Whether you’re working from home or in a traditional office, your workspace can have a major effect on your creativity, efficiency, and mood. In addition to those personal elements, your office space tells others how you view yourself, your clients, and your business. Whether you’re decorating an office space for the first time or renovating an existing office, here are some things to consider in regards to design.

• Function. Your office’s layout and furniture choices are a combination of use, room size and maneuverability. For example, a small, windowless office can feel cluttered and claustrophobic if there’s too much furniture and document storage. An office where you’re the only occupant doesn’t place as much importance on traffic flow as one where you’re always holding meetings and seeing clients. If you’re working solo, you’ll want your office equipment within easy reach; but if you’re not alone, you’ll want them out of the way.
• Color. Color has a great effect on your state of mind while you’re at work, but it also affects your clients while they’re present. The expert Fayetteville commercial painters recommend using cool hues such as lavenders, greens and blues promote a tranquil air, while hot colors like yellow, orange and red encourage excitement.
• Layout. According to the ancient practice of Feng Shui, the placement of office furniture is especially important in helping your productivity. Furniture with rounded corners allows for more free energy flow, and adding plants can help you create a connection with nature. In Feng Shui, clutter is frowned upon, so put your stuff out of sight and out of mind by hiring document storage services, if necessary.
• Lights. Use natural lighting wherever possible, but don’t put your desk or table in front of the windows getting the most of the midday sun. If you need artificial lighting, just don’t choose fluorescent bulbs; they put out a lot of glare and they also distort colors (including your complexion). For a more relaxed and inviting atmosphere, consider buying lamps with incandescent bulbs.
• Art. Art is an easy way to give your office some added personality. Accessorize it with sculptures, paintings and photos that have significance to you, but don’t go overboard with the knick-knacks. After all, it’s your office, not your living room—even though you may feel as if you spend more time at work than at home. Your décor should be in line with the image of professionalism you want to project.
• Window Décor. For a more professional look, use shutters or mini blinds as opposed to curtains. Shutters and blinds allow you to set the amount of light let into the room, and they also conceal any not-so-nice views you have (such as the side of a building or the scenic parking lot).

Your office may be your home away from home, or it may be IN your home. Regardless of its location, your office should be decorated carefully and as professionally as possible. If you’re not sure of how to proceed, you should enlist the services of a professional decorator. Your office is a reflection of you and your company—make sure it’s a good one.