Keep cool & carry on: How to work from home in a heatwave

Updated: 13th June 2023

Heat waves can be particularly challenging for those who work from home. One thing’s for sure - UK weather is unpredictable. One minute you’re wrapping up in blankets and wearing gloves to type on your keyboard without shivering, and the next you’re making that trip to the loft to dust down your fan to keep you cool as you work.

When it's hot outside, it can be difficult to stay focused and productive indoors. We share our tips when it comes to beating the heat when you’re working from home.

How to keep cool at work

1. Keep your curtains or blinds closed to keep out the sunlight, but by all means, keep the windows open behind them!

2. Create DIY air-con: place a bowl of ice cubes in front of your desk fan so it can waft extra cool air.

3. Go barefoot: don’t wear socks or slippers indoors - it’s the opposite of keeping your extremities (hands and toes!) covered in the winter!

4. Stay hydrated: hopefully this one’s a given, but keep sipping on water throughout the day to stay fresh. And you might want to avoid drinks that include caffeine when it’s hot.

5. Run your wrist pulse points under water - a simple tip, but can feel extra cooling on a hot, hot day! You could also use a peppermint oil to produce a cooling, tingling effect on your skin (be careful if you’re sensitive to essential oils, though).

6. Use a desk for your laptop, and not your lap, as you really won’t appreciate all your laptop heat directly warming up your skin. (See our pick of folding desks)

7. Start work earlier or much later if possible, so you can work outside of the sun’s hottest hours.

8. Turn off unused devices to try and reduce the amount of heat-generating items around you, like phone chargers or lights.

9. Avoid working outside despite how tempting this could be, as this is often quite unproductive in reality - thanks bugs, outdoor noises (car horns, neighbours…) and unbearable sun glare on your laptop screen.

10. Avoid eating meat as meat causes your body to use more energy to digest it. Instead, your lunch should be made up of super hydrating foods, but low energy-to-consume foods like a salad with cucumbers and lettuce.

11. Drink a hot drink. Hear us out on this one: a hot drink on a hot day raises your body temperature, which in turn causes you to sweat more. This will help your body cool down. Just don’t try this one at home if you’re on calls all day!

12. Try a hydrating mist to keep your face cool. Keep a hydrating spray by your desk and spritz as necessary to quickly refresh throughout the day, even on top of makeup. We love Sukin’s Original Hydrating Mist Toner for this very reason!
    
    

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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I have to work in an office when it’s hot. Is there a legal requirement to keep the workplace cool?

If you’re unable to work from home this summer, then you might be wondering what your rights are when it comes to hot temperatures working in the office. Although there isn’t a set temperature that’s legally “too hot” to work in, the TUC (Trade Union Congress) advises the following:

“The TUC has called for a maximum temperature of 30°C (27°C for those doing strenuous work), so that employers and workers know when action must be taken. However even if the temperature is slightly below that, employers should still attempt to reduce temperatures if they get above 24°C and workers feel uncomfortable”

— The TUC, "Cool it! Reps guide on dealing with high temperatures in the workplace", 2018

The Health and Safety Executive state that the temperature in an indoor working space should be “reasonable” and that employers must:

• keep the temperature at a comfortable level

• provide clean and fresh air

If you feel this isn’t the case, speak to your manager about the situation.

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As you can see, there are luckily quite a few things you can do to keep cool while working from home indoors. investing in a few key products and testing these tips can make a big difference. Keep cool & carry on! ✌️

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Why taking a restorative mental health is important every once in a while for remote workers

In 1981 the number of employees working from home was 1.5% compared to 2019, when it was reported to have increased to 4.7%. By April 2020, at the start of the pandemic, the figures for working from home rose to 46.6%, with over half of these workers doing so due to Covid 19. Our blog work from home UK statistics 2023 discusses how the trend will continue to alter due to the government constantly changing its advice. There are no exact figures for how much home-based work improves productivity, but many say they spend more hours working than previously.

However, it does have its disadvantages; the sudden growth of homeworking has taken its toll on many people’s mental well-being. A study by the Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data has shown that home-centred workers, especially those new to it, find it difficult to concentrate and are easily distracted by normal day-to-day activities. Many constantly felt under pressure to carry on as they would in the office environment but without the support of the rest of their ‘team.’ Loneliness and feeling isolated due to the lack of communication with co-workers, especially with younger workers, is another major factor for those experiencing mental health problems. A restorative mental health day is one way to take a break from work and rejuvenate your senses. The ‘12 Tips for Taking A Restorative Mental Health Day’ by Zocdoc Brianna Graham has some good advice on the best ways to relax. The article details that whatever you choose to do on your day off, it should leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed, helping to restore your mental well-being and ease the causes, as discussed below.

