What Work-from-Home Essentials Should Be on Your Wishlist?

Forward from Andrew Edwards, co-founder of designACE 

Hey, Andrew here. Remember when working from home sounded like the ultimate dream—no commute, cozy setups, and endless coffee refills? But then reality hit, right? Suddenly, you’re dealing with a desk that’s too small, a chair that’s more medieval torture device than ergonomic, and a ‘workspace’ that doubles as your dining table. Been there, done that.

I realized quickly that to actually thrive at home, you need more than just Wi-Fi and good intentions. It’s about creating a space that keeps you comfortable, inspired, and, yes, a little excited to dive into work every day. Whether it's the perfect chair, a vision board that reminds you why you’re grinding, or those noise-cancelling headphones that shut out the chaos, let's get into the essentials you truly need to make 2025 your most productive year yet.

-ACE

Co-founder, designACE

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The shift to remote work has brought plenty of perks—flexibility, more time with family, and avoiding that dreadful commute. But let’s face it: not everyone has nailed the home office setup just yet. The right tools and environment can make or break your productivity, especially as remote work continues to be the norm. In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials that should be at the top of your wishlist if you’re serious about levelling up your work-from-home experience.

💺 Ergonomic Office Chair

Let’s start with the basics—your chair. If you’ve been making do with a dining room chair or a couch, it’s time to invest in something that’s actually designed for hours of sitting. Research consistently shows that ergonomic interventions can significantly boost productivity. For example, a white paper from Wellnomics reports that implementing ergonomic chairs and training led to a notable improvement in productivity, reducing discomfort and allowing employees to maintain focus for longer periods​. Look for chairs with lumbar support, adjustable height, and breathable materials. Trust me, your back will thank you.

🔄 Sit-Stand Desk

According to a study available on PubMed, using a sit-stand desk significantly reduced upper back and neck pain by 54% over a four-week period. Participants also reported feeling more energized and less fatigued throughout the day, which can make it easier to maintain focus and productivity. It’s not just about health benefits—it’s about maintaining steady energy and reducing the strain that prolonged sitting can cause. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank—there are plenty of affordable options out there to create a more dynamic work environment.

🎧 Noise-Canceling Headphones

Whether it’s the dog barking, kids playing, or your neighbour deciding to mow the lawn at 10 AM, distractions are everywhere. A good pair of noise-cancelling headphones can be your best friend when you need to dive into deep work. A report by The New York Times highlighted that workers using noise-cancelling headphones experienced a significant improvement in focus and reduced stress levels. Look for options that are comfortable for extended wear and have a reliable battery life.

🎨 A Vision Board or Inspiration Space

Sometimes, what you need most in your home office isn’t a gadget—it’s a reminder of your goals. Creating a vision board or inspiration space where you can see your long-term goals, motivational quotes, or milestones can keep you grounded during those tough days. Research from Psychology Today indicates that visualizing your goals can keep them top of mind, helping to boost your motivation and focus over time​. It’s a small touch that can bring a lot of clarity to your daily grind, especially when your energy starts to dip.

💡 Quality Lighting

Ever find yourself squinting at your screen as the daylight fades? Poor lighting can strain your eyes and drain your energy. A sunlight desk lamp, like the Circadian Optics or Verilux HappyLight, provides up to 10,000 lux of UV-free, full-spectrum light, simulating natural sunlight. Why does this matter? Exposure to natural light can boost mood, focus, and help regulate your sleep-wake cycle. These lamps are especially helpful during darker months, keeping energy steady and reducing fatigue. It’s not just about seeing better; it’s about feeling better while you work.

🗂️ Desk Organizers and Cable Management

A cluttered space leads to a cluttered mind, or so they say. It’s tough to stay focused when you’re constantly digging through piles of papers or untangling charging cables. Desk organizers and cable management solutions are small investments that can save you time and keep your workspace tidy. Plus, who doesn’t like the satisfaction of a perfectly organized desk?

Conclusion:

Creating a work-from-home setup that actually supports you doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s about choosing the essentials that make your daily grind a little smoother and a lot more comfortable. Whether it’s the ergonomic chair that saves your back or the vision board that keeps you motivated, these items can turn your home office into a productivity zone.

Ready to upgrade your work-from-home setup? Let’s chat about how you can make 2025 your most productive year yet. Book a 30-minute virtual coffee session with me to talk about how to optimize your space. And if you’ve got any other home office must-haves that have made a difference for you, I’d love to hear about them. Drop a comment or connect with me over on LinkedIn.

Take action today to create a workspace that works for you.