A “Small Office Home Office” (SOHO) is used to describe a workspace set up in a home for business or professional use. And, it is often used to refer to the growing trend of remote workers, entrepreneurs, as well as social medial influencers who operate their business or professional activities from home. Additionally the term is associated with small businesses with limited physical space and home-based offices.
If you’re reading this article, chances are that you have a small office home office and are looking for practical small home office ideas that will enable you to avoid clutter, maximize space and maintain a tidy work environment.
In this guide, we’ll look at tips and ideas such as space saving furniture and smart storage solutions that will transform your space. These will guide you in creating your dream setup that caters to all your work from home needs. Let’s get right to it!
Multi-Functional Furniture – perfect solution for a Small Office Home Office
An efficient way to maximize space, improve productivity and create an organized workspace is through using multi-functional furniture. You gain utility without adding bulk. Here are some ways that multi-functional furniture works to benefit your office space:
Space efficiency: So furniture like foldable tables, extendable tables, and storage-integrated seating help save space. For example, a desk that doubles as a filing cabinet ensures you are using space to the maximum.
Increased flexibility: A sofa that converts into a desk or a bookshelf that changes into a work table allows for versatility. This versatility is so helpful in small spaces where you need to maximize functionality without overcrowding the space.
Better organization: Built-in storage features of multi-functional furniture (like lift-top desks or cabinets with hidden compartments) keep office supplies neatly tucked away. This reduces clutter and offers a clean, distraction free environment.
Cost-effective: Investing in one piece that serves multiple purposes reduces the need for purchasing multiple furniture items, which can save both money and space.
We’ve reviewed the Lufeiya Small L Shaped Desk with Power Outlet and Shelves, 
a top Amazon pick, which combines workspace and storage in a compact design. This desk offers built-in storage shelves, built in power strip, workspace area and side storage bag. The design is versatile offering two height options at installation as well as a left or right layouts. Additionally there are are color options of white, black and engineered wood. The desk is easy to assemble with clear and simple instructions and we love the look of the desk. This is a great desk option if you have limited space and want a variety of storage options.
Smart Storage Solutions
By using these smart storage solutions listed below, you ensure that everything has its place without overcrowding your workspace, making it easier to focus on work. Shelving units with adjustable compartments, wall-mounted organizers, and furniture with hidden storage compartments can declutter surfaces and create a more productive, distraction-free environment. Here are our top tips for smart storage:
- Utilize vertical space: Install cabinets or wall-mounted shelves to store office accessories, documents, and gadgets. Vertical storage not only maximizes space but also keeps things neat and organized.
- Add hanging organizers: Use vertical storage solutions like hanging office organizers or pegboards. These keep essentials within easy reach while saving desk space. Find ideas for vertical storage here.
- Choose compact furniture: Choose a desk with built-in drawers or under-desk storage. This ensures your items are neatly stored but always accessible.
- Go Paperless: Reduce clutter by digitizing documents. Use cloud storage to keep your files organized without taking up physical space.
- Add Drawer Organizers: Keep your drawers tidy with dividers or trays. This prevents small items from cluttering your workspace.
The key is to find solutions that help maximize limited space while keeping the workspace tidy and organized.
Optimizing Desk and Office Layout of your Small Office Home Office
Optimizing your desk and office layout in a small office home office (SOHO) can dramatically improve productivity and comfort.
- Utilize natural lighting: Place your desk near a window to access natural light. As well as reducing eye strain and creating an energizing atmosphere it also brightens the space and boosts productivity.
- Keep your desk clutter-free. At the end of each day, take a few minutes to clear it off. One great workspace organization tip is to keep clutter away. Prioritize decluttering your home office regularly by evaluating and removing non-essential items. And for your essential items, use desktop organizers to keep them tidy.
- Organize cables neatly. Use cable organizers, ties, or velcro straps to avoid tangles and keep the area tidy.
- Choose Slim-profile Furniture: Slim-profile furniture not only saves space but also contributes to a more open, functional environment. It makes it easier to move around and stay organized. Look for slim-profile desks or chairs that don’t dominate the room but still provide comfort and functionality.
- Placement: Consider placing essential items strategically. Meaning, put them within easy reach where you can improve your workflow and efficiency.
These simple changes can make a small home office feel more efficient and spacious.
Choose a smaller desk
To get started on your journey to creating a workspace that boosts productivity, we have provided you with six desk ideas you can use:
- Minimalist Floating Desk: Maximize your floor space by installing a floating desk. It’s sleek, modern, and perfect for tight areas.
Have a look at the Pmnianhua Wall Mounted Floating Desk available from Amazon. It is durable and strong, able to hold up to 88lbs of weight. Also, it is easy to install and easy to clean. The foldable design frees up your floorspace and makes the room look clean and neat. The sturdiness and ease of installation make this a popular choice with users.
- Compact Corner Workspace: Utilize unused corners by adding a compact corner desk.
It creates a cozy nook without overwhelming the room. The Bestier L Shaped Corner Desk, another Amazon favorite, fits perfectly in a corner and offers plenty of surface space without taking up much room. Available in 4 different colors and with options for left or right layout it is a versatile option for any home office. There are enclosed shelves which help keep the look clean and neat. The built in monitor stand elevates your monitor for a more ergonomic arrangement. Users report that it is easy to assemble and love the size and look of this desk. - Standing Desk Converter: If you’re limited on space but want the flexibility of a standing desk, consider a desk converter.
It sits on top of your existing desk and allows you to switch between sitting and standing throughout the workday. The SHW height adjustable standing desk riser is a highly-rated option that’s easy to install and perfect for small spaces. It comes in several color options like white, black, brown, oak and grey. Users love how easy it is to assemble, its sturdiness and value for money – never mind the added health benefits of a standing desk.
- Foldable Wall Desk: For extreme space-saving, opt for a foldable wall desk that can be tucked away when not in use.
It’s ideal for small home offices that double as other rooms. The Yusing Wall Mounted computer desk, an Amazon bestseller, folds neatly into the wall, saving space while offering functionality. Available in white and black it is easy to assemble and mount. Users love the versatility, looks and space-saving design of this product.
- Standing Desk: A standing desk helps you work comfortably, offering sitting or standing options through the work day, while maximizing space.
Amazon has the SMUG Electric standing desk which comes in a variety of sizes and colors. This means you will likely find one that is the right fit for your small office home office. It has a smooth, quiet operation and the ability to customize the height. The LED display and 3 memory present make it an efficient option for quick and precise adjustments. Users report installation is easy and all tools for construction are included. Click here for more details on this desk and other great standing desk options.
All these designs help make the most of limited space while keeping things organized.
Making the Most of Your Small Office Home Office
In a small office home office, smart choices like multifunctional furniture, optimizing your desk and layout, and selecting a smaller desk can significantly boost both productivity and comfort. By integrating slim-profile desks, decluttering cables, and utilizing clever storage solutions, you maximize the efficiency of your space without sacrificing functionality. These adjustments ensure that your home office feels spacious and organized, helping you create an environment where you can focus and work effectively.
Don’t forget the option of making your new workspace eco-friendly. We have done some of the work and put hints and tips together on how to set up your eco-friendly Home Office.
If you want to read more about working remotely and boosting productivity, you may find some helpful information in our article called “Boost Productivity as a remote worker” with 7 top tips on how to do that.