Isolation and Loneliness

It is a natural human emotion to feel lonely. Our brain is programmed to seek communication with others, and loneliness is a sign that we need more social contact. According to The Marmalade Trust’s guide to loneliness, people from every age group can sometimes succumb to feelings of isolation and seclusion. Working from home can cause these feelings; even if you are still in contact through webinars and video meetings, face-to-face interaction with colleagues is not the same. On a mental health restorative day, reach out to family and friends and enjoy quality time together. Avoid work-related chat, and you will find that focusing on something else makes your mind and body feel relaxed.

Not Being Active

It is so easy to get so engrossed in what you are doing when working at home. Time passes, and you realise you have been sitting in the same position for a long while. This is not good for your body or brain. Setting aside a period to venture outside your workspace, even briefly, helps keep you mobile. During the Covid 19 pandemic, the government encouraged people to exercise more to relieve stress and stay active; this can still be applied today to those working remotely. On a restorative mental health day, you can go further afield. Plan an activity you used to enjoy, visit the gym for a workout, take a walk in the park, and commune with nature or enjoy some retail therapy. Being active is great for restoring your mental and physical well-being, leaving you happy and relaxed.

Working Too Many Hours

Our bodies need routines like setting the alarm, getting out of bed, and preparing for work. When working from home, many people are too relaxed in their approach to when they work. Not having a set routine can lead to being constantly glued to your computer or the opposite, pursuing other activities and putting work aside until the end of the day. Having an organized workspace can also lead to longer working hours; having to share a room where there are constant interruptions by family members prolongs your working day. Taking a day off gives you time to sort out a dedicated workspace to spend a planned number of working hours. This may seem like a work-related exercise, but it will ease the pressure on your brain by not struggling with a work-life balance.

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Managing stress when working from home

Stress is a normal part of life, and it's something that we all experience from time to time. However, prolonged periods of stress can lead to burnout and have negative effects on both our physical and mental health. There’s been a wealth of research undertaken in recent years that highlights how stress is impacting everyday lives for workers, and how working from home may put you more at risk of experiencing stress or anxiety;

According to a recent study conducted by the American Psychological Association, 75% of employees experienced at least one symptom of stress in the past month, such as feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

Additionally, a survey by Monster found that 69% of employees experienced burnout symptoms while working remotely during the pandemic.

A study by Buffer found that 20% of remote workers cited loneliness as their biggest challenge, and 18% cited communication as a significant source of stress. The same study found that 22% of remote workers struggle with unplugging from work, which can lead to work-life balance issues and increased stress.

Biggest challenge of working from home (Buffer)

Furthermore, research by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) suggests that remote workers may be at a higher risk for certain stressors, such as social isolation, longer work hours, and difficulty separating work and personal life.

Research has also revealed there may be a link between working from home and an increase in the amount of screen time per person. Specifically, in 2022, adults in the UK spend an average of 5 hours per day on screens, which represents a 2-hour increase from the data recorded in 2020 (Source).

These statistics highlight the importance of proactively managing stress when working from home and implementing strategies to maintain good mental and physical health, as managing workplace stress when working from home requires a proactive approach.

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Here are some tips to help you manage stress while working remotely:

Set Boundaries

One of the biggest challenges of working from home is separating work life from personal life. It's important to set boundaries and create a routine that allows you to switch off from work when you're done for the day. This means setting specific times for work and sticking to them, taking breaks, and avoiding the temptation to check your work email or take work calls outside of your designated work hours.

Create a Dedicated Workspace

Creating a dedicated and efficient workspace in your home can help you focus and be more productive while also reducing stress. Choose a quiet space where you can work without distractions, and make sure you have all the necessary equipment and tools you need to work efficiently.

Take Regular Breaks

Taking regular breaks throughout the day can help reduce stress and increase productivity. It's essential to take short breaks every few hours, stretch your legs, and get some fresh air. You can also use your break time to do something that relaxes you, like meditation or yoga.

Taking care of yourself sounds easier said than done. Mindfulness, meditation, yoga, self-care and therapy have exploded in popularity in recent years, and with you able to undertake most of these activities from home, you can easily fit these in to your busy day.

Stay Connected

Working from home can be isolating, but it doesn't have to be. Make sure to stay connected with your colleagues, friends, and family members. You can use video conferencing tools like Zoom or Skype to stay in touch and schedule virtual coffee breaks or happy hours to stay connected with your team. But, be mindful of how ‘Zoom fatigue’ can also lead to stress and anxiety, if overused.

Practice Self-Care

Practicing self-care is essential for managing workplace stress. Take time to do something that you enjoy, like reading a book or taking a walk in nature. It's also essential to get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly to maintain good physical and mental health. In addition to these practices, exploring holistic approaches such as IV therapy NYC can provide a rejuvenating boost, helping replenish vital nutrients and restoring your energy levels, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and balanced well-being.

