As workspaces are evolving in 2020, are you considering ways to create an inspiring home office? With a little planning, you can design a space to be an efficient, relaxing, and motivating space in which to spend your workday. If you’re looking for local home builders who have experience designing the perfect workspace, our tips will help you create a great home office in your home.
Choose the best location
As it’s becoming more commonplace to work from home, the likelihood you’ll spend many hours in your home office is growing. That’s why location is so important. There’s a lot to consider if you’d like to make the most of your home office workspace. For example, don’t limit yourself on space. Using a small, windowless closet or compact corner of a room may not be the best place for your home office. You’ll want to think about traffic flow and your ability to withstand distractions. Or, if you’ll have clients visiting, make sure you have a private space with ample seating. If you’re looking for local home builders to build your dream home, make sure a home office is included in the planning.
Give yourself a view
Blank walls can kill motivation. That’s why you’ll want to make sure you have a room with a view. You’re buying or building a lake home for a reason, so find a place where you can get a great view of the lake. A window’s natural light will keep your eyes fresh throughout the day. And make sure to brighten your space with plants and artwork to keep yourself invigorated. Make it a spot where you’ll thoroughly enjoy spending time working. Working with local home builders will give you the chance to plan that view into your home.
Don’t sacrifice form for function
When working from home, keep in mind that a home office is literally designed to be a designated space for running a business. It should be more than an ugly desk and an extra chair you’ve stuffed into the corner of a spare space. An office that reflects your overall design aesthetic and the comfort found in the rest of your home will become a place you’ll be energized to burn the midnight oil if necessary.
Keep in mind, too, that your desk, shelves, and storage should serve you and the needs of your work. Consider your workflow and what should be at your fingertips before you invest in furniture. Look for pieces that are both beautiful and function beyond a cubicle. Don’t be afraid to add a loveseat and comfortable chairs that match your home’s design.
Organize vertically and horizontally
Your home office may not have a ton of square footage, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be spacious. Floating shelves on the walls can get papers and office equipment off the desk, but well within reach. And vertical file folders on the desk can keep important papers within arm’s reach. You may also want to consider built-in cabinets and shelves if you’re building new construction to help make the most of your space.
Master your technology
Nothing zaps inspiration more than all of those unsightly cords that come with your office technology. To hide unsightly cords, make sure your equipment is close to outlets and easy to access. Use small tricks like encasing cords on the desk in a fabric cord cover and feeding cords into a desk grommet or cap to hide cords in or underneath the desk. Cords can also be tamed with cord winders, tubing, or a wire organizer. Wireless tools—like a keyboard or mouse—can also create a clean and comfortable workspace.
