring light has on their setup. For those working from home making conference calls or webinars, a ring light gives a professional look, and helps to even out tone and shadows caused by lack of natural lighting or harsh room lighting. Content creators rely on 10-18 inch ring lights to smooth their appearance and/or help focus on the objects they are discussing in their content. Once you get your ring light, play around with the position and brightness/colour settings until you find your desired effect.
5 of the best professional ring lights
Disclaimer: Product links on our website are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something, we make a little bit of money. Learn more here.
GreenSun 12” Ring Light - Amazon
The GreenSun offering is a 12 inch LED ring light that’s primarily designed to light up around your phone for a well-lit selfie. It comes with an adjustable tripod stand (which you can have from 3.15 inches to 74.80 inches tall) and a range of accessories you can set it up for your needs. If you didn’t want to use this for your phone, you could use the tripod to hold the light on your desk behind your laptop or webcam.
Size: 12 inches, with extendable tripod from 3.15 inches to 74.80 inches
Colour settings: 3 colour modes available, with adjustable brightness settings
Power: USB powered with an added Bluetooth remote control
Neewer 14” Ring Light - Amazon
Neewer is one of the most popular names in ring lights, and this offering comes highly recommended on Amazon for its ease of use and range of brightness options available. This 14-inch LED ring light is a more robust option if you’re going to be filming lots, but thanks to the light aluminium stand, is still easy to move - complete with carry bag.
Size: 14 inches, with 61 inch aluminium stand
Colour settings: White and orange colour filters, with adjustable brightness settings
Power: Hot shoe adapter and charger
Neewer 12” RGB Ring Light - Amazon
This Neewer ring light is another great ring light option. It’s highly versatile, thanks to its extendable tripod that you can place on your desk or on the floor and the 2 rotatable phone clips that it comes with, which allow you to have your phone either in the middle of the LED light itself or just below it. You also get to choose from 16 colours in the ring light itself, making it a particularly fun option if you’re filming TikToks or Instagram Reels.
Size: 12 inches, with extendable tripod from 16 inches to 54 inches
Colour settings: 16 colours with 4 modes available, with adjustable brightness settings
Power: USB powered with an added Bluetooth remote control
YMCRLUX 6.3” Ring Light with Suction Cup - Amazon
The YMCRLUX LED ring light is much more compact than many other ring lights available, so it’s ideal for those who split their time between working from home and from their office. It’s a much smaller light too, at just 6.3 inches, and it features a suction cup to adhere to a surface - like the back of your laptop or a mirror - instead of requiring a tripod.
Size: 6.3 inches, with suction cup stand and tape pad
Colour settings: 3 light modes available, with 10 adjustable brightness settings
Power: USB powered
AIXPI 10” Ring Light - Amazon
The AIXPI ring light is a great choice for YouTubers, live streamers and TikTok content creators with its phone holder functionality in the centre of the light. You can also place a DSLR camera there. The tripod also allows for 360° rotation, which can be particularly helpful for content creators - although it still offers everything you need for professional conference call lighting too.
Size: 10 inches, with desk tripod stand and phone holder
Colour settings: 3 light modes available, with 10 adjustable brightness settings
Power: USB powered with an added Bluetooth remote control
Want more tips on working from home? Check these posts out:
Follow these 5 easy steps to spring clean your home
When the weather starts to warm up and the days begin to get longer, many of us start thinking about giving our homes a good deep clean.
When the weather starts to warm up and the days begin to get longer, many of us start thinking about giving our homes a good deep clean. Spring cleaning is a tradition that dates back centuries, and there's a good reason why it's still popular today.
A thorough clean can make your home feel fresh and new again, and it's also a great way to get rid of any dirt, dust, and grime that's been building up, especially as we’ve all been working from home a lot more since 2020.
It’s time to start gathering your cleaning supplies
Before you start your spring cleaning, it's important to gather all the supplies you'll need. This will make the process go much more smoothly, and it will help you avoid having to stop in the middle to run to the store for something you forgot.