Managing workplace stress when working from home requires a proactive approach. By setting boundaries, creating a dedicated workspace, taking regular breaks, staying connected, and practicing self-care, you can reduce stress and maintain good physical and mental health. Remember, working from home doesn't mean you have to be available 24/7, and it's essential to take time for yourself to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

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How to make excellent espresso at home

Making a quality espresso at home is a bit more complicated than making excellent filter coffee.

Making an excellent espresso involves getting the following five variables right:

• Brew ratio

• Brewing temperature

• Coffee grind size

• Quantity of ground coffee you use

• Brew time

Here we will go through how you can control all these variables with a basic espresso machine in order to create a drink that will rival anything you’d get from a coffee shop.

Brew Ratio: Weigh Out Your Ground Coffee and Final Espresso

One of the most important factors in making an excellent espresso is getting the correct brew ratio.

Brew ratio refers to the quantity of ground coffee that you brew with, compared to the quantity of liquid espresso that ends up in your cup.

Espresso should typically have a brew ratio of 1:1.3, but this ideal ratio can vary a bit depending on the type of coffee beans that you use.

The only way that you can accurately measure your brew ratio is by weighing out both your initial dose of ground coffee and the liquid that ends up in your cup.

You will need a scale to do this. Make sure that your scale is small enough to fit under your cup while making your espresso and that it can weigh to the nearest gram.

While it's easier to measure out your final espresso by volume, rather than weight, and to work on the assumption that one millilitre of liquid espresso weighs one gram, this is inaccurate due to the layer of crema that forms atop your espresso.
Crema adds significantly to the volume of your espresso without actually adding much extra liquid to it (crema is mainly air).

Therefore, to measure out your brew ratio accurately you will need to weigh both your ground and liquid coffee rather than measure it by some other means.

Do Not Exceed Maximum Coffee Dose For Your Portafilter Basket

The part of your espresso machine where your ground coffee sits during brewing is called its portafilter basket (the larger, detachable part of your espresso machine that holds your ground coffee is called its portafilter.)

Portafilter to the left and portafilter basket to the right

Each portafilter basket was designed to hold a maximum dose of ground coffee.

If you exceed this dose, then your brewing water will not be able to cover your ground coffee evenly. 

This will create a bitter final drink as parts of your coffee bed that get the majority of the direct contact with your brewing water will become over extracted, and leech their harsher tasting compounds into your brewing water.

Your machine’s portafilter basket should have its maximum ground coffee capacity printed on its outside. If you cannot find it there, then it will definitely be in your machine’s instruction manual.

Use this as a fixed variable, and then use your desired brewing ratio (again 1:1.3 ground to liquid coffee is a good start) to determine how much water you want to brew with.

Brewing with less ground coffee than your portafilter basket’s maximum dose is not a problem.

Warm Up Your Portafilter Basket Before You Make Your First Espresso

Espresso should be brewed at a temperature between 92 and 96 degrees Celsius. If your brewing water is any cooler than this, then it will not extract the flavorful compounds out of your ground coffee efficiently enough and you will end up with a very flat tasting final drink.

While even a cheap espresso machine will likely heat your water up to this ideal brewing temperature, if your metal portafilter basket is cold then your water’s temperature will likely drop below 92 degrees Celsius when it hits your coffee bed.

You should therefore warm up your portafilter prior to making your espresso. 

The easiest way to do this is to pull a blank shot, that is a shot without any ground coffee in your portafilter. The hot water should bring your portafilter basket to a temperature where it allows you to brew your espresso at 92-96 degrees Celsius.

At coffee shops, baristas tend to pull a handful of blank shots before making their first espresso. This probably is not necessary for a home machine, however more blank shots certainly won’t hurt.

Use a Pressurised Portafilter Basket if You are Brewing With Pre Ground Coffee

While I’d generally recommend making espresso with freshly ground coffee, you can still pull a decent shot using pre ground coffee if you use a pressurised portafilter basket.

Pressurised portafilter baskets differ from non-pressurised portafilter baskets in that the former only has one tiny hole where your liquid espresso can come out of. The latter has dozens, if not hundreds of these tiny holes.

The red circle shows the single hole on the pressurised portafilter basket on the right

Pressurised portafilter baskets are necessary for making good espresso with pre ground coffee because pre ground coffee tends to be ground coarsely (by espresso standards).

The coarser ground your coffee, the larger the spaces are between each individual grind. 

Large spaces between grinds means that your brewing water will run through your coffee faster, resulting in less contact time between your coffee and water. This will lower extraction resulting in a dull tasting coffee.

