If you feel like you’re lacking inspiration at work right now, you’re not alone. Research shows that only one in five of us feels motivated to work at the moment, with low engagement being a key issue for employers right now.

We all know there are steps we can take in our careers to help us get back on track, including getting a mentor, moving onto a new project or talking to our managers about why we’re lacking confidence, but what about our working from home set-up? It probably isn’t the sole factor behind a lack of motivation, but studies have shown that carving out the right office space when working from home can make you happier and more productive.

Admittedly, the most important thing is making sure you have equipment that’s conducive to a good working environment: investing in a chair with proper back support and swapping the dining table for a desk. But, if you’re fortunate enough to have a home office, using colour in the right ways can help you feel motivated and contribute to better wellbeing.

Looking to give your office a makeover? Lucy Steele, interiors expert at Valspar Paint, reveals which paint colours will help to boost your productivity when working from home…

Peach is a great option for a home office, but so are any other shades that are part of this colour group. “Colours with long visual wavelengths, like reds and oranges, can boost your attention span and energy levels, making them perfect for study spaces or home offices,” says Steele. “It’s ideal for a home office, providing a cosy yet bright and stimulating environment.”

“A pale yellow shade is linked to positivity and mental stimulation,” explains Steele. “That’s what makes a pale yellow, such as buttermilk, the perfect choice for a home office as it will improve productivity and can be especially helpful for problem-solving tasks.”

Steele adds that this colour has the advantage of being a trending shade, too. “Pale yellow has been hugely popular in interiors so your home office will not only be stimulating, but stylish, too.”

Want to opt for a shade of blue but not sure what to choose? Indigo is your best bet. “With the pressures of life in 2025 greater than ever, it’s important to reduce stress by eliminating visual noise and surrounding yourself with calming colours,” says Steele. “Blue is the best colour for mental clarity – it can also promote feelings of calm and tranquillity, which can be beneficial in fast-paced or demanding jobs.”

Her advice for decorating? “Use layers of soft and indigo blues with a crisp white desk or pale woods and add an abundance of lush, leafy house plants to bring the outside in.”

Images: Valspar Paint