Small Home Office Ideas for Working Moms

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When you work from home, having a dedicated workspace can be a game-changer.

As someone who works from home, I’ve found that having that dedicated space set up in a way that makes me happy and want to work makes me more productive.

But not everyone has space for a big office.

Sometimes, you can only spare a corner in your bedroom or living room. In fact, I’d bet that’s the reality for many people working from home.

So, how do you work with that?

Luckily, there are plenty of small home office ideas to help you create a workspace that is both functional and inspiring, no matter what space you’re working with.

Whether you’re a busy mom juggling deadlines or a tired mom squeezing in some work time after bedtime, these tips will help you create the perfect space to keep you motivated.

Find Your Space

The first thing you want to do to create a small home office space is to figure out where the best spot is. Try to look beyond just your bedroom or living room.

If you have a small, poorly used nook or closet, you could clear that out. Spaces like that can be easily transformed into the space you need.

Also, consider using furniture that can double as storage, like a desk with built-in drawers.

If you’re a mom working in a tight space, versatility will be key.

Pro Tip:

Consider a fold-down wall desk if your space is exceptionally tight. It doesn’t double as storage, but it allows you to tuck everything away when not in use. It can be an excellent solution for a home office small space.

Embrace Small Home Office Inspiration

There are so many creative people out there who put their ideas on the internet. Don’t hesitate to look to idea platforms like Pinterest and Instagram for small home office inspiration.

Try not to get too overwhelmed with all of these ideas, but you really can find whatever you’re looking for. There are so many beautiful examples of what to do with tiny spaces.

Use the examples you find to get creative with your own space.

Creative Ideas to get you started:

• Add floating shelves above your desk for extra storage.
• Use a pegboard to organize supplies and keep your workspace tidy.
• Repurpose items you own, like using mason jars for pens or a decorative paper tray.

Make It Yours

The functionality of your space is important, but so is the aesthetic. My favorite part about setting up a small home office space is that you can personalize it to suit you.

Personalizing your workspace boosts productivity and makes you want to spend time there—crucial for any working mother.

Add items that make you happy—plants, family photos in fun frames, maybe a vision board.

Fun Personalization Tips:

• Pick a color palette that energizes you. Bright colors can invigorate a tired mom, while softer tones create a calming environment.
• Incorporate a comfortable chair with a cushion or throw blanket for extra coziness.
• Use decorative storage bins to keep clutter at bay while adding a pop of style.

Lighting Matters

Good lighting makes more of a difference than you’d think in your workspace, especially for a work from home mom who gets her work time in after bedtime.

If you can, position your workspace near a window for natural light. I have seasonal affective disorder, which makes a massive difference in my productivity in the cold months.

If that isn’t possible, consider getting a nice desk lamp that provides lots of light so you’re not straining your eyes. You don’t want to come away with a headache every time you work.

Lighting Tips:

• Use LED bulbs that mimic natural daylight.
• Use string lights or fairy lights for a touch of charm.
• Consider task lighting with adjustable arms to focus light where you need it.

Optimize Your Layout

Even in a home office small space, you can maximize the functionality by being intentional with how you arrange things. Use vertical space as much as possible, and be thoughtful when organizing your essential items.

Organization Hacks:

• Install a corkboard or whiteboard on the wall to keep track of deadlines, reminders, and goals.
• Use drawer organizers to separate office supplies.
• Label everything to quickly find what you need, even during a hectic day.

Invest in Multifunctional Furniture

When space is limited, every piece of furniture needs to work harder. Look for multifunctional options that help you make the most of your small home office space.

Smart Furniture Options:

• A desk with built-in shelving for storage.
• An ottoman with hidden storage for office supplies.
• A rolling cart that can be moved out of the way when not in use.

Noise Control

As a working mom, managing distractions is crucial. If your household is like mine, there is always a certain noise level while the kids are home.

Some people can tune it out, but I don’t work well with much noise. So, I’ve had to come up with some ways to block that noise out.

Noise cancelling headphones can save your professional life if you’re in a busy household. I like to use my Loops so I can block things out, but still hear the kids if things go sideways.

Additional Tips:

• A white noise machine can drown out background sounds (though, even this is still too much noise for me!)
• Add a soft rug to absorb noise and make the area feel cozier.

Time for Tech

For a working mother, staying connected and productive often requires the right technology. Make sure your workspace is equipped with everything you need to succeed.

Tech Essentials to consider:

• A reliable laptop or desktop computer.
• A printer that doubles as a scanner.
• Cable management to keep cords tidy and prevent tripping hazards.

Incorporate Wellness

Sometimes, we have to spend a good chunk of time working in our space. This shouldn’t mean you have to sacrifice your comfort or health.

Spending hours in your workspace doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or health. Incorporating wellness elements can help any busy mom stay energized and focused.

My favorite wellness item I’ve incorporated into my workspace is my walking pad. I love getting on and walking while writing blog posts. I almost always end up walking longer than I plan to because I lose track of time while on it.

Other Wellness Tips:

• If possible, find ergonomic office furniture to support good posture.
• Take breaks to stretch or do a quick yoga pose.
• Have a water bottle with you to keep you hydrated.

Stay Inspired

Lastly, keep your workspace inspiring. A work from home mom faces unique challenges, but your workspace can constantly remind you of your goals and achievements.

One way I do this is that I keep a picture of my boys as my laptop background. It helps me remember why I’m doing this. I also keep several plants in view to keep that dopamine flowing.

You can surround yourself with motivational quotes, accomplishments, or mementos that remind you why you’re working hard. Do whatever works best for you.

Inspiration Ideas:

• Create a vision board with your professional and personal goals.
• Rotate inspirational quotes on a mini chalkboard or letter board.
• Display your kids’ artwork to remind you of your biggest fans.

Cozy Spaces Can Still Be Nice

Creating a home office in a small space doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With some creativity and thoughtful planning, you can design a functional and beautiful workspace that works for you.

As a working mom, having a dedicated space where you can focus and feel inspired is a game-changer. Remember, it’s not about how much space you have but how you use it.

So, what are you waiting for? Start implementing these small home office ideas today and watch your productivity soar. Your perfect workspace is just a few steps away, ready to help you conquer your day like the superstar working mother you are!

For mote tips on working from home, check out this post!