More than 22 million Americans regularly work from home. Those who log on from an apartment know this comes with its share of perks and challenges. With so many distractions within reach—plus the proximity of neighbors—making your apartment a comfortable and productive workspace can take some creativity. Here are five work-from-home tips to help you thrive in your apartment home office.
Designate a workspace
Even if you don’t have a bedroom to spare, create a space just for work. This helps your brain get into “work mode” and filter distractions. This dedicated area can make a difference, whether it’s a small table separated by a room divider or a desk by a window. Avoid areas you already use to relax, like your bed or couch, to keep personal and professional time separate.
Embrace natural light
Natural light can boost your mood and your focus, so it’s a bonus if your workspace is near a window. If natural light is hard to come by, a daylight lamp makes a fine substitute. Or try adding decorative mirrors to reflect what light the windows do provide.
Create your own quiet
Extra noise can be a distraction, whether from neighbors, roommates or outside activity. Noise-cancelling headphones can work wonders to block noise, in turn keeping you focused during meetings or independent work time. White noise machines, ambient music, rugs, curtains, cushions or cork tiles can also help.
Stay organized
Keep clutter at bay! Use storage bins, boxes, shelves, organizers and more for a workspace that’s organized and tidy. At the end of each day, take a few moments to straighten things up and prepare your space for tomorrow. Besides promoting organization, this habit can signify the end of the day, creating a healthy mental boundary between work time and home life.
Set expectations with others
If you live with others, establishing clear boundaries is helpful to balance your personal and professional life. Provide set hours for when you’re not to be disturbed. Or create a less-invasive routine for reaching you, like first trying a text or email. Maintain your own boundaries as well—take breaks to move your body and refresh your focus. Even a five-minute breather outside the building or on a balcony can help reset a busy brain.
Home office tips for hardworking apartment dwellers
Remote work has its unique challenges, but a few creative adjustments can help make your apartment a comfortable and productive place. Your environment plays a role in your success—use these tips to help you strive for greatness in your apartment home office!
Burrows, Michael and Charlynn Burd, Mehreen S. Ismail. “New U.S. Census Bureau Data Show Detailed Characteristics of Home-Based Workers.” United States Census Bureau, 16 Jan. 2025, census.gov/library/stories/2025/01/work-from-home-inequalities.html