Here are a few of the essential supplies you'll need for spring cleaning:
Vacuum cleaner - Recommended Shark Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Dusting cloths - Recommended Microfibre Cloths
Mop and bucket - Recommended Vileda Turbo Microfibre Mop and Bucket Set
Window cleaner - Recommended Karcher Window Vac
All-purpose cleaner - Recommended Method Anti-Bac Cleaner
Bathroom cleaner - Recommended Ecover Bathroom Cleaner
Carpet cleaner - Recommended Vax SpotWash Carpet Cleaner
Steam cleaner (optional) - Recommended Karcher EasyFix Steam Cleaner
When you have all the supplies you need, you're ready to start cleaning! Begin by working your way from the top of your home to the bottom. This will help you avoid missing any areas, and it will also make it easier to clean up any dust or dirt that falls as you're working. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Start with the ceilings and walls
Dust can accumulate on these surfaces quickly, so it's important to give them a good cleaning. Use a dusting cloth or a vacuum with an attachment to remove any cobwebs and dust from your ceilings and walls.
2. Clean your floors next
Vacuum all of the carpeted areas in your home, and mop any hard surface floors. If you have any areas of your floor that are particularly dirty, you may want to use a cleaner with a scrubbing brush to get them really clean.
3. Don't forget the windows
Over time, windows can become dull and stained. Give them a good cleaning with a window cleaner and a lint-free cloth.
4. Your carpet
Vacuum your carpets thoroughly. Be sure to go over each area several times to pick up all the dirt and dust.
5. Finally, deep clean your bathrooms and kitchen
These are the two areas of your home that get the most use, so they can benefit from a good deep cleaning. Scrub your tubs, showers, and sinks with a bathroom cleaner. Wipe down all of the surfaces in your kitchen, including the stovetop, countertops, and cabinets.
Why do people spring clean?
There are a few reasons why people choose to do spring cleaning. For some, it's a way to freshen up their home after a long winter. Others use it as an opportunity to declutter and get rid of items they no longer need or use. And for others still, spring cleaning is simply a yearly tradition that helps them start the season off on the right foot.
Whatever your reason for spring cleaning, there's no doubt that it can be a helpful and satisfying process. Not only will your home look and feel better afterwards, but you'll also have the satisfaction of knowing that everything is clean and in its proper place.
If you're ready to give your home a thorough deep clean, we've got all the tips and tricks you need. Follow these simple steps and your home will be looking and feeling brand new in no time!
Article written by Kazafi from chairndesk.com
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Low earners less likely to be able to work from home study shows
A recent study by the Office of National Statistics in the UK reveals that your likelihood of working from home is directly related to the extent of your income.
A recent study by the Office of National Statistics in the UK reveals that your likelihood of working from home is directly related to the extent of your income. The study found that only 6% of lower income households reported to be working from home between 27 April and 8 May 2022, compared to 12% for middle wage-earners, and 23% for higher wage-earners (£40,000 or more).
You could be 5x less likely to be able to hybrid work if you’re on a lower income than those who reported being on higher incomes
The breakdown for those reporting to now be hybrid working followed a similar patten with only 8% of lower income workers (up to £15,000) saying the new approach to work applied to them, compared to 38% for higher wage-earners. This means you could be nearly 5x less likely to be able to hybrid work if you’re on a lower income than those who reported being on higher incomes. This new study gives evidence to what some have argued for a while whereby the working home lifestyle and flexibility that many have enjoyed is now only afforded to the well-off.
This latest report gives us an up to date understanding of how businesses are reacting to employee expectations from existing studies. Apple have recently u-turned on the matter, after just this month (May 2022) a group of Apple employees published a letter calling on the Apple executive team to allow for a hybrid and flexible work schedule. The letter went on to argue that forcing employees to return to the office '“will make Apple younger, whiter, more male-dominated, more neuro-normative, more able-bodied”.
Another recent high-profile incident has cast doubt that working from home can maintain its prominence as Tesla CEO Elon Musk has allegedly demanded that Tesla employees must return to the office for in-person work at least 40 hours per week or they'll be let go.
News of the policy was disclosed in a series of leaked emails Musk sent.
"Anyone who wishes to do remote work must be in the office for a minimum (and I mean *minimum*) of 40 hours per week or depart Tesla. This is less than we ask of factory workers," Musk wrote.
The billionaire has been critical against remote working and employees work ethic in the past. Adding to the list of multi-million (or billion) business owners and CEOs who are pushing against employee wishes.
