When the temperature drops and the sun starts to set before the workday is done, motivation is hard to come by—we know the feeling. As the day comes to a close, you start to daydream about the scrumptious, warm dinner you’ll cook when you’re off the clock, or maybe you imagine yourself wrapped up in a throw with a cup of tea and a good book. Either way, you likely want to leave the office and get home (or leave your WFH setup behind), but you shouldn’t slam the laptop shut so fast.
While we can’t shorten your workday, we can help out with making your office space into a cozy autumnal getaway that you won’t want to leave at precisely 4:59. Fall is the perfect time to make your whole home cozy, and your office shouldn’t be an exception. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your barren cubicle at the office, think your desk could use a few more personal touches, or want to give your work-from-home space a bit more thought, here are some tried-and-true tips for creating a comforting, peaceful workplace—even if the work itself is far from calm.
Lose the Ring Light
Even though the pandemic taught us the importance of quality lighting for Zoom calls, it might be time to get rid of the ring light and swap it for something more on the ambient side. Ditch the harsh, blue-toned lighting and add small, warm-toned light fixtures throughout your space.
Fairy lights are a classic choice, but you can get creative with integrating unique lighting. Mix and match candles, small desk lamps, floor lamps, and LED strip lights to create an atmospheric work setup. You can still curate a beautiful Zoom backdrop without overdoing the shine! If you’re working in an office and have limited control over what you include, start simple; even a desk lamp with an out-of-the-ordinary shape can add to a small space.
Experiment with Scents
Autumn is the perfect time to light candles and enjoy your favorite fall scents. Whether you’re into sweet scents and reach for the pumpkin spice or sugar cookie smells or are into the classics and tend to choose a lavender or vanilla fragrance, candles instantly set the mood.
There are so many fall-scented candles to sample, as many brands put out comforting classics around autumn and the holidays each year. Try out a few of your favorite scents and see if they affect your work—some are said to make you more relaxed, which contributes to a productive, calming environment.
Add Some Cozy Pillows and Throws
Just because you’re hard at work doesn’t mean you can’t be comfortable. If you’re feeling a little chilly or want to feel like you’re in the middle of a warm hug while typing away, bringing some soft blankets and pillows into the office can introduce a whole new level of warmth and hominess to your desk-chair combo.
When working from home, you have a bit more leeway to dress cozy and truly wrap up, but you’ll be able to cozy up in an office (in moderation) as well. Just don’t go overboard with this one; one too many throws and you might find yourself dozing off.
Surround Yourself with Warmth
Fall is all about warm, inviting color schemes, especially deep reds, purples, greens, and earth tones. Bring this aesthetic to your office space for a homey refuge that feels just right. With small pieces of art or personal mementos and color-coordinated stationery, even the smallest pops of autumnal color will make a difference in your space. If you’re feeling all-in for fall, don’t shy away from a bit of autumnal decor—whether you’re loving small pumpkins or gourds for your desktop or want to add a small bowl for sharing Christmas candy with your co-workers, now’s the time.
Beyond the blankets and color patterns, there are other ways to keep yourself warm and snug while chipping away at your to-do list. If your office space runs cold, invest in a small space heater or microwaveable heating pad to keep at your desk—a quick run to the break room will have you feeling toasty in no time.
Create a Mini Drink Station
If your caffeine cravings skyrocket when the weather starts to get cold, you’re not alone—and while in work mode, there’s nothing better than a steaming cup of coffee or tea to keep you company. For a cozy workplace like no other, consider creating a bite-sized coffee station right at your desk.
An electric kettle and a French press make that perfect brew accessible from just about anywhere, and keeping syrups and sweeteners at hand will make you feel like you’ve got a coffee shop all to yourself. You’ll thank yourself the next time snow’s coming down and you’re helping yourself to a cozy cup of tea without leaving your desk.