Setting Up a Home Office in a Small Space? Here’s How to Do It Right

Working from home sounds dreamy until you realise your “office” is a corner of the dining room, a converted cupboard, or the bit of the landing no one uses. If you’re trying to be productive in a space that’s more broom cupboard than boardroom, you’re not alone.

The good news? You can still create a smart, comfortable home office without needing a spare room or a six-figure renovation. Here’s how to make a small space work hard, without it driving you mad.

Start with the Right Desk (New or Used)

Biggest mistake we see? People squeezing in desks that are too large, too bulky, or too fiddly. The right desk makes all the difference.

• Go compact, but not cramped - Choose something that fits the space without cutting off circulation to your legs.
  
  
• Think corners and alcoves - An L-shaped or corner desk can turn a forgotten space into a tidy workstation.
  
  
• Check the height - Your arms should rest comfortably while typing, not hover like a nervous magician.
  
  

Bonus tip: A desk with built-in storage helps you avoid the dreaded chair pile.

Choose a Chair That Doesn’t Fight the Room

Yes, you need a proper office chair. No, it doesn’t have to look like it belongs on a spaceship. In smaller spaces, go for:

• Armless chairs - Easier to tuck under the desk when not in use.
  
  
• Compact bases - You don’t need wheels that could power a go-kart.
  
  
• Ergonomic support - Your back still deserves better than the dining chair.
  
  

And if your workspace doubles as the guest room? Pick something smart enough that you’re not embarrassed when visitors stay over.

Use Your Walls (They’re Wasted Otherwise)

When floor space is limited, look up.

• Floating shelves keep things tidy without crowding your desk.
  
  
• Wall organisers or noticeboards are great for keeping track of tasks without sticky notes breeding across the room.
  
  
• Power strips mounted off the ground keep cables under control and prevent that terrifying tangle behind your monitor.
  
  

A tidy wall helps keep a tidy mind. And if you’re on video calls, it makes a nicer background than the boiler cupboard.

Light It Properly (and Avoid Eye Strain)

Good lighting doesn’t just help you look human on Zoom, it also saves your eyes.

• Natural light is best, so work near a window if you can.
  
  
• Desk lamps with adjustable heads let you focus light where you need it.
  
  
• Warm bulbs are gentler on the eyes than the interrogation spotlight effect you get from ceiling strips.
  
  

Just avoid anything that casts shadows across your keyboard. You’re working, not telling ghost stories.

Don’t Skip Storage (You’ll Regret It)

Even in a small space, you need somewhere to stash paperwork, cables, pens, that half-used notebook you keep telling yourself you’ll finish - the lot.

• Mobile pedestals (that’s fancy talk for little drawer units on wheels) fit neatly under most desks.
  
  
• Slimline cupboards can double as a printer stand if you need to squeeze things in.
  
  
• Shelving units don’t have to be deep - just deep enough for folders and storage boxes.
  
  

And if your space is truly tight? Get creative. A wall-mounted organiser or even a good old-fashioned filing tray can stop your desk turning into a dumping ground.

Make It Yours

Even if it’s just a corner, make the space feel like it belongs to you.

• Add a small plant (bonus points if it’s still alive next month).
  
  
• Use colours and textures that make you feel calm and focused.
  
  
• Keep it clear of clutter - that laundry basket is not office décor.
  
  

This is your work zone. When it feels good to sit down, you’re more likely to get things done.

Need a Hand Getting Set Up?

At Lifestyle Office Furniture, we stock all sorts of desks, chairs and smart storage for home offices - from compact second-hand desks to filing units that actually fit. And if you’re not sure what will work in your space, just ask. We’re happy to talk through options, recommend practical layouts, and deliver straight to your door.

We are based in Barnstaple and deliver across Devon and the South West. Browse our home office range or get in touch for friendly advice.