The study shows the proportion of workers hybrid working has risen by 84% in 3 months
The ONS study also provides plenty of insights into the rise in hybrid working, as we all look to start living life after COVID. The study shows the proportion of workers hybrid working has risen by 84% in 3 months, “from 13% in early February 2022 to 24% in May 2022.” They also show that the proportion of workers now working exclusively from home has fallen by 36%, “from 22% to 14% in the same period.” (Source: ONS)
The best profession to be in for working from home is information and communication
It’s not just how much you earn that could determine the likelihood of being able to work from home, or even enjoy a new hybrid working approach. The ONS study also shows that the weighting by industry varies massively, with ‘construction' being the least likely, compared to the best profession to be in for working from home, which is information and communication.
Ultimately, the conclusion from this study seems to be that if you want to work from home, you’re better off working for a company with a large corporate infrastructure in the information and communication industry. That way, you’ll have a greater chance of convincing your employer to allow you to work remotely. But the important thing to remember here is that companies with a smaller corporate infrastructure actually see more productivity and higher levels of engagement at the office— they just aren’t as flexible when it comes to remote work. You can’t have one without the other. So where do you fall on that scale? And what are some ways that you can convince your boss to let you work remotely?
Click here for the full Office of National Statistics study (May 2022), and here for our roundup of working from home statistics.
Want more tips on working from home? Check these posts out:
The best subreddits for working from home (Updated: May 2022)
There is a community for every niche on reddit, and the working from home community is just one of those. However, for work from home enthusiasts it can be a challenge to find subreddits to devote yourself to to avoid an overload in your feed.
There is a community for every niche on reddit, and the working from home community is just one of those. The social media community platform Reddit has flourished in recent years due to the explosion of movements like /r/antiwork and /r/wallstreetbets. However, for work from home enthusiasts it can be a challenge to find subreddits (communities) to devote yourself to to avoid an overload in your feed. The community has become segmented with communities such as /r/workfromhome with 25.5k members and /r/wfh with 25.5k members.
Browsing Reddit’s official resource of community lists for ‘work’ will provide you with a good start of subreddits to consider:
/r/jobs
/r/forhire
/r/cscareerquestions
/r/workonline
But these don’t cater to the needs of the real WFH community, and we’re thinking outside the box to provide better recommendations for you to follow that provide incredible value and advice.
/r/remotework
21.6k members
This subreddit is a place for teams, companies and individuals who want to share news, experience, tips, tricks, and software about working remotely or in distributed teams.
/r/desksetup
39.1k members
This subreddit is specifically oriented for you to post your setup and share with others… Just reorganised your desk, share it. Just got a new poster, share it. Swapped around your office / room , share it. Or if you have any questions regarding setups or cool tips to share, ask away!
/r/standingdesk
17.7k members
This subreddit is all about standing desks, also known as stand up desks, adjustable height desks, and sit to stand desks.
/r/battlestations
3.1m members
A subreddit for reddit users' battlestation pictures.
/r/homeimprovement
3.0m members
A community dedicated to helping people with advice on personal home improvement projects.
/r/designmyroom
368k members
Just submit pictures of your room, a layout with measurements, and we will help you rearrange it! Please specify budget, location ie: North America, Europe, etc. You can also specify what kind of room you want (eg. minimalist, etc.) to get help according to your taste!
We hope this list has provided you with some useful new subreddits to check out. Stop by and get some inspiration from these communities who have made an incredible life for themselves working from home. You never know what might be possible for you to try for yourself. If you think we’ve missed one please post your favourite work from home subreddit below in the comments.
More work from home advice…
Hybrid working: the best co-working spaces in London
If you're tired of working at home or at work all week long, there are some stylish yet functional co-working spaces available with great packages to help you make the most of hybrid working.
You're working from home, you're enjoying the freedom to work in your comfy PJs, and you’re feeling super productive. It's all great until the inevitable… you need some human interaction! That’s where hybrid working comes in.
Hybrid working - where you choose to work from home somedays, but in an office on another - is on the rise. In fact, according to our working from home statistics, 85% of employees currently working from home want a ‘hybrid’ approach of both home and office working in future.
If you're tired of working at home or at work all week long, there are some stylish yet functional co-working spaces available with great packages.
London has some of the best co-working spaces around - if you know where to look! You might be familiar with some of the main contenders in this space, with Fora and WeWork offering multiple co-working locations in the capital. But there are some independent hidden gems to discover too.
Why choose a co-working space?
If you’re having a co-working space vs traditional office debate, then here are some points to consider:
Co-working spaces typically offer more flexibility, as you won’t have to commit to a long-term lease. Often, you can choose a rolling month package.
Your bills (electricity, WiFi etc.) are often covered in your co-working space fee.