The single hole on a pressurised portafilter acts as a bottleneck forcing your brewing water to sit in with your puck of ground coffee and therefore increasing the contact time between the two. This allows you to achieve a good extraction even with pre ground coffee.

If you use freshly ground coffee, and have a high quality burr grinder, then you will want to use a non pressurised portafilter basket as the ground coffee bed alone will offer enough resistance to your brewing water to allow for sufficient extraction.

If you have a lower quality grinder and grind your own beans then you still might want to use a pressurised portafilter basket. 

A good way of testing whether you are better suited to a pressurised portafilter basket is by timing your shots. If your shots brew in anything under 22 seconds then you may want to switch to a pressurised portafilter basket, even if you grind your own beans.

Most espresso machines come with both pressurised and non pressurised portafilter baskets so you can make good espresso with both pre ground and freshly ground coffee.

Adjust Your Espressos Flavor By Changing Your Grind Size Setting

One of the biggest advantages of having your own coffee grinder is that the best way of fine tuning your espresso’s flavour is by adjusting your coffee’s grind size.

Trying to change your espresso’s flavour by adjusting the quantity of coffee that you use is like trying to hammer a nail with a sledgehammer. Even small changes in your brew ratio can make huge changes in your espresso’s final flavour.

You are far better off adjusting your espresso’s flavour by playing around with the grind size of your coffee.

As a general rule:

• Coarser ground coffee will result in a more mild flavoured drink. Too coarse and your drink can be very dull tasting or a touch sour.

• Finer ground coffee will result in a bolder drink. Too fine and your espresso will be harsh tasting.

The general best practice here is to keep grinding finer and finer until your espresso is too harsh tasting and then go back one setting. This should make as rich as coffee as possible without tasting harsh.

While making espresso is trickier than making coffee in a French press, it is a skill that can be mastered with a bit of practice.

So long as you meet the desired brew ratio, brewing temperature, and contact time between ground coffee and water, you should end up with an espresso that helps you hit the ground running every morning.

This article was written by Oli Baise, a barista who runs the coffee blog Drinky Coffee

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Top tips for setting up your home office desk

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced millions of people to work from home, which has resulted in a surge in demand for home office setups. With the lines between personal and professional life becoming increasingly blurred, setting up a home office that is comfortable, functional, and conducive to productivity has become more important than ever.

A well-designed home office can help you stay focused, minimize distractions, and create a space that inspires you to be productive. However, setting up a home office desk can be challenging, especially if you are new to working from home. From choosing the right location to setting up your computer and monitor correctly, there are many factors to consider.

We will share our top tips for setting up your home office desk. Whether you are creating a dedicated workspace or carving out a corner of your living room, these tips will help you create a setup that works for you. We will cover everything from selecting the right location to adding personal touches that make your workspace feel inviting and inspiring.

By following these tips, you can create a home office setup that will help you stay productive, focused, and motivated while working from home. Whether you are a seasoned remote worker or new to the world of telecommuting, these tips will help you set up a home office that meets your needs and helps you achieve your goals.

• Choose the right location

• Get a comfortable chair

• Adjust your chair and desk height

• Use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse

• Keep your desk organised

• Use proper lighting

• Set up your computer and monitor correctly

• Add personal touches

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Choose the right location

The first step in setting up your home office is to choose the right location. Ideally, you want a quiet and well-lit room with minimal distractions. If you can, choose a room with a window that lets in natural light. This can help improve your mood and energy levels, as well as reduce eye strain from working under artificial light.

Get a comfortable chair

One of the most important pieces of furniture in your home office is your chair. You'll be spending a lot of time sitting in it, so it's important to choose one that provides good support for your back and is comfortable to sit in for long periods. Look for a chair with adjustable height and lumbar support, so you can customize it to your body.

Adjust your chair and desk height

Once you have your chair, it's important to adjust it to the right height. Your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle when you type, and your feet should be flat on the floor. If your chair is too low, you may end up slouching, which can lead to back pain. If it's too high, you may end up straining your neck and shoulders.

Use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse

Typing and using a mouse can put a lot of strain on your wrists and hands, which can lead to repetitive strain injuries. To avoid this, invest in an ergonomic keyboard and mouse. These are designed to reduce strain on your hands and wrists by allowing them to stay in a natural position.

Logitech MX Master 3 Advanced Wireless Mouse
-21% £94.95

Our recommended wireless mouse is ideal for Mac and Windows users.

Keep your desk organised

A cluttered desk can be distracting and make it harder to focus. Keep your desk tidy by using drawers, shelves, and organizers to store your supplies and paperwork. This will help you stay focused and avoid getting overwhelmed by clutter.

Keeping clutter out of sight and out of mind leads to a much more productive environment!

