The Home Office: 4 Tips for Effective Design

With an unprecedented number of people now working from home, the current pandemic has given a newly profound importance to the home office. Anyone accustomed to working from home will preach to you the importance of having a dedicated working space. Those new to it have had to learn this abruptly the hard way, many trying to carve out space in a bedroom or re-purposing the dining room.

If you’re one of those suddenly finding yourself in dire need of an at home office, here are a few things to think about:

1. Make sure you can close your office door.

When a client moved her office back home, we sectioned off this room to give her a dedicated working space while still allowing light through to the landing.

Working from the kitchen table is fine every now and then, but you should have a space with a door you can close. A closed door not only helps you concentrate and diminish disruptions, but it will also help when you're not working. Being able to separate work from home life is especially important when the two are taking place under the same roof. So, remember the adage: out of sight, out of mind.

2. Think about aesthetics as much as function.

Of course, you need a home office that's functional, where you can easily set up a desk, filing cabinet, bookcase, and have the internet and phone connections you need. But you also want a space that's comfortable and inviting. No one wants that feeling of dread when going to work, but especially not when work is in your own home!

While setting up your workspace in your basement may seem practical, remember that you’ll be spending a LOT of time there. Having an office with more sunlight and better temperature control may actually help you be more productive and improve your state of mind. Working with a design/build firm to create your home office is a great way to make sure you customize your space to both your needs and your style.

3. Don't forget to add your point of view to the mix.

This is your home first and foremost, not an office building filled with a maze of cubicles. Take advantage of the fact that you own it and truly make the space your own. Design an office that reflects your personality and style, and integrate some of the design elements you use elsewhere in your house. Everything from the layout to the artwork and furniture can be accommodated by the design.

4. Think about the way you work.

Do you need a comfy spot to brainstorm or the space to pace around while talking on the phone? All of this can and should be incorporated into your office design! And let’s not forget about the countless Zoom meetings so many of us have these days—think about what your backdrop would be on these calls. If your camera would be pointing to a window looking out at the pool where your kids are playing, you may want to rethink your office’s orientation.

This home office was designed to fit the homeowner’s beautiful desk and accommodate the art pieces they wanted to include.

Conclusion

Whether you’re working from home part-time or full-time, the space you dedicate as your home office is extremely important to your well-being and your productivity. Your home office needs to “work” for you! And when it comes to making a space in your home right for you, a design/build firm is your best bet to checking off all the boxes on your list. Work with a firm you trust to meet your needs, reflect your style and respect your budget.

If you have any questions, or would like to learn more about our process or offices we have designed, don’t hesitate to contact us!