A co-working space offers you ample opportunity to network with other business leaders, and you could even find yourself making new clients or advocates there!
You can begin working there right away. It’ll be fully equipped from day one, with desks, chairs and internet connection. Just bring yourself, your laptop and your lucky houseplant and you’re good to go. 🪴
But, bear in mind you’ll have to share your space and communal facilities - toilets, coffee machines, dishwashers etc. - with others
You’ll also have less privacy than if you had a dedicated office space.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. Only you know which workspace is best for you and your productivity. If you choose to go down the co-working route, review our picks below, as this guide highlights some of the finest co-working spaces in London that you can consider if you want a fresh change from your current home-working environment.
Looking for a co-working space in London? Let’s get started…
Uncommon, Borough
Image from uncommon.co.uk
Address: 1 Long Lane, London, SE1 4PG
What it says: “Uncommon Borough is housed in the vibrant South London - just a few steps away from the Northern Line and a short walk from key area highlights like London Bridge, Borough Market and Bermondsey High Street. It’s the perfect spot for teams that are looking for a stimulating and inspiring area to work from and explore.”
Reviews include: “If you need a co working space, this would be your first choice!”
“Very lovely co-working space with great staff! Love the bike storage available, and a great cafe downstairs.”
“Great location, great working spaces and terrific views of London from the roof terrace. Great atmosphere and a buzz about the place.”
Perks include: On-site cafe, rooftop terrace, wellness areas, dog friendly, showers and bike storage.
Ideal for: Creatives who love working alongside nature. There are plants a-plenty, and many comfy breakout areas to work in. The rooftop terrace is a bonus that not many other co-working spaces can boast!
Cost: A dedicated desk starts from £499 + VAT per month.
Central Working, White City
Image from centralworking.co
Address: 84 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ
What it says: “In partnership with the wonderful Imperial College Think Space, our incredible White City location offers flexible workspaces featuring light and spacious offices and facilities designed to support businesses of all sizes - from young start-ups and fast-growth companies to established biotech and scientific research organisations. Situated next to the well-connected Westway and plenty of tubes lines, as well as the Westfield Shopping Centre, this Central Working site is the place to stay 'business-connected'.”
Reviews include: “I have worked at many co-working spaces, and visited even more. I prefer Central Working because it feels just great and simple, I really like the aesthetics of the space/the company's visual identity which are super nice and inspiring.”
“This place is more than a co-working space! Absolutely fantastic team of people who make it their business to help the members make meaningful connections that facilitate business growth.”
“The space is great and the staff are very friendly and accommodating.”
Perks include: On-site cafe and restaurant, 24 hour access, private phone booths, meeting rooms, discounts for local community facilities, showers and bike storage.
Ideal for: Tech start-ups or more established firms that want to benefit from working alongside likeminded companies in a support yet flexible environment.
Cost: Get in touch with Central Working for a bespoke quote.
Fora, Old Street
Image from foraspace.com
Address: 71 Central Street, London, EC1V 8AB
What it says: “On the nexus of Old Street’s tech hub and Clerkenwell’s design district, this beautiful workspace is designed to instill productivity and wellbeing.”
Reviews include: “Hands down the nicest co-working space in the area!!”
“Really great people! 24 hour work spaces with a focus on wellness. Professional. I love that the cofounder is a woman.”
“Friendly reception team. Always there to help and nothing is too little. Cleaning staff are always on point.”
Perks include: Stocked kitchen, 24 hour access, events programme, wellness facilities, concierge service, showers and bike storage.
Ideal for: Cool media, art, fashion and tech start-ups who prioritise health, wellbeing, and stylish spaces.
Cost: An owned desk starts at £475 + VAT per month.
Idea Space, Clapham
Image from ideaspace.london
Address: 83 Lavender Hill, London, SW11 5QL
What it says: “Idea Space is your local, creative and friendly co-working space where you can get all the necessary tools to work on your project whilst enjoying super fast wi-fi and a nice cup of artisan coffee!”
Reviews include: “Idea Space is one of the most comfortable places I've ever been to. Its high-end office furniture, top-notch broadband, friendly community, and down-to-earth staff make it the perfect place for anyone tired of WFH or in a busy office.”
“I had been struggling to find somewhere in London that offered quality co-working space at an affordable price until I found Idea Space. The staff are super friendly and helpful, and the workspace itself has always been immaculately clean, with great facilities including the free coffee!”
