A new year brings a natural opportunity to reset habits, refocus priorities and create a workspace that truly works for you. Whether you’re returning to the office, working from home, or juggling a hybrid setup, an organised workspace can have a surprisingly powerful impact on productivity, efficiency and even your mood.
In true top tips magazine style, we’ve pulled together practical, achievable advice to help you get your office space in shape for the year ahead. From decluttering to clever storage and must-have desk essentials, these tips are designed to help you work smarter, not harder.
Start With a Proper Clear-Out
Before you buy anything new or start rearranging, begin with a clean slate. Empty drawers, shelves and desktop surfaces and be honest about what you actually use.
Ask yourself:
- Have I used this in the last six months?
- Is this item essential to my role?
- Can this be stored digitally instead?
Recycle old paperwork, dispose of broken stationery and archive documents you don’t need daily access to. This step alone can instantly make your workspace feel calmer and more manageable.
Top tip: Keep a small tray or box nearby for items you’re unsure about. If you don’t reach for them within a month, it’s safe to let them go.
Create Zones for Efficiency
A productive workspace has clearly defined zones. Think about how you work throughout the day and organise accordingly.
Common zones include:
- Primary work zone: Keyboard, mouse, monitor and notebook within easy reach
- Reference zone: Files, folders or document stands for regular paperwork
- Storage zone: Drawers, shelving or cabinets for supplies
- Personal zone: A plant, photo or small decorative item
Zoning reduces wasted movement, keeps essentials close at hand and prevents clutter from creeping back onto your desk.
Invest in Smart Desk Storage
One of the easiest ways to stay organised is by using the right storage tools. Drawer dividers, desktop organisers and stackable trays can transform even the smallest desk.
Look for:
- Modular drawer inserts for stationery
- Vertical file holders to save space
- Cable organisers to tame messy wires
- Pen pots and small caddies for everyday items
These small products make a big difference, helping everything stay in its place while keeping your desk visually tidy.
Go Paper-Light (Not Paper-Free)
While fully paperless offices sound appealing, they’re not always realistic. Instead, aim for paper-light. Keep only what you need close by and store the rest efficiently.
Use:
- Clearly labelled folders or ring binders
- Colour coding for different projects
- Document trays for “action,” “to file” and “completed”
If you regularly print documents, place your printer within reach but off the main desk area to free up valuable workspace.
Optimise Your Digital Workspace Too
An organised desk should be matched by an organised computer. Digital clutter can be just as distracting as physical mess.
Quick wins include:
- Cleaning up your desktop and folders
- Archiving old files
- Unsubscribing from unnecessary emails
- Creating simple naming conventions for documents
Pairing good digital habits with a tidy physical workspace creates a seamless workflow that saves time every day.
Prioritise Ergonomics and Comfort
Productivity isn’t just about organisation – comfort plays a huge role. Poor posture or awkward layouts can lead to fatigue, aches and reduced focus.
Check that:
- Your monitor is at eye level
- Your chair supports your lower back
- Frequently used items are within arm’s reach
- Your keyboard and mouse are positioned comfortably
Simple additions like monitor risers, footrests or wrist supports can dramatically improve comfort and efficiency.
Use Shelving and Vertical Space
If desk space is limited, look up. Wall-mounted shelves, pegboards or bookcases provide excellent storage without crowding your workspace.
Vertical storage is ideal for:
- Reference books
- Archive boxes
- Storage bins
- Decorative items that inspire you
Keeping the desktop clear while utilising wall space creates a more open, professional feel.
Refresh Your Stationery Supplies
The start of the year is the perfect time to replenish essential office supplies. There’s nothing more frustrating than running out of pens or printer paper mid-task.
Stock up on:
- Quality pens and highlighters
- Notebooks and planners
- Printer paper and ink
- Sticky notes and labels
Having the right tools readily available keeps work flowing smoothly and eliminates unnecessary interruptions.
Add a Touch of Personality
(But Keep It Minimal)
A workspace should feel inviting, not sterile. Adding subtle personal touches can boost motivation and wellbeing.
Consider:
- A small plant for freshness
- One or two framed photos
- A calming colour palette
- A desk lamp with warm lighting
The key is balance – enough personality to feel comfortable, without overcrowding your space.
Maintain the System All Year
Organisation isn’t a one-off task. Schedule regular mini-resets – even just five minutes at the end of the day or a quick weekly tidy can prevent clutter from building up again.
Keep spare organisers, folders and labels on hand so it’s easy to adapt as your workload changes
We’re Here to Help
A well-organised office sets the tone for a productive year ahead. With the right approach, smart storage solutions and reliable office essentials, staying organised becomes second nature.
We’re always here to share practical hints, expert advice and inspiration – and of course, to supply everything you need to create a workspace that works as hard as you do. From everyday stationery to smart storage and ergonomic solutions, consider us your partner in building a more efficient, productive workplace this year.