Use proper lighting

Good lighting is essential for a home office setup. Make sure your desk is well-lit with a combination of natural and artificial light. Natural light is ideal, as it can help improve your mood and energy levels. If you don't have access to natural light, consider investing in a high-quality desk lamp.

Set up your computer and monitor correctly

Your computer and monitor should be set up at the right height and distance to reduce eye strain and neck pain. Position your computer monitor at eye level, and make sure it's at least an arm's length away from your face. This will help reduce neck strain and prevent eye fatigue.

Add personal touches

Last and not least, don't forget to add some personal touches to your home office setup. This can help make your workspace feel more inviting and inspiring. Consider adding a plant, photos, or other decor that makes you happy and motivates you to work.

In conclusion, setting up a home office desk can seem overwhelming at first, but with the right tips and tricks, it can be a breeze. By following these suggestions, you can create a workspace that's comfortable, organized, and perfect for getting your work done. Don't forget to add some personal touches that make you feel happy and motivated, whether it's a plant, a favorite photo, or some inspiring artwork. With the right setup, you'll be able to work from home with ease and make the most of your time. So, grab a cup of coffee, put on some music, and get ready to create the home office of your dreams!

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How working from home is making it easier to be a parent [Statistics]

As the world continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, many parents have found themselves adapting to a new way of working: from home. While this transition has been challenging for many, there are some unexpected benefits to working from home that have made life easier for parents.

Remote work mainly affects the fertility of women who already have multiple children, while it has no effect on the fertility intentions of women with no or one child.

According to the Demographic Intelligence Family Survey, recent research (2023) suggests that female remote workers are more inclined to plan having a baby, particularly if they are wealthier, older, and more educated, in comparison to their colleagues who work in an office. In addition, the study found that remote workers are more likely to tie the knot in the upcoming year compared to nonremote workers.

• Remote workers, particularly those living with children, spend more time on childcare and housework due to the absence of time-consuming commutes, resulting in increased birth rates, especially for wealthier or more educated women. (Source)

• Unmarried remote workers have higher chances of getting married in the next year compared to non-remote workers, possibly due to higher migration rates. (Source)

• While remote work has a mild positive impact on the likelihood of near-term pregnancy, it significantly affects fertility intentions for women aged over 35, especially over 39. (Source)

• Remote women with significantly improved household finances are over 10% more likely to report being pregnant or trying to be so compared to non-remote workers. (Source)

• Remote work mainly affects the fertility of women who already have multiple children, while it has no effect on the fertility intentions of women with no or one child. (Source)

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The benefits of working from home for parents

Flexible Schedules

One of the biggest advantages of working from home for parents is the ability to have a more flexible schedule. When working from an office, parents often have to abide by strict schedules and may have to leave work early to pick up their children from school or attend a school function. However, when working from home, parents have the freedom to adjust their work schedule to fit their family's needs. This means they can take breaks to help their children with schoolwork or attend virtual parent-teacher conferences without worrying about taking time off from work.

No Commute

Another benefit of working from home is the elimination of the daily commute. Commuting to work can be stressful and time-consuming, especially for parents who have to drop off their children at school or daycare before heading to work. By eliminating the commute, parents have more time to spend with their children in the morning, which can make the day feel less rushed and more relaxed.

More Time with Family

Working from home also allows parents to spend more time with their family. When working in an office, parents may only see their children in the morning and evening, leaving little time for quality time together. However, when working from home, parents can take breaks throughout the day to spend time with their children, whether it's playing a game or having lunch together. This extra time with family can lead to stronger bonds and a better work-life balance.

Reduced Stress

Finally, working from home can help reduce stress levels for parents. Juggling work and family responsibilities can be challenging, but working from home eliminates some of the stressors that come with an office environment. There's no need to worry about traffic or finding childcare, which can lead to a more relaxed and focused work environment. Additionally, being able to take breaks throughout the day to spend time with family can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

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Clearly working from home has provided some unexpected benefits for parents. From flexible schedules to more time with family, working from home has made life easier for many parents. As we continue to navigate these uncertain times, it's important to look for the positives and appreciate the small joys that come with working from home.

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Currently working from home? Read these:

• Key tax dates and deadlines for 2023/24

• Best ring lights for professionals

• Books to improve your productivity

• How to claim tax relief working from home

• Hybrid working: the best co-working spaces in London

• Best office chair to buy for WFH

• Can your employer force you to go back to the office?

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A quick start guide to designing your home

Photo credit: Kenny Eliason

Designing your home for life is about creating a space that best represents your personality and lifestyle. It's a process that includes everything from color and lighting to storage and furniture.

Today, our homes are more than just a place to sleep. It is the place where we share life with the people we love. In our society, working from home and enjoying various forms of entertainment from home is common.

We can set up a workspace that creates calmness. We can gather in our family areas to stream movies, visit with friends and family via the internet and even play the lottery without leaving home.