“Great place for solitary workers, and to have meetings.”
Perks include: Open office space, private phone booths, meeting rooms, day pass options.
Ideal for: Those looking for an affordable, pay-as-you-go, friendly co-working space with a range of membership options.
Cost: Hot desk from £300 + VAT per month.
WeWork, City of London
Image from wework.com
Address: 2 Minster Court, London, EC3R 7BB
What it says: “Surrounded by cultural attractions, new architectural designs, and historical points of interest, our City of London office space blends modern workspace with down-to-earth community. Collaborative floor plans inspire casual conversations with your team, while sleek private offices, light-filled lounges, and comfortable conference rooms help drive focus.”
Reviews include: “Such a lovely place to work: the office is bright and airy, the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. There's everything you need to get the job done, plus the good vibes and the great view :)”
“It totally changed my view for wework... The best place I have worked in London. My company was moved here for two months, and really wished we stayed for longer. The place is always very clean. Wework offers loads of activities throughout the week and loads of perks, like a coffee barista for the communal area, free beer after 15:00, great coffee machines , cookie jars (always full), great selection of tea. The working space is great, well designed and placed in every floor. A well lighted building (natural light I mean) Communal area is spacious and modern.”
“We've been in a couple of different WeWorks before, 2 Minster Court is hands down the friendliest and great communal space! The area itself is also very nice. We highly recommend it!”
Perks include: Stocked kitchen, barista, outdoor space, wellness room, dog friendly, mother’s room, event space, showers and bike storage.
Ideal for: Seasoned WeWorkers who want to try a well-regarded space in the heart of London’s financial district.
Cost: Dedicated desks not available here, but monthly membership for all locations starts at £299 + VAT per month.
Work.Life, Soho
Image from work.life
Address: Waverley House, 9 Noel St, London, W1F 8GQ
What it says: “Enviably central, find our new Soho space nestled in one of the hottest postcodes in London town. There’s plenty of natural light to go around in our bright and airy Soho space, with our impressive entrance and spectacular floor to ceiling windows. This incredible ground-floor space has all you need to be your most productive self, with brain-fuelling breakout spaces, posture-improving standing desks and private phone booths for those all important conversations.”
Reviews include: “This is a fantastic, vibey gem in the world of boring grey office spaces.”
“I've been a member of work.life for about three years- and I have been to most of their locations in London. Soho is definitely my favourite- in terms of location- 15 seconds walk from Oxford Street, close to the large M&S near Oxford Circus, so in the space of 10 mins walk you have good transport connections.”
“Great office space, really friendly staff and a perfect place for creative thinking.”
Perks include: Stocked kitchen, private phone booths, dog friendly, yoga classes, event space, showers and bike storage.
Ideal for: Entrepreneurs seeking a relaxed yet cool and creative office vibe, with the buzz of the West End on your doorstep.
Cost: Hot desk from £325 + VAT per month.
Don’t forget to grab your free coffee if you’re out and about in London!
Of course, if you do prefer to work from home, we have a ton of guides and resources to help making working from home work for you.
More working from home tips:
The Home Office Life guide to working from home
It's time you learned all the top tricks and tips you need to know to be successful working from home in your home office! We're talking about productivity hacks, ergonomic options, technology upgrades, and some furniture and décor suggestions.
How to optimise your home office and get the most out of working from home
Tips and tricks for a more productive work life:
Our top tricks for working from home
Be more productive on a Mac with these timesaving tips
The best way to clean your laptop, desktop or phone screen
Our recommended productivity books you have to read
How to claim tax relief for working from home
Exercising from home [ext link]
Working from home is a fantastic opportunity to be able to rebalance your work life and create yourself a new workflow and routine. However, working from home can be a challenge, as it requires having a good home office set up which many people find daunting. Don't worry though — we’re here to help with some top tips about how to get it just right!
At The Home Office Life we’ve been working hard to produce new content regularly for you as we all go through this digital transformation together. We’ve compiled all of our top tricks and tips you need to know to be successful working from home in your home office! We're talking about productivity hacks, ergonomic options, technology upgrades, and some furniture and décor suggestions. Get started below👇
Common signs you have Zoom fatigue (and how to combat it)
Zoom fatigue - or cybersickness - is real since working from home became the norm for many workers. Here are the common symptoms to look out for, and how to reduce the feeling.
