How to Create a Home Office
Did the pandemic take you from a corporate office surrounded by coworkers to working out of the comfort of your home? Did your children take over your current workspace for homeschooling? Or is sharing an office with your partner becoming less enticing by the day? Luckily, I’m here to provide you with a solution for all different spaces & styles of work!
#1 Minimalistic
Does your job require a laptop and a simple surface to work on? If so, there’s no need to spend money and time on any unnecessary elements. All you’ll need to do is purchase or utilize an existing desk, table or bureau, as well as find a versatile chair that works with the surrounding fixtures and furnishings. This will allow your desk to blend with the room, rather than stand out. Find a spacious hallway or living area with good lighting and a bit of privacy to create that functional yet discreet work space.
#2 Space Saving
Are you maximizing your space to its fullest potential? Take a look around and recognize any “dead space” such as corners and nooks, then use those effectively and to your advantage. If you’re having difficulty locating space, maybe it’s time to reevaluate your floor plan to create it! You can make almost any room multifunctional, as long as you’re creating separate spaces for each purpose, yet still relating styles and elements so they feel connected.
#3 Closet Office “Cloffice”
Do you have a dreamy walk-in closet, or any closet space at all? The new and trendy “cloffice” concept might be perfect for you! As I stated earlier, you can pretty much make any space multifunctional. So, why not combine your closet and your office? Throw in a desk and chair, then add as much storage as you can to maximize the space. You don’t have to sacrifice one function for another. If you don’t have a walk-in closet, create a built-in style desk. Take down the doors and consider replacing them with privacy curtains for a more spacious feeling, then add your desk with as much shelving, storage and drawers as you can fit. Enhance the lighting, add white boards, stationery and any other personal touches!
#4 Loft Office “Loffice”
Have a loft and not sure how to utilize the space? This might be an ideal spot to transform into your home office. I can guarantee you won’t be neglecting this space for much longer! Build into nooks and work with the angled ceilings by adding built-in storage. Situate yourself by a window if there is one, this will bring some life into the space and subsequently help increase your overall productivity. If you happen to have the space, go ahead and make it multipurpose by adding a cozy living area, guest suite or bathroom. Make it both a relaxing escape for yourself, and a quiet work environment away from any distractions.
#5 Shed Office
Struggling with finding privacy and the self-discipline that comes with working from home? Maybe you miss your morning commute? Why not opt for the shed office? Chances are most items in your shed can find storage elsewhere, which will give you the space needed to transform it into your office. Depending on the current state of your shed, this transformation might take a bit of time, money and dedication. You’ll likely need to add some insulation, a form of heating/cooling, windows for natural light, electricity outlets, lighting, flooring and drywall/paint. Once your mini-renovation is complete, you can then add your desk, chair and whatever storage space you may require. Next, you want to assure it feels as comfortable as possible by adding cozy touches and soft elements such as, rugs, chairs and pillows. Then, go ahead and add your personal touches such as, art and accessories to evoke whatever mood you desire within your new office space!
#6 Bedroom Office
If your options are limited to your bedroom, yet you find yourself feeling less than motivated to be productive, then there are still options for you! Try an outward facing desk that looks towards a wall, or preferably a window. This will allow the space to be more focus oriented and feel less like you’re working where you sleep. Try to separate the bedroom area from your office space the best that you can. You can do so by using room dividers, or even rugs to anchor and clearly separate the two areas. Be sure to use versatile items to tie in the decor, this will allow your bedroom to still feel like a peaceful retreat opposed to a stressful work environment. You can still purchase practical and functional furniture without sacrificing on trendy colours and styles. If you’re really tight for space, consider a Murphy bed and ensure that you’re using the correct furniture size and scale with adequate storage for both functions!
#7 Basement Office
Are you finding your current office set-up crammed and feel a total lack of privacy? Maybe you have space in your basement that you could better utilize! Why not consider setting up down there? Your basement shouldn’t feel like a dungeon and if it does, then this is how you can amp it up! Choose bright paint colours and assure that you’re allowing in as much natural light as possible. This will help transform the space into a much more livable environment. Make sure you have functional lighting and are making the most of your space. Add cozy touches to warm it up and keep in mind that mirrors reflect light, which may be a good option for you if you’re still finding the space dark and cool. Locate yourself near a window and connect elements to make the space multi-functioning. Maximize your storage to reduce clutter and make the space feel like your own. Oh, and don’t forget a dehumidifier!
So, whether your interior space or budget is big or small - there are home office solutions for you! There are countless office styles and layouts suitable for all different types of work and if you don’t feel like any of these are for you, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Staged by Design. We offer e-design, floor planning, colour consulting, furniture selection and even home organization! Plus, did you know that home offices add value to your property? If you’re thinking of selling, we can certainly help arrange your interiors to maximize your equity and get the most out of your sale. Contact us for or a quote or to learn more!