A new year is the perfect time to reset routines, refocus priorities and create a workspace that truly supports the way you work. Whether you’re office-based, working from home or balancing a hybrid setup, an organised workspace can significantly improve productivity, efficiency and even overall wellbeing.

In true top-tips style, we’ve gathered practical, achievable advice to help you refresh your office space for the year ahead. From decluttering and smart storage to ergonomic essentials, these simple changes are designed to help you work smarter – not harder.

Start with a Proper Clear-Out

Before investing in new storage or rearranging your desk, begin with a clean slate. Empty drawers, shelves and desktop surfaces and take a moment to assess what you genuinely use.

Ask yourself:

• Have I used this in the last six months?

• Is it essential to my role?

• Could this be stored digitally instead?

Recycle outdated paperwork, dispose of broken stationery and archive documents that don’t require daily access. This step alone can instantly make your workspace feel calmer and more manageable.

Top tip: Keep a small tray for “maybe” items. If you haven’t used them within a month, it’s probably safe to let them go.

Create Work Zones for Better Efficiency

A well-organised workspace is built around clearly defined zones. Think about how you move through your day and arrange your desk accordingly.

Common zones include:

• Primary work zone: Keyboard, mouse, monitor and notebook within easy reach

• Reference zone: Files, folders or document stands for frequently used paperwork

• Storage zone: Drawers, shelving or cabinets for supplies

• Personal zone: A plant, photo or small decorative item

Zoning minimises wasted movement, keeps essentials close at hand and helps prevent clutter from creeping back.

Invest in Smart Desk Storage

The right storage tools make organisation effortless. Drawer dividers, desktop organisers and stackable trays can transform even compact workspaces.

Look for:

• Modular drawer inserts for stationery

• Vertical file holders to save desk space

• Cable organisers to manage wires

• Pen pots or small caddies for everyday items

These small additions help everything stay in its place while keeping your desk visually tidy.

Go Paper-Light (Not Paper-Free)

While paperless offices are appealing, they’re not always practical. A paper-light approach is often more realistic.

Use:

• Clearly labelled folders or ring binders

• Colour coding for projects or departments

• Document trays for “action”, “to file” and “completed” items

If you use a printer regularly, keep it nearby but off the main desk area to free up valuable workspace.

Organise Your Digital Workspace

Physical organisation works best when paired with good digital habits. A cluttered desktop or overflowing inbox can be just as distracting as a messy desk.

Quick wins include:

• Tidying your desktop and file folders

• Archiving old documents

• Unsubscribing from unnecessary emails

• Using consistent file naming conventions

A streamlined digital workspace saves time and supports a smoother workflow.

Prioritise Ergonomics and Comfort

Organisation isn’t just about tidiness – comfort matters too. Poor posture and awkward layouts can lead to fatigue and reduced focus.

Check that:

• Your monitor sits 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 ergonomic additions such as monitor risers, footrests or wrist supports can make a noticeable difference.

Make the Most of Vertical Space

If desk space is limited, look upwards. Wall-mounted shelves, pegboards and bookcases provide valuable storage without overcrowding your workspace.

Vertical storage works well for:

• Reference books

• Archive boxes

• Storage bins

• Decorative items

Keeping your desktop clear while utilising wall space creates a more open, professional environment.

Refresh Your Stationery Supplies

The start of the year is the ideal time to restock essential office supplies. Running out of basics mid-task only disrupts productivity.

Stock up on:

• Quality pens and highlighters

• Notebooks and planners

• Printer paper and ink

• Sticky notes and labels

Having the right tools close at hand keeps work flowing smoothly.

Add Personality – in Moderation

A workspace should feel welcoming, not cluttered. Thoughtful personal touches can boost motivation and wellbeing without overwhelming the space.

Consider:

• A small plant for freshness

• One or two framed photos

• A calming colour palette

• Warm, focused desk lighting

The key is balance – enough personality to feel comfortable, while maintaining a clean, professional look.

Maintain the System All Year

Organisation isn’t a one-off task. Regular mini-resets – even five minutes at the end of the day or a quick weekly tidy – help prevent clutter from building up again.

Keep spare organisers, folders and labels on hand so your workspace can adapt as your needs change.

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 advice, expert tips 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 workplace this year.