It’s been over 2 years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and in that time, Zoom has dramatically changed the way people work from home in a range of industries. Perhaps before March 2020, videoconferencing was a rarity in your job, or you might have been communicating with colleagues and clients this way for a while.
However, one thing’s for sure: Zoom - and other videoconferencing tools like Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, GoToMeeting, Skype or WebEx - have never been used as much as they have in recent years.
In fact, by April 2020, there were 300 million daily users of Zoom compared to just 10 million in December 2019 (source).
For many businesses, apps like Zoom and Teams have been a lifeline. For others, the feeling of “Zoom fatigue” or “cybersickness” has been slowly creeping in, as their businesses have heavily adopted videoconferencing apps into their working processes.
What is Zoom fatigue?
Jena Lee, MD of the Psychiatric Times defines Zoom fatigue as the “tiredness, worry, or burnout associated with overusing virtual platforms of communication” (source). Many users of Zoom - and other video conferencing apps - say that Zoom fatigue is real, having described the feeling of Zoom fatigue in similar terms since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
What causes Zoom fatigue?
Why does Zoom fatigue happen? Researchers at Stanford University have outlined some common causes of the phenomenon that is Zoom fatigue:
When communicating via video chat rather than face-to-face, it takes longer for us to process non-verbal gestures. We often also end up overcompensating for this with lots of over-exaggerated movements like nodding, shaking our heads, waving and thumbs up.
Despite the over-exaggerated movements, our movement feels limited when on a video chat. For example, in real life, you might be inclined to walk around during a conversation, but you can’t do that in quite the same way when chatting on Zoom, so you can feel unnaturally restricted.
Having lots of faces appearing to stare at you constantly is intense - and it can even feel intimidating, especially when you’re not actively talking. As humans trained predominantly in face-to-face conversations, this can feel really uncomfortable.
Likewise, having to see your own face a lot isn’t much fun either and can make us feel critical of our appearance. It’s like walking around with a mirror all the time.
(source)
What are the symptoms of Zoom fatigue?
Symptoms of Zoom fatigue or cybersickness can vary, but if you notice any of the following in yourself, or in your colleagues, then it’s worth taking a look at what you can do to improve your situation,
Feeling burnt out after a day working from home
Feeling extra self-conscious about your appearance
Anxiety when joining calls
Wanting to constantly cancel or reschedule calls
Physical feelings of sickness, muscle pain or insomnia
Difficulty concentrating at work
Tips to combat Zoom fatigue:
Luckily, there are some things you can do to help you deal with the feelings of Zoom fatigue, such as:
Click the “hide self-view” button so you don’t see your own video on calls (source)
Do fun things on Zoom - or other video conferencing apps - like talk to family and friends to help you associate the app with positive interactions (source)
Reduce the size of the video chat application on your computer screen so it’s not on full-screen mode (source)
Try an audio-only call, or having a portion of the chat in audio-only mode, to give you and others a break from recognising and registering visual cues (source)
Could you have a phone call instead? Assess the situation beforehand to decide whether your upcoming meeting could happen in a different way (source)
Take short breaks if you can, especially during long calls (source)
Try some mindfulness practices before your meeting, like breathing exercises (including essential oils) or moisturising your hands (source)
Create distance from yourself and the screen or camera where possible by using an external keyboard and mouse (source)
Zoom’s vital statistics
How many users downloaded Zoom at the start of the pandemic?
In February 2020, there were just under 5 million downloads of the Zoom app (on iOS and Android) globally. By March 2020, this had surged to 26.9 million downloads, according to Prioriti Data (source).
What were the leading videoconferencing platforms used in 2020?
Zoom - 50.3% of respondents
Microsoft Teams - 12% of respondents
Facebook Live - 9.4% of respondents
Instagram Live - 7.3% of respondents
GoToWebinar - 5.8% of respondents
YouTube Live - 5.2% of respondents
On24 - 4.7% of respondents
WebEx - 1% of respondents
At the onset of the pandemic, Zoom was by far the most used videoconferencing platform compared to similar counterparts, like Teams and WebEx (source).
More work from home advice…
The best monitor to buy for working from home
Buying a new computer monitor can get a little overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re doing. Like a new mattress or sofa, you’re going to have to live with your purchase decision every day, so getting the right monitor for your work-from-home setup is crucial.
