How to Set Up a Remote Work Workspace in a Small Apartment

Updated on : 07 Oct 2024

Remote employment is one of the few changes that have become entrenched in today’s world of work for numerous employees. Nevertheless, it often becomes a challenge to create an environment that provides the comforts of a productive office in a small apartment room.

The beauty of working from home means that while you want proper office space, you don't want it to take up too much of your living area. However, with some time and thought, you can achieve the right balance and make wonderful use of your limited space.

This guide will illustrate how to create a remote workspace in a small apartment that feels comfortable yet professional, all while maintaining a beautiful interior.

1. Choose the Right Spot

How to Set Up a Remote Work Workspace in a Small Apartment

Selecting the ideal location is the first step in setting up your remote workspace. In a small apartment, you may not have a dedicated room for an office, but there are ways to get creative with the available space:

Corner of a Room: A small desk in the corner of your living room, bedroom, or even the hallway can work well.
Unused Spaces: Look for underutilized areas such as the space beneath a staircase or a window nook. Even closet spaces (often called “cloffices”) can be transformed into compact work areas.
Natural Light: If possible, choose a spot near a window to get natural light, which can improve mood, energy levels, and focus.

The key is to find a space where you can work without frequent distractions while still maintaining separation between your personal and professional life.

2. Invest in Multipurpose Furniture

When space is tight, your furniture needs to do double duty. Look for pieces that are both functional and stylish:

Foldable Desks: These desks can be folded up when not in use, making them perfect for a small apartment where every inch counts.
Wall-Mounted Desks: A wall-mounted desk takes up less space and can help keep your workspace clutter-free. Some models also include shelves for storage, adding vertical storage options.
Storage-Friendly Furniture: Consider using furniture with built-in storage, like ottomans or storage benches. This helps you keep your remote workspace neat and organized without adding extra bulk to your apartment.
Dual-Purpose Spaces: If you don't have room for a separate office, try using your dining table as a desk during work hours. A rolling cart for your work essentials can make transitioning from "work mode" to "home mode" smoother.

3. Maximize Vertical Space

When floor space is limited, turn your attention upward. Maximize vertical space with:

Floating Shelves: Install floating shelves above your desk to store office supplies, books, or décor. They provide storage for your remote workspace without eating up valuable floor space.
Pegboards: A pegboard can be used to hang office supplies, such as notepads, headphones, and even small plants to keep your desk area tidy.
Tall Bookshelves: Opt for narrow but tall bookshelves or cabinets to store documents, equipment, and personal items, keeping clutter off your desk.

By using your walls creatively, you can keep your workspace organized and free of distractions, even in a small apartment.

4. Get the Right Equipment for Comfort

Your remote workspace should be comfortable enough for you to spend long hours without strain. That means investing in ergonomic equipment that fits your space:

Ergonomic Chair: A supportive, ergonomic chair is a must for any workspace. If a full office chair feels too bulky, look for a chair with a slim profile or even a kneeling chair, which takes up less room but still provides comfort.
Laptop Stand and External Keyboard: If you use a laptop, a stand can help raise the screen to eye level, preventing neck strain. Pair it with an external keyboard and mouse for better ergonomics.
Footrest: A small, under-the-desk footrest can improve posture and prevent fatigue, especially if your chair doesn’t offer much support.
Desk Lamp: A good desk lamp is essential, particularly if your workspace doesn’t get much natural light. Look for adjustable lamps that allow you to direct light where needed.

Even in a small apartment, prioritizing comfort and ergonomics is essential for your long-term productivity and well-being.

5. Embrace Minimalism

Less is more when it comes to small spaces. A minimalist workspace can help you stay focused and reduce mental clutter:

Keep It Clutter-Free: Limit the items on your desk to essentials like your computer, a notepad, and perhaps a few personal touches, like a small plant or a family photo. Avoid piling up papers or unnecessary office supplies.
Go Paperless: Reduce the need for physical storage by going digital. Use cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox for important documents and scan any paperwork you need to keep.
Cable Management: Messy cables can quickly make a small space feel cluttered. Use cable ties or clips to organize wires and keep them out of sight.