Below are a few tips to help you transform your home into the house of your dreams.

Photo credit: Andrew Ridley

Best colors of the year for walls

The best colors for walls this year are bold but still grounded. Blue hues like Valspar’s Vining Ivy are perfect for a calming vibe, as they communicate tranquility and balance.

This color works well with more neutrals, natural textures, and luxe elements to create a beautiful, calming space. This is the perfect choice for bedrooms, bathrooms, and home offices.

Another popular wall color this year is Sherwin Williams’ Origami White (SW 7636). This warm white is an excellent option for a modern and minimalist interior.

In addition to being one of the most popular neutrals, it is also a color that is easy to paint over and reflects light very well in a room. It is also versatile and can adapt to many design styles, from coastal to modern.

Furniture selections

Furniture is a considerable part of the home design process. Choosing the best pieces for your home will help you create a space that reflects your style.

According to Vogue, some significant changes are happening in home decor. Create a calm space with earth tones. Use bold colors to add interest but not overpower the room. Farmhouse styles are fading this year, and more traditional furniture is returning.

The right furniture can also enhance your space and improve the functionality of your home. When selecting the best pieces for your area, consider the traffic you have in that room and what activities you will be doing in it.

Luckily, several retailers offer the best furniture selections to fit any budget. Some of these retailers even have curated selections, so you won’t have to browse the internet to find your next best piece. The best is that you can shop for your new favorite pieces right from the comfort of your home!

Photo credit: Roberto Nickson

Home office

Whether you work from home or have an office space, creating a functional workspace that inspires you and allows you to do your best work is critical. Here are a few tips to remember as you plan your home office layout and add decorative elements.

1. Select a color scheme that suits you and your workspace.

Choosing the right colors can help you feel more energized and focused or less distracted if your work is tedious and physical. Consider warm sandy tan, gray, and comfortable hues of blue and green.

2. Pick furniture that will adapt to your changing needs as you grow your business or change jobs.

For example, if you’re an architect, consider a large desk to draw on and a minimal chair for drafting plans. Likewise, if you’re an accountant, a sleek desk will allow you to access essential data without taking up too much room.

Take advantage of the space available to you. Use shelves, cupboards, and boxes for storage and create an inspiring area. Your office furniture must be comfortable, and you want the room to be bright and inspiring.

Entertainment areas

When designing your home for life, you want it to be comfortable and adaptable to your needs. One of the best ways to achieve that is to create entertainment areas.

You’ll need to ensure the room has a comfortable and functional layout, with enough seating for large groups and intimate conversations. You can also use modular furniture pieces to make the space accessible to reconfigure when necessary. This way, you can open the area for a big gathering or create small sitting areas for smaller numbers.

Lighting is a crucial element in making an entertainment area feel welcoming. Choose lighting that enhances the ambiance, is easy to moderate, and minimizes screen glare. Overhead lighting must be subtle. Lighting can bring a dark room to life but keep it understated.

Lighting is essential; figuring out the right amount of light for any room can be tricky. The wrong lighting can leave a room dark and dull or glaringly bright.

Conclusion

Your home is probably the largest investment in your life. Whether it is your forever home or a starter home, it should be customized to fit into your lifestyle. Staying with classic fabrics and schemes is always a wise choice. If you choose your furnishings carefully, your home will be easy to keep current with minor changes. This is the perfect year to make changes that will improve the look and feel of your home.

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More work from home advice…

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. 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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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

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More work from home advice…

Working from Home: Gift Guide (Under £100)

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.

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Want more tips on working from home? Check these posts out:

Working from Home: Gift Guide (Under £30)

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.

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More work from home advice…

Popular hotel chains check-in and check-out times

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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Want more working from home advice?

What’s the best professional ring light?

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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Want more tips on working from home? Check these posts out:

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. 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.

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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. 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.

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/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!

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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.

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More work from home advice…

Hybrid working: the best co-working spaces in London

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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More working from home tips:

Common signs you have Zoom fatigue (and how to combat it)

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:

1. Click the “hide self-view” button so you don’t see your own video on calls (source)

2. 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)

3. Reduce the size of the video chat application on your computer screen so it’s not on full-screen mode (source)

4. 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)

5. Could you have a phone call instead? Assess the situation beforehand to decide whether your upcoming meeting could happen in a different way (source)

6. Take short breaks if you can, especially during long calls (source)

7. Try some mindfulness practices before your meeting, like breathing exercises (including essential oils) or moisturising your hands (source)

8. 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?

1. Zoom - 50.3% of respondents

2. Microsoft Teams - 12% of respondents

3. Facebook Live - 9.4% of respondents

4. Instagram Live - 7.3% of respondents

5. GoToWebinar - 5.8% of respondents

6. YouTube Live - 5.2% of respondents

7. On24 - 4.7% of respondents

8. 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).

