The home office is the only room that must fulfill two roles simultaneously: it should be a workspace and yet look like a part of the home. If you only plan for one, you will either end up with an office in the living room or a desk where no one can work.
The Desk and Its Dimensions
A work surface of approximately 140 to 160 centimeters in width and 70 to 80 centimeters in depth provides enough space for a screen, documents, and elbows. Less depth means the monitor will be too close. The desk height should be around 72 to 75 centimeters, with the chair height adjusted so that forearms rest horizontally. A desk with drawers eliminates the need for a second cabinet in the room, which is almost always the better option in living spaces.
Glare-Free Lighting
The screen should be positioned perpendicular to the window, not in front of it and not with your back to it. Facing the window causes reflections on the screen, while having your back to it creates glare for the camera. Additionally, a table lamp should be placed on the side you are not writing on, so your hand does not cast a shadow. Ceiling light alone is insufficient for screen work.
What's Behind You
In video conferences, the background is part of your appearance. A calm surface with a single element works best: a display cabinet, a filled shelf, a wall art. An empty white wall appears cold, while a cluttered room looks restless. It is also important that the camera is at eye level, which often depends on the screen height and thus the desk height.
Acoustics in the Living Space
A workspace in an echoing living room will sound like a hall in every conference. Textiles solve this: a rug under the desk, curtains, upholstered furniture within reach. This costs nothing extra if considered during furnishing and can only be achieved later with additional measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large should a desk in a home office be?
Approximately 140 to 160 centimeters wide and 70 to 80 centimeters deep. With less depth, the screen will be too close.
How should the desk be positioned relative to the window?
Perpendicular to it. Facing the window causes reflections on the screen, while having your back to the window creates glare for the camera.
What should be in the background of a video conference?
A calm surface with a single element, such as a display cabinet, a filled shelf, or a picture. Empty walls appear cold, cluttered rooms restless.
Personal advice
We advise you personally and online. Send us your room dimensions or a photo at info@casa-luxury.de and we will put together a suitable selection for you.
Setting up a Home Office: Desk, Lighting, Video Image: Models from Our Collection
A selection from the categories discussed on this page. Each image leads to the product page.
Further in the guide: Luxury Interior Overview · Office and Law Firm · Library · Desks