Irish-Made Working From Home Essentials
Main image: David Tsay
Pretty much the only part of the Covid crisis of 2020 that has been familiar to me is the concept of working from home. I’ve done it off-and-on, for about five years and I’ve learned a thing or two during that time. Mostly that tea goes cold quickly, and that a tidy and peaceful workspace is crucial for productivity.
All that being said, when I worked from home, it was during a time when I could easily pop out for lunch with a friend, or go somewhere nice in the evenings once I clocked off. I certainly wasn’t dealing with the health, financial, logistical and emotional pressures we now find ourselves under. So if you’re working from home and finding it difficult, know that that’s understandable. It’ll take a while to find a groove that fits you, your colleagues and your family.
In the meantime, retail therapy might help! I’ve picked some of my favourite home office essentials that I’m all too happy to tell you about. Each of these pieces is sold by Irish companies, most of whom are female-run. They too are dealing with the brunt of 2020; what is an incredibly challenging time for small businesses and creatives. When creating your WFH set-up, please consider investing in pieces that will help support the local economy. More than that, to appreciate the beautiful work of those who add a bit of colour and happiness to the homes we now find ourselves locked in.
Day-long tea breaks
Cold tea is its own kind of disappointment. And one you face often when trying to stay out of the kitchen while WFH. This Kinto Unitea Tea Warmer (€27.50) is a genius desk companion sold by Wicklow-based nutritional therapist and natural foods chef Niamh Browne. Niamh’s new online store, NB Goods, also offers a range of organic teas and healthy desk snacks .
Cuppa feel
Enjoy that perfectly hot cup of tea in this Rosemarie Durr Pottery blue cup (€16). The plump shape is the perfect thing to wrap your hands around on a chilly morning.
I mist you so much
Wake your face up in time for a team video call with this gentle rose and neroli Hydrating Face Mist from Oxmantown Skincare (€22). Refreshing and comforting, and great for keeping your skin moisturised during these colder months.
Get lit
Scented candles are an instant vibe-creator, and good vibes create good work. This Nude Nectar candle from Clean Slate (€28) is made from soy wax and natural ingredients, so you burn it at your desk without risk of developing a headache. If flames aren’t your thing, Nicole has also created a range of gorgeous essential oil room sprays.
Scribble away
Be seen to be very busy during Zoom calls with your manager by scribbling away on this Dreamy Oversized Deskpad from Dusty Boy (€29.95). It fits right underneath your keyboard to give you a bright and inspiring surround that’s perfect for to-do lists and jotting down quick notes.
Get organised
Embrace your inner Clea and Joanna and Home Edit your workspace. Keep any papers or electronics tucked away in this Carolyn Donnelly Mekong basket (€20) from Dunnes.
Take a beak at this
…and pop your pens in this Scandi-inspired Arran Street East beaker (€25) from the Smithfield-based ceramicists.
Cosy up
Warm your little tootsies in these Unisex Sheepskin Slippers (€58) from Scout. “Business on top, party on the bottom” is one of the biggest perks of this new Zoom call era. Embrace it.
Write on
Hey if you’re going to be your own office supplies manager, you may as well be a fancy one. How gorgeous is this Bog oak pen from Donegal Pens?
Dear diary
Whether it’s for work notes, or a personal diary to document the craziness of this time (something I did myself). This A5 tan leather notebook from Carved On (€74) is a personalised piece you’ll treasure forever.
Brighten up
Need a lamp? The iconic hand-sponged pattern of this Nicholas Mosse lamp (€160) will instantly add joy to your set-up.
Cosy folk
Add some comfort to your desk chair (or whatever you’re using as a desk chair) with this bohemian Folkster cushion (€39.95). Making your workspace as snuggly as possible will, ideally, make it easier to drag yourself out of bed once the winter sets in. Ideally.