Buying a new computer monitor can get a little overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re doing. Like a new mattress or sofa, you’re going to have to live with your purchase decision every day, so getting the right monitor for your work-from-home setup is crucial. There are myriad different monitor brands from all over the place, and even within one brand, there are a thousand different monitor selections that can make things feel even more bewildering. To help out everyone who needs some guidance for buying monitors, we have created numerous recommendations to assist in your monitor purchase journey.
Best overall: The winner is…
Dell U2720Q UltraSharp USB-C 27inch 4K UHD
4.5 stars out of 5 (Amazon)
-6% RRP: £633
Who this is for: The Dell U2720Q UltraSharp monitor redefines your view with 3840x2160 resolution on a sharp, clear 27" screen. The brilliant picture quality and accurate colors of this QHD monitor will impress professionals who rely on precise image detail for critical work.
Why we like it: The Dell UltraSharp 27 Monitor, U2720Q , is the perfect solution for those looking to upgrade their current monitors. This monitor comes with a 4K (3840x2160) InfinityEdge display, which provides a seamless viewing experience and reduced bezels. As long as you’re not looking for a gaming monitor, this display comes with all the ports you’ll ever need including USB-C, USB 3.0, HDMI, Display Port, and an audio jack input, ensuring that you can set up your workstation once and never have to worry about it again. The U2720Q is also a HDR display, offers professional-grade color quality for all your content creation needs. and comes factory calibrated at 99% sRGB (ideal for graphic designers or photographers).
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Although the monitor comes with a USB-C input, it isn’t a Thunderbolt compatible display, so for Mac users you’ll likely need an external hub to connect all of your other accessories.
Best ultra wide: The winner is…
Samsung LS34J552WQRXXU 34inch UltraWQHD (3440 x 1440)
4.5 stars out of 5 (Amazon)
RRP: £349
Who this is for: A powerfully versatile performer ideal for multi-taskers and gamers, Samsung’s 34-inch UltraWide monitor makes games and movies more immersive than ever. With 21:9 aspect ratio, now you can get the same viewing experience with a wider screen that fills your field of vision. The IPS display with 99% sRGB accuracy is designed to complement the futuristic style of the curved screen, so it looks sleek and stylish in any setting.
Why we like it: Giving you a huge amount of screen real estate all packed into one monitor along with HDMI and DisplayPort connectivity, this Samsung display also features AMD FreeSync technology to eliminate image tearing and choppiness when gaming or video editing. Its special Mega Dynamic Contrast Ratio also offers an enhanced contrast level that gives you better visuals in any light conditions.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Although 1440p still provides a crisp viewing experience, it doesn’t quite have the pixel density like some more expensive competitors in the ultra wide space. The Samsung SJ55W also doesn’t allow HDR, so if you’re looking for a monitor to view or edit content in high dynamic range, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
Best affordable: The winner is…
ASUS VP228HE 21.5inch FHD (1920x1080)
4.6 stars out of 5 (Amazon)
RRP: £123
Who this is for: If budget is a concern, or even if you’re just looking for a second (or even third) display for your workstation, the ASUS lineup of 1080p monitors are a great choice. Rated on Amazon as the ‘most-loved’ budget monitor, you can't go wrong with this 21.5inch display.
Why we like it: The VP228HE 21.5" Full HD monitor with 100,000,000:1 ASUS smart high contrast ratio, SplendidPlus and VivdPixel technologies are designed for quality visuals and colour accuracy. The design also extends to the study stand and slim profile without compromising style in ensuring stability and durability. A perfect companion for web browsing, photo editing, word processing and productivity tools.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: At only £99 it’s hard to focus on the features and tech that you’d find on pricier monitors. The adage of ‘you get what you pay for’ is absolutely prevalent with computer monitors, so although you’re missing out on a higher resolution display, higher framerates and a more colour accurate display, the 22inch 1080p is still a great solution for many.
Choosing a computer monitor is a hugely personal choice, but with all of the recent additions to display technology comes a wealth of new jargon to keep up to date with. Doing your research is crucial, making sure you don’t end up with a monitor that just doesn’t fit into your workstation setup, or leaves you with missing features or technology that will frustrate you every day you use it. Sound off in the comments below what your favourite monitor is, or if you have one of our choices, let us know what you think of them! 👇
Disclaimer: Product links on our website are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something, we make a little bit of money. Learn more here.
What else does your home office need?
A compact folding desk for a small space
Ring light for your Zoom calls
More work from home advice…
No doubt working from home is convenient, but it’s not without its set of challenges, especially for small businesses.