If you’re renting a studio apartment, you may be wondering if working from home is an option. Technically, you can work from anywhere, including your bed if you want to. But creating a workspace that is conducive to productivity is of utmost importance.
Renting a studio apartment is a great way of saving money while getting everything you need. Associated expenses like utilities are also going to be affordable. The same is true for insurance, although the amount of renters insurance you need depends on what you own rather than the space you store it in. Still, the fact that you’re not paying homeowners insurance for the place itself means you’ll only pay around $15 a month.
But if you need to make money from home, trying to save money by renting a studio apartment can backfire. You need to get stuff done in this small space every day.
Fortunately, ways exist to create a workspace in your studio apartment, even if you are severely short on space.
Demarcate your work zone
It is very difficult to get a studio apartment to feel like anything but a bedroom. After all, your bed is taking up a significant amount of space. However, you can actually do so without too much work.
Compartmentalization is crucial when working from home. You can achieve a degree of it by demarcating a work zone with curtains or dividers so that it doesn’t feel like you’re working in the same room as your bed. You might feel constrained by the space, but at least you will not be constantly tempted by the sight of your bed.
This also ensures that you can get to work without having to worry about cleaning up your room. Deal with this later as you get going early in your separate space.
Get a desk with storage
Having a space to sit and work is not the only requirement for a home office. You also need space to keep files, stationery, and other work equipment. Ideally, keep these separate from the rest of your possessions. For this reason, a desk with storage is a good investment. You can keep everything you need in drawers so that your workspace and your rest space don’t have to collide.
Get in the closet
If you’re not happy with the limited space you have, you can try and create more space with a clever hack. If your closet is not jam-packed with clothes, you can use it as a space for your desk. All you need is a horizontal surface to turn your closet into an office. This way, your office becomes a more separate space than you might have imagined possible.
It is easier to find space for your clothes than for an office. You can hang them on a standing rack or use portable shelving to stack them up. You may even find a way to easily remove your clothes from your closet when it is time for work and move them back when you are done for the day.
Use the kitchen
Some people need more office space than others. A desk in a closet might not be enough for you. If this is the case, you can turn your kitchen into an office. As with any workspace, demarcate it with dividers. So that you’re not constantly tempted by the fridge or pantry cupboard. This requires a bit more discipline. But if you’re committed to working from home, you can be successful.
Extra tips
No matter what you do, your studio apartment will always be a cramped space. You, therefore, need to create a sense of space for yourself to avoid claustrophobia. When you take breaks, go for a walk rather than sitting inside on your phone. Schedule gym sessions for the middle of the day if possible. Get away from your apartment as much as you can so that it never starts feeling like a prison.
Even the biggest space can feel confining if you never leave. Spending time outside, whether on a walk or run or any other activity can really make a major difference.
You don’t need a huge space to work from home. If you’re committed and disciplined, you can make do with and create a workspace in your studio apartment.
