In a world where remote working has become much more common, it makes sense to have a study or computer room at home. There you have a quiet place to work and study. Not only that, but you’ll also have a dedicated space that you can set up and equip for the purpose.
Additionally, this space will help you to maintain a healthy work-life balance because it draws a line in the home between family space and professional workspace. After working there during the day, you can close the door on it and be with your family in the evening.
But what you do need to consider when setting up your study? Which brands are best? Below is a look at some of the essential considerations and indispensable items you need to build a good home study.
Setting up Your Study
When designing your study, you’ll need to think about how much space is available and how you’re going to make the most of it. What furniture will you have to make the study comfortable?
Lighting is also important: will you be able to make the most of natural lighting? Air quality is another major consideration. You want to be able to open your windows, but not at times when the air quality is especially poor.
Now, onto the essential items.
Desktop Computer
If you’re using your study to work from home, you’ll need a reliable computer. When it comes to desktop computers, Dell still the lead way. The XPS 8960 can handle just about any task you throw at it.
This is handy for gaming or other activities you could use the room for, such as streaming movies from Netflix. You can be trying as many pokies as you want and the Dell XPS 8960 will deliver.
This computer tower is slightly higher end but leaves room for upgrades. If you’re on a low budget, Acer is a brand that serves the needs of a lot of people well. Go for the Aspire TC-1780-UA92 model.
Monitor
You can’t work well on a desktop without a decent monitor. Again, Dell is the one. It’s U2723QE is of special note and, with a USB-C display connection and, in case the Wi-Fi gets a bit sketchy, Ethernet connectivity, it’s somewhat of a “cover all bases” type of monitor. The screen is 27 inches and offers a wide range of colours and ergonomic adjustments. The monitor is especially good if you have lots of online meetings or if creating content is a part of your job (but not your whole job).
Chair
You’re going to be in front of your computer screen several hours, several days of the week, so a chair that gives you long-lasting comfort is paramount.
The Humanscale Freedom is perfect for spending long hours in the office. So is the Steelcase Series 2. Both are expensive, however, so if you’re on a lower budget, the Corsair TC100 Relaxed might be more the one.
Desk
Having a reliable desk which you’ll be comfortable working at is just as important as having a good chair. The sturdy Office Hippo Professional Cantilever is a superb all-rounder. It’s well built and the price tag won’t make you burst into tears.
The desk also comes in different sizes so there’s room for a printer or, if two of you need to work in the study at the same time, space to work side by side. You’ll also find cable management holes at the end of the desk so you don’t have to battle for space with unwieldy cables.
Printer
We may be operating in a more digital age, but there will still be times when you need to print things out. The Epsom Eco Tank ET-2850 is the one for the job. You can print both sides and in colour. You can scan documents or copy them.
The printer is wireless, you can activate it with your voice and from your phone. The printing is sharp and the device is also highly economical and sustainable because you can refill the inks sustainably and affordably.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones with A Microphone
If you’re going to take part in video calls, you’ll need a pair of noise-cancelling headphones with a microphone. You’ll be able to hear the others more clearly. They’ll be able to hear you better too. It’s possible to choose headphones that can allow you even better focus and less distraction from outside noise. The Sony WH-1000XM5 are a good choice. They’re comfortable, offer clear call quality and have a long battery life.
In this day and age, a study room is necessary so that you can work quietly and also, if you work from home, manage your work-life balance. Other items you might need in your office include a laptop stand, if you prefer working on a laptop, and a suitable mouse and mouse pad.
