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In 2025, remote and hybrid work remain a permanent part of professional life in Canada. Recent data from Statista shows that nearly one in five employed Canadians continue to work remotely in some form, with many preferring the flexibility of a home-based setup over a traditional office environment. For condominium residents, especially in Calgary and other urban centres, this shift means rethinking how to make limited square footage support both comfort and productivity.
Designing a home office within a condo doesn’t require major renovations — just thoughtful decisions. It begins with choosing the right spot. A quiet corner with natural light, a window-facing nook, or even a repurposed storage space can be transformed into a functional workstation. The key is to define a dedicated area that helps signal the start and end of the workday. For those working with open layouts, a subtle divider, plant stand, or bookshelf can help visually separate work from home life without adding bulk.
Comfort and ergonomics are non-negotiable. Using a dining chair at a kitchen counter may have worked during early lockdowns, but long-term home work demands a more supportive setup. Invest in an adjustable chair with lumbar support, a proper-height desk or riser, and a monitor that meets your eye level. These small changes significantly reduce fatigue and strain over time.
Good lighting is another detail that plays a big role in productivity. Relying solely on overhead fixtures often creates shadows and glare. A soft, focused desk lamp or natural daylight improves visibility and even enhances your mental alertness. Adding subtle elements like greenery or textured surfaces — such as wood, cork, or fabric — can bring warmth and reduce the sterile feel of a purely functional space. The goal isn’t just efficiency – it’s comfort and energy.
In condos where space is tight, clutter can become overwhelming fast. A minimalist approach helps reduce mental distractions. Consider using wall-mounted shelves, pegboards, or rolling carts to store work supplies vertically. Use cable organizers to prevent tangles and digitalize paperwork wherever possible. Even a compact filing drawer can create a sense of order. A tidy workspace reinforces focus.
Technology matters, especially in dense urban settings. Stable Wi-Fi, quality headphones, and a good microphone aren’t luxuries — they’re tools for professional presence. If noise is an issue, acoustic panels or soft furnishings like rugs and curtains can help dampen sound. Keep power access in mind: docking stations or charging hubs can reduce the number of cables and give your devices a home base.
Equally important is knowing how to mentally step away from your workspace. In a condo, where living and working space blend, it’s easy to feel “always on.” That’s why many experts recommend establishing physical and mental boundaries. Shut down your laptop at a fixed hour. Store it in a drawer or close it off with a decorative screen. Create a short post-work ritual — a short walk, a music break, or lighting a candle — that marks the shift into personal time.
As remote work evolves, the home office has become not just a luxury, but an essential extension of one’s lifestyle. And in condominiums, thoughtful design and intentional use of space can transform even the smallest area into a high-functioning, low-stress environment. These aren’t just design choices — they’re quality of life decisions.
At UrbanTec, we support communities that reflect how people live and work today. We believe that well-managed condominium properties should empower residents to thrive in every aspect of daily life — including how they work from home. Whether you’re a board member, owner, or resident, we’re here to help you adapt your space with practical insights and long-term care.
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