Read more WFH tips:

• What’s the best professional ring light?

• What’s the best way of making coffee?

• Choosing the right automatic coffee machine

• 18 free printables to help you get organised

• Key tax dates 2022/23

• The best office chair to buy for working from home

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More work from home advice…

Aeropress vs V60 vs French Press: the best manual coffeemakers to up your home brewing game

Coffee connoisseurs rejoice! When you’re thinking about the best way to make coffee at home, do you think about buying an automatic coffee machine or a manual coffeemaker? A manual coffeemaker gives you ultimate control over the coffee you make, and there’s a huge range of makers available.

What’s the best manual coffeemaker?

Making great coffee at home doesn’t need to be hard. While it may seem daunting, anyone can brew delicious, fresh coffee at home with the right equipment and clever pour-over methods. If you’re looking to step up your brewing game, you can take your coffee from mediocre to magnificent with a manual coffeemaker and a little know-how. Read on to learn more about the best manual coffeemakers available, so you can make barista-style coffee at home.

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.

French press/cafetière

If you’re looking for an easy pour-over-style method of coffee brewing, look no further than a French press or cafetière. If you’ve ever used one, you know it takes several minutes (but only about 4-5 minutes) to brew a pot of coffee with one.

This is your typical “immersion brew” method - as your ground coffee is immersed in water, and is loved by coffee drinkers for the ease and speed of crafting a beverage.

Did you know you can make more than just coffee in your cafetière? Read our French press hacks.

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Chemex

The Chemex is a wonderfully retro-looking pour-over glass coffeemaker. It works by infusing - or dripping - water through coffee grounds that sit in a filter to the glass chamber's bottom half.

Chemex filters are typically thicker than ones used for other devices, like the V60, so the brews are slower - but often richer in flavour. Overall, fans love the coffeemaker because it’s known for delivering a smooth cup of coffee.

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Hario V60

Like the Chemex, the V60 is an infusion-based (or drip-brew) pour-over manual coffeemaker. However, it’s a lot more portable than the Chemex, thanks to its teacup-shaped design. Because you place it directly above your cup, it’s also a convenient choice, for a quick clean up.

The V60 works by inserting a filter paper into the v-shaped cup, which is placed directly on top of your drinking cup, adding your coffee grounds, and then slowly pouring hot water on top.

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Aeropress

The Aeropress is a cross between a pour-over, a French press and an espresso machine. How? You pour water on top of your coffee grounds, you plunge just as you would with a cafetière, and it relies on the element of pressure, which is crucial in brewing espresso.

Just like the V60, the Aeropress is a manual coffeemaker designed with convenience in mind. You can take it with you and brew it directly into your cup of choice, with the pressure of the plunging motion forcing the water through to extract the coffee flavour and oils.

Liked this post? You’ll love:

• What’s the best way of making coffee?

• Choosing the right automatic coffee machine

• 3 easy French press coffee hacks

• Where can I find free coffee in the UK?

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More work from home advice…

Top 5 folding home office desks for small spaces

What’s a home office without a desk?

Having the right desk for your home office space is crucial. If your home office is on the smaller side, or it’s just a temporary space, you could really benefit from a desk that folds away.

There’s even a subculture growing online and new startup companies looking to capitalise on the surge in small home offices.

Not sure you could fit a desk into your room? Think again! Folding desks allow you to quickly change a room from a productive office space to a space to relax or entertain.

Luckily, these folding desks are as stylish as they are functional, meaning there’s no compromise just because it’s not a permanent feature. Here’s our pick of the best foldable desks available to buy on Amazon right now, to suit a range of spaces, style preferences and budgets.

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.

Aingoo Folding Computer Desk 

4.8 of out 5 stars

Dimensions: 100 x 50 x 72 cm

This MDF oak coloured folding desk has a sleek industrial style that will suit most rooms. Customers love the Aingoo design for its sturdiness and waterproof finish (great for the accidental coffee spill!). Easily fits a 27 inch monitor, too!

GreenForest 2-Tier Folding Desk

4.6 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: 81.3 x 81.3 x 83 cm

A slim, black metal foldable desk that features a handy shelf just above the desk. The shelf is ideal for a second monitor, or your home office accessories.

COSTWAY Wall-Mounted Drop-Leaf Table

4.5 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: 80 x 60 cm

A drop-leaf desk is perfect if you’re really tight for space. Instead of a desk with legs, this white MDF desk is wall-mounted to maximise space. Simply fold down when you’re no longer using it. Customers have found this desk extremely durable and sturdy, and have found it doubles up nicely as a shelf too!

