The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live in and view our homes. It is no surprise that we are seeing a high demand to build and design home offices. Whether you work remotely permanently, need a space to transition to, or even virtual learning, the home office is quickly becoming one of the most important rooms in our homes. When it comes to designing a home office, there are several things to keep in mind. Firstly, what are you trying to accomplish, what is the goal of the space. Second, what do you need from a home office to boost your productivity in the workplace. From layout, to storage, to lighting, all these things factor into the way you are most inspired in your work space. Some offices may need to accommodate more than one person, with multiple people in the household working from home, or children remote learning. So what does that look like?

Meshing our lives at home and work together has been challenging, and its important to remember to try to keep your “work” space different than your “home” space. Your office should be a place where you feel comfortable, but also productive. One of the first things to consider in your plans is if you prefer built ins to a more freestanding desk space. While built ins can offer lots of storage and organization, a traditional free standing desk gives you freedom to adjust your space. There are endless options for workspace configuration, including L-shape, U-Shape, or corner desk. A U-shape desk is the most ideal for multiple parties to share. When choosing a desk that’s best for you, its important to consider what purpose it will serve. Do you have lots of paperwork and need space, or is your computer your primary purpose of a desk, in which case perhaps you prefer a minimalistic desk. All important things to consider.

It’s also important to consider the light your office space gets. Where in your house is your office and what kind of natural light does it receive. The lighting sets the mood of the room, as well as reduces eye strain from screens. Laying your light in your office can accomplish both of these. Lighting can be achieved through both natural light as well as through overhead lighting and lamps. With natural light (windows) it’s important to consider having window treatments that you can close to accommodate for glare. You can you overhead lighting to compliment the natural light your room receives. Overhead lighting can also serve as a focal point of your room, or a statement piece. Lighting is a great way to not only bring function, but also style into your office. Remember to also plan your lightbulbs accordingly, and find whether soft or white light works best for you.

One of the main requests we get from our clients designing a home office is help with organization. They need help having an organized office so that it can translate into an organized work life. Organization can be accomplished in so many ways in the office. This can be seen in things as simple as hiding cords and having charging stations, to shelving, to drawers. The possibilities when it comes to ways to organize your space for optimal organization and productivity are endless.

So you have your office, but how can you make sure you are benefiting from it. Choosing a proper chair that is easy on your back and can adjust, having a desk at the appropriate level for your body, these are all things that can keep you comfortable and boost your productivity. We have even had clients put in a fridge or coffee bar into their office.

An office space can mean different things for different people, and its important to remember to not limit yourself in the space you have available. If you’re creative, any space can successfully be turned into an office. A garage, a loft, a spare bedroom, the basement. With the right design, you can certainly make a productive workspace in your home.