Placing your desk effectively in a room can significantly impact your productivity and comfort. A key factor is leveraging natural light.
Maximize Natural Light
According to recommendations, you should place your desk as close to a natural light source as possible. This is a crucial step for creating an optimal workspace. Natural light is known to improve mood, reduce eye strain, and increase alertness compared to artificial lighting alone.
Positioning Relative to the Window
Once you've identified the best spot near a window, consider your desk's orientation. There are a couple of common approaches:
- Facing the Window: Some people prefer to face the window directly. This offers a view and maximizes direct natural light exposure. However, the reference notes that this can prove too distracting for some individuals.
- Perpendicular to the Window: If facing the window is distracting, another recommended position is to put the desk perpendicular to it. This means the desk is positioned so one side faces the window. This setup still benefits from natural light without the direct view potentially causing distractions.
Choosing Your Desk Orientation
Here's a simple breakdown of the pros and cons:
| Position | Pros | Cons | Recommendation if... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Facing the Window | Maximizes direct light; Provides a view | Can be highly distracting; Potential glare | You aren't easily distracted by outdoor activity |
| Perpendicular | Good natural light; Less distraction | May get side glare depending on window size | You find facing the window too distracting or glary |
Ultimately, the best placement often involves getting as close to a natural light source as possible and then choosing the orientation that best suits your personal preference and work style, considering the potential for distraction or glare.
Remember to also consider the flow of the room, accessibility to power outlets, and any other furniture in the space when finalizing your desk placement.
