Summer’s winding down. Mornings feel crisp, evenings come sooner, kids are back at school, and many of us are settling into our home offices again. It’s the right moment to “layer” your workspace the way you layer your clothes—small, thoughtful upgrades that make long days more comfortable, focused, and calm. Think warmth and lighting, smarter ergonomics for longer stretches at the desk, and simple routines that keep energy steady when the rain starts tapping the window.
For this guide, we asked our Remotive community and team members what actually moves the needle—what helps them hit deep focus, stay healthy, and feel good in their space. The result is a practical, budget-friendly list of 10 essentials: a mix of comfort boosters, productivity helpers, and tiny luxuries that make work-from-home even more desirable.
- A great ergonomic chair
Obvious, yes, but anyone who’s sat in a bad chair knows this is non-negotiable. Ergonomic chairs used to be a splurge, but budget brands have made them more accessible. Look for adjustable height, lumbar support, and armrests that let your shoulders relax. We love these and these. - Desk
Your desk should sit at the right height, with enough space for all your tools—screens, keyboard, speakers, even the cat – we don’t judge. 🙂 Keep elbows at a right angle, monitor at arm’s length, and tilt to reduce glare. To keep yourself active, rotate short standing sessions. How cool is this desk for that purpose?
- Calendar/planner
Digital tools are great, but a physical planner or wall calendar gives your office that “work” feel. It keeps time visible and adds a decorative touch. A quick Friday review in ink—just two lines—is enough to close the week and give Monday a head start. We love the simple designs Muji and Sterling Ink deliver. - Good lighting
Finding balance isn’t always easy—too bright strains, too dim relaxes you into nap mode. Use a desk lamp from the side to avoid glare, and add a soft backlight behind your monitor. BenQ lamps caught our attention for both design and features. - Water bottle
Coffee and tea need limits, but water is always a win and a favorite bottle makes hydration more enjoyable. Pair it with snacks that won’t spike then crash: fruit and nuts, yogurt and berries, or crackers and cheese. Love Chilly’s for the functionality and design. - Silence (good headphones)
Many workers named silence as a most wanted home-office perk. You can’t buy quiet, but you can soften noise with quality headphones. They improve calls, shut out distractions, and back up focus sessions with music. When they’re coming in these colors, they add to the office beauty, too.
- Microphone
Alongside headphones, a good mic makes sure people hear you clearly. This pocket size wireless companion, placed a hand’s breadth from your mouth, cuts echo and fuzz so people hear you, not your room. - Scented candle
Scents bring the outdoors in—ocean breeze, forest rain, or crisp apple. Keep a few candles to match weather & your mood. This one is a splurge, but swears to bring the summer right into your office. So many great ones to be found here as well. - Plants
Plants instantly warm up a workspace. They make a room feel alive and welcoming, while boosting mood and freshness. Choose species that fit your light and space, and scatter them across shelves, tables, or floors. Check this page for inspiration.
- Pet (animal rescue)
Many remote workers say pets are their favorite office perk. If the timing is right, adopting can make your workspace someone else’s forever home. Think through routines, quiet times for calls, and vet costs to keep the commitment sustainable.
Final note: pick one comfort upgrade and one mood cue to start. Tweak a lamp, pour some water, light a citrus candle, and let cozy and productive work together.
And whether you’re already working remotely or still searching, don’t miss our newsletter for updates—or browse remote jobs today!
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