By keeping your workspace clean and minimal, you’ll find it easier to focus and remain productive.

6. Add Personal Touches for Inspiration

Although minimalism is important, you don’t want your remote workspace to feel sterile. Add a few personal touches to create a space that inspires you:

Plants: Small indoor plants like succulents or desk plants can bring a sense of calm to your workspace and even help improve air quality.
Art: Hang a small piece of art or a motivational quote above your desk to keep your spirits up during long workdays.
Color Scheme: Stick to a calming color palette that reflects your personality. Light, neutral tones like white, beige, or soft blues can make your space feel larger and more inviting.

A few well-chosen items can make your small workspace feel more personalized and comfortable without adding too much clutter.

7. Manage Distractions Effectively

One of the biggest challenges of working in a small apartment is the potential for distractions. Here’s how to keep distractions at bay:

Noise-Canceling Headphones: If your apartment is noisy, noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver. They help block out distractions and keep you focused on your work.
Work Boundaries: Create boundaries with roommates or family members to minimize interruptions during work hours. Clear communication about your work schedule can help everyone respect your time.
Time Blocking: Try time blocking to schedule your day in focused intervals. It helps keep you on task and makes it easier to separate work time from personal time in a small living space.

By managing distractions effectively, you can create a productive environment even in the midst of a busy household or small apartment.

8. Incorporate Movement Into Your Day

One downside of working from a small apartment is the limited space for movement. However, it’s important to incorporate regular movement into your day:

Standing Desk Converter: A standing desk converter allows you to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day, which can improve posture and reduce fatigue.
Stretching and Exercise: Take regular breaks to stretch or do simple exercises, even if it’s just walking around your apartment. This helps combat the effects of sitting for long periods.
Desk Exercises: Look into desk-friendly exercises or yoga routines that you can do in a small space to keep your energy levels up.

Movement is essential for maintaining physical and mental health, especially when working in a compact space.

9. Lighting and Ambiance Matter

Lighting is an important part of designing a productive workplace that people look forward to going to every day. The right ambiance can set the tone for a productive day:

Natural Light: If possible, work with your back toward the window, as the natural light from windows promotes concentration and positive emotions.
Warm Lighting: Avoid using the harsh white light of old fluorescent bulbs, which can strain your eyes. Instead, use warm-toned lighting to reduce eye fatigue, which can become an issue in such environments.
Lighting for Video Calls: I have attended many meetings where I realized that my workspace was poorly illuminated or lacked adequate lighting. You can use a ring light or desk lamp to brighten your face evenly so you look professional during meetings.

Lighting is not just a design element; it can also impact your energy levels and work productivity.

10. Be Adaptive and Flexible

Lastly, keep in mind that your remote workspace doesn’t need to be set in stone. Stay flexible and open to adapting your setup as your needs evolve:

Rearrange as Needed: You don’t have to stick with a particular arrangement of desks, chairs, or other furniture. Change things up as needed. As you practice, you'll likely notice improvements over time.
Update Equipment: When possible, invest in higher-quality chairs, tables, or shelves that can enhance your workspace.
Work-Life Balance: Ensure that your workspace allows for a proper balance between work and personal life. If you no longer need a lengthy process to transition from work to home, make small adjustments, like moving your workstation near a window or avoiding work-related equipment outside of working hours.

One advantage of a work-from-home environment is the ability to create the space that best suits your needs.

Final Thoughts

It is entirely possible to set up a comfortable and effective remote working space in a small apartment, but it requires creativity and attention to detail. As already mentioned, with suitable furniture and equipment, combined with the right attitude, it is possible to transform any corner of the apartment into a professional workspace that enhances productivity while blending with your home lifestyle. Ensure you prioritize comfort, manage distractions, and always take the time to personalize your workspace.