How to Set Up a Zoom-Ready Living Space
Do you remember when “home, sweet home” was just that—home? A place we returned to at the end of a long workday, where we kicked up our feet and took refuge from the world? We do too.
Now, our homes are also our schools, offices and gyms. Instead of gathering with our classmates in the library, brainstorming with our co-workers around a conference-room table or sinking our heels into Downward Dog in a spacious yoga studio, we’re doing it all—you guessed it—at home.
We know. Hanging out at home 24/7 isn’t ideal. But while we’re hunkered down, doing our part to keep our communities and each other safe, we’re grateful for technologies like Zoom that keep us connected to the outside world. So, as long as our reality is virtual, why not embrace it? Here are some tips to help make your home a comfy, stylish and practical space for those video calls, team meetings, workout classes and more.
Do a Background Check
When it comes to work calls, your attire isn’t the only thing that should appear professional. Your background should too. A neatly organized bookshelf, a nook with a few interesting pieces of art or a clean, well-styled room all make for an attractive, distraction-free backdrop. Don’t have a home library or a magazine-worthy office? Fake it. There are plenty of places online to download backdrops ranging from bookshelves to pretty apartments with million-dollar views.
Get Quiet
Whatever the reason for your Zoom session, a quiet, private space—even one with a door that locks—will ensure it goes uninterrupted. This one seems like a no-brainer, but remember this guy? Cute kids, for sure, but don’t be him.
Stay Connected
A weak WiFi signal can ruin even the simplest of mobile or video interactions. Even worse? Your screen freezing up during a big presentation, or keeping the class waiting while you reboot. So, find a spot that’s within range of your router to ensure a consistently strong signal. If you have to retreat to the far reaches of your space to find privacy, consider buying a wireless range extender to prevent meeting mishaps.
Make Space
Your living room might not afford the same space for walking lunges and burpees that your gym does, but you can still get in a good workout. The key? Give yourself plenty of space, and get potential trip hazards out of the way. Choose a room with a rug that’s easy to roll up and small furnishings that you can push aside. A helpful tip from Today: Stream your class to a TV instead of your laptop. You’ll be able to see better, and you might even feel like you’re striking a Tree Pose in your local yoga studio.
Pick Out Plants
Having plants around can help make you feel calm and connected to nature—and give classmates, colleagues or your happy hour crew on the other end of the line something pleasant to look at. Don’t have a green thumb? Don’t worry. Organizing guru Erin Condren tells USA Today that it’s totally okay to fill up your space with fakes. Arrange a few stylish succulents on your bookshelf or desk, and place graceful, textured plants—think ferns, fig trees and tall grasses—in your designated workout space for a truly focused and refreshing sweat session.
The BRIGS team