Farelves Folding Desk Foldable Computer Desk

4.5 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: 100 x 48 x 74 cm

A real budget friendly option, the Farelves white foldable desk is slim enough to fit in a range of spaces, but wide enough to provide plenty of that all important desk space.

Redd Royal Folding Computer Desk

4.3 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: 80 x 45 x 75 cm

Available in either black or white, this compact folding desk is another cost-effective option for extra small spaces. Its modern and simple style will look brilliant in a range of rooms, while taking up minimal room while it’s in use and once it’s folded away.

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What else does your home office need?

• A new monitor for your folding desk

• Ring light for your Zoom calls

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Read more working from home tips & guides:

How can you claim tax relief for working from home?

Did you know that you can claim tax relief if you’ve had to work from home?

It doesn't matter whether you work at home all week or just part of it, you’re able to claim tax relief on £6 per week. However, you can’t claim tax relief if you choose to work from home, so this is best suited to office workers who had to work from home this year and last year due to COVID-19.

What’s more, you can even backdate your claim for up to 4 years, which is helpful if you began working from home back in March 2020 and not yet made a claim.

What can you claim tax relief for?

You may be able to claim tax relief for gas and electricity, metered water, business phone calls and internet access, and potentially even on equipment you’ve bought, like computers, desks and chairs (which you can do here).

Again, note that you can’t claim for the whole bill, just the part that relates to your work.

How much tax relief you can you claim?

You can claim tax relief on £6 a week from 6 April 2020 without requiring any evidence like invoices or receipts. If you claim tax relief on £6 a week, you’d get £1.20 per week in tax relief if you pay the 20% basic rate of tax, which works out at £62.40 a year. Higher rate taxpayers who pay 40% can claim £2.40 per week in tax relief, which means you can claim £124.80 a year.

You can also claim the exact amount of extra costs you’ve incurred above the £6 a week amount, but you’ll need evidence such as receipts, bills or contracts to do this.

In total, you can claim up to £125 per year.

How do you receive this tax relief?

Once your application has been approved, your 2021/22 tax code will be adjusted, so you’ll receive this tax relief directly through your salary.

Related: see all the 2021/22 tax dates you need to know.

How to claim

1. Check you can claim on the GOV.UK website here.

2. Follow HMRC’s questions to make your claim.

3. You might need to create your Government Gateway ID, if you don’t already have one. If you need to do so, you’ll need your NI number and a form of ID (your P60 or valid UK passport will work here).

4. You’ll also need evidence like receipts and bills to hand if you’re looking to claim an exact amount for costs.

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More work from home advice…

Can your employer force you to go back to the office?

What are your rights if your boss asks you to come back to work?

Here is some guidance to help you understand your rights about returning to work after a period of working from home. However, please do note that this advice does not constitute legal advice, which you should always seek from an HR executive or legal professional.

What is the latest advice from the Government?

In the UK, the Government’s working from home guidance ended when many other COVID-19 restrictions did on 19th July 2021. This means that workers are no longer advised to work from home, so it’s likely that employers will start plan for members of staff to start returning to work.

However, many companies are keen to keep a “hybrid working” or “flexible working” structure in place since lockdown, with employees working partly at home and partly in the office, including big businesses like Google, Uber and Microsoft. Some businesses have even locked up their office doors and have moved to a complete remote working structure.

So, what if your boss has asked you to come back to the office, either permanently or on a part-time basis. Do you have to?

Depending on the terms of your contract, the likelihood is that you should return to work if your manager asks you to do, as a “reasonable management request”. Many contracts will stipulate that your work is to be carried out in your office.

You can, however, legally request “flexible working” if you have worked for the same employer for at least 26 weeks. Your employer will have to deal with your request in a “reasonable manner”, whether that’s assessing the pros and cons of your requests and having a meeting with you to talk about your requirements. They should also let you appeal their decision if you don’t agree.

If you already have a flexible working agreement in place, then your employer can’t change this without your consent first.

More information on requesting flexible working is available here.

What if you don’t feel safe working in an office?

Your employer should be doing all they can to keep your office a safe place to work. This includes:

• Completing a health and safety risk assessment, considering adjustments needed for all staff

• Making sure there’s plenty of fresh air in indoor spaces by providing adequate ventilation (a CO2 monitor can help)

• Having the office cleaned more frequently

• Providing hand sanitisers

• Ensuring those who have any COVID-19 symptoms do not come to work and instead self-isolate

• Encouraging the continued use of face coverings, particularly in crowded indoor spaces.

Read more about this here.

Speak to your employer or HR executive if you’re not happy with the safety precautions that are (or indeed aren’t) in place, or you can contact Citizens Advice or Health and Safety Executive.

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More advice can be found at:

• Citizens Advice

• Working safely during COVID-19 - UK Government

• Health and Safety Executive

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