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This story is part of our Fall Refresh Guide, a weeklong series where we’ll be looking at the products that will help us make the most of yet another season stuck at home. Think of it like Back-to-School content for adults. But during a pandemic.
Working from home sometimes sucks. What once seemed like an ideal situation — rolling out of bed and straight to “work” — has now grown tiresome, as the lines between one’s home and work life are continuously blurred to the point of being nonexistent. For many of us who still have months to endure before returning to a physical workplace, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to imagine how we can continue working productively. But as far as we’re concerned, it’s nothing a few handsome and helpful desk accessories can’t fix.
Whether you’re working from an actual desk or some sort of makeshift one, it’s time to get serious about your workspace and further define its boundaries. It’s important to create a desk situation that you’re excited to work at, so crafting this space should be a fun experience, inspiring a feeling not unlike the thrill that came from picking out new school supplies when you were a kid.
Below are 15 desk accessories that will make your WFH experience all the more enjoyable, and maybe even a little fun.
Grovemade Walnut Laptop Stand
No more hunching over your laptop — it’s time to improve your posture, and save your back, with this laptop stand from Grovemade. Not only will the stand allow for a more comfortable and ergonomic work experience, it’ll be a beautiful addition to any desk.
Smythson 2020/21 Mid-Year Panama Agenda with Pocket
Sure, you might think you’re capable of keeping track of all your important dates, meetings and deadlines in that noggin of yours, but it’s always better to be on the safe side. Never miss anything and stay on top of your work with this sophisticated agenda from Smythson, a planner fit for an adult. Besides, there are few feelings as rewarding as crossing items off your to-do list.
Courant CATCH:2
Save yourself from the trouble and headache of tangled wires and chargers, and instead invest in Courant’s multi-device wireless charging station. The minimalist design of the CATCH:2 allows it to seamlessly blend in with any workspace without taking up too much room.
Twonee Leather Laptop Mat
Protect the surface of your desk and lend a little luxury to it with a leather mat or blotter, like this one from Etsy shop Twonee. This large leather laptop mat is crafted with a full-grain leather upper and natural wool felt bottom, protecting your desk from any damage while simultaneously upgrading the look of it.
Blimp Table Light
In the event you find yourself working into the wee hours of the night, or maybe just need some extra light on an overcast day, consider the Blimp Table Light from designer Chris Grannenberg. The brightness of the lamp can be easily adjusted, allowing you to set the mood of your workspace, all while imbuing the room with a warm, welcoming glow.
Vitruvi Charcoal Stone Diffuser
Just because you’re working from home doesn’t mean your job is any less stressful. Stay zen and in your happy place with this sleek diffuser from Vitruvi. In addition to providing the relaxing experience of aromatherapy, the diffuser helps to serve as a decor piece, adding to a room and desk-space without being too distracting.
Formwork Pencil Cup
Never go through the process of searching for a pen or writing utensil again, thanks to Formwork’s Pencil Cup. The design even features a little shelf of sorts to keep other desk essentials handy, whether it be paperclips or Post-Its.
Schoolhouse Flip Clock
Clocks may seem like relics of the past, but allow this retro-inspired flip clock from Schoolhouse to motivate you to set your phone aside and stay focused on the work at hand. Now you’ll have less reason to reach for your phone, even if you were just “checking the time.” (Also, yes, we know there’s a clock on your computer too, but will you just look at this thing, please?)
The Sill Echeveria Preta
Have this little guy keep you company and bring some much needed color and life to your workspace. Even if you lack a green thumb or are just now cultivating one, the Echeverie plant is succulent-like, meaning it requires little more than sunlight to survive, decreasing your chances of killing it.
Vitra Toolbox
Desks can quickly fall into disarray, so make sure yours stays organized with this “toolbox” from Vitra. The most random of things tend to easily accumulate on one’s desk, but this organizer will give all those bits and bobs a home.
Artifact Uprising Brass & Wood Display Box
Just because you’re working from the comfort of home doesn’t mean your desk should be devoid of personality or momentos from your personal life. Bring some warmth to your workspace with these display boxes from Artifact Uprising, available in Birch or Walnut finish. You don’t even have to go the personal route but can instead put some of your favorite photos or illustrations in the boxes, anything to make the desk more representative of you.
Areaware Balancing Blocks
Getting distracted is inevitable, but at least make your mode of procrastination chic with Areaware’s Balancing Blocks. Whether you’re bored on a Zoom call or need a break from the screen, having these blocks handy will prove to be a better distraction than endlessly perusing your phone, and in turn look like little sculptures.
Craighill Desk Knife
If you really want to feel professional and like an extremely important business dude, you’re going to need a desk knife, specifically this one from Craighill. Quickly and deftly slice open any important documents or mail you receive and, if it ever comes down to it, you can use it to protect yourself (but let’s hope that never happens).
Poketo Arc Bookends
Whether you actually enjoy reading or just prefer to use books as decor, these clear acrylic bookends from Poketo will take up little room on your desk while lending it a modern feel.
Kanto Y2 Desktop Computer Speaker
For bumping that WFH playlist.
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