Meet the buys that will impress on every work video call – and, better still, they start from as little as £16
We’ve all been on those Zoom calls where you can’t quite concentrate on the conversation because you’re too busy eyeing up a colleague’s backdrop and wondering where on earth they got that vase from. With hybrid working looking like it’s here to stay, it’s time to seize the day and upgrade your own office space.
Treating yourself to a few affordable accessories, such as storage to hide clutter, a bold new print to brighten up a tired wall or a leafy green plant for a touch of nature, might even help you feel more motivated while you work. And if not, at least your colleagues have something better to look at than the washing on the airer next time there’s a video meeting.
ANYDAY Bobby Desk Lamp
The sturdy little lamp is perfect for pride of place on your desk, as the opal white glass emits a warm light, which looks flattering, even on screen. You can angle the shade to direct the light where you need it the most. It comes in three colours, but we think the dusty green is the most calming for an office environment.
Pedestal Fan in Oak
We don’t know about you, but after years of heated discussions with colleagues about the office room temperature, we’re actually quite missing AC. This height-adjustable fan will bring a cooling breeze to your WFH space and look chic at the same time. With three speed settings and an oscillating function, it can help boost your concentration levels post-lunch. Better still, it comes fully assembled, so you can use it from the moment it arrives. It’s also available as a desk fan if you’re short on floor space.
Marcus Walters Venture Print
If you don’t have the luxury of a home office and you’re working from your living room or kitchen, you can still craft a Zoom-friendly corner with just one picture. Whether you like bold and colourful or simple neutral tones, prints are great way to show your personality and style. We love this abstract design by Central Saint Martins graduate Marcus Walters.
Wall-Mounted Metal Shelf Unit
Whether you want to use this metal shelf unit as a way to show off your favourite tomes, fill it with trinkets and colourful cacti or for storing all your home-office essentials, it’ll certainly make a striking backdrop. Plus, you can change the contents every few months for an easy way to refresh the look. It’s simple to mount on the wall and also comes in a larger size if you need more storage room.
The Beginner's Little Plant Gang
Plants add colour, shape and texture to your office without being too distracting for others. Plus, they enhance wellbeing and productivity, which we could all do with when we’re working alone at home. Don’t panic if you’re not particularly green fingered, as these guys only need watering every three weeks and arrive pre-potted. If plants really aren’t your thing, why not consider dried flowers?
Ceramic Vase with Handles
We can’t stress enough that it’s impossible to go wrong with a good vase. This design is just the right size to add to your desk, where you can fill it with fresh flowers each week to reward yourself for all your hard work. Alternatively, pop it on a shelf, sideboard or bookcase behind you and drop in a few stems of eucalyptus for a dramatic look and delicious scent.
Haines Bevelled Glass Frame Hanging Mirrors
Picture walls have been big in the world of interiors for eons, but you might not want work colleagues to become acquainted with Granny Jean or see snaps of you in your Ellesse jumper, circa 1984. So, may we boldly suggest a mirror wall? These super-chic, antique-style mirrors, which come as a set, have bevelled glass edges and hanging chains for easy suspension. The advantage of three small mirrors over one large is that they’ll add an additional dimension to your office without being too distracting.
ANYDAY Wire Magazine Rack/Side Table
Your office will benefit from two-in-one with this nifty buy. Stack magazines, newspapers or important work documents in the wire rack on the bottom and pop a colourful vase, frame, plant or candle on the top for a bright backdrop. It’s super slim so works well in compact spaces and comes fully assembled.
Anyday Whistler Office Chair in Mustard
This comfy chair will help you feel like royalty on your golden throne. Well, maybe not quite, but the bright yellow will definitely add a pop of colour to those dreary Monday mornings when you just can’t get started. There’s a fixed fabric seat for back support, the height is adjustable and two of the wheels are fitted with a brake so you don’t go scooting around the room mid-Zoom. If you’re after more neutral decor, it’s also available in a soft, dusty grey.
Tripod Floor Lamp
There’s something so elegant about a tripod lamp. This sleek metal design is best suited to a larger space, where it’ll instantly add a touch of drama to your backdrop. With a fabric lampshade for a warm glow, it’s ideal for illuminating your reading corner or computer set-up. Plus, you can also buy it in a brushed or matt metal finish
