Design the Ultimate Home Office to Maximize Your Productivity
For anyone who runs a home-based business, or those who work from home on occasion, having a functional home office is an absolute must. When you’re ready to create that space, it’s vital to take the time and think about your needs. These needs will be different for every business owner or home-based employee, but there are a few key considerations that anyone can use as a guide for formulating the ultimate office plan.
Location, Location, Location!
You’ve probably heard this phrase when it comes to real estate, but in this case, location is all about which room in your home is best for your office. If at all possible, try to pick a spot that’s separate from the rest of the house. An ideal location would be an extra room that can be dedicated entirely to your office, but if that isn’t an option, the second-best solution is to set up your office in a quiet area. For example, this might be a corner in a room that’s rarely used or an out-of-the-way closet.
If this move is something you’re considering, start by researching the steps it takes to purchase a house. The first step is to determine how much home you can afford. Then you can get pre-approval for a home loan, start working with a real estate agent, and search online for homes that fit your needs.
Pick the Perfect Layout
Once you have a location, the next step is to determine the best setup. Taking your time with this step is crucial. Think about what you need to accomplish in this space, then you can set up what Bob Vila calls “zones” for each task. For example, one zone may be where you do computer work, while another zone may be a spot for packing orders. Or if you’re in a field that’s creative, you may want a zone away from your desk that’s dedicated to brainstorming.
The primary piece of furniture that pulls it all together is your desk. You can find all kinds of desks, from standing work stations to desks with built-in storage. Planning out your work zones should give you a good idea of what type of desk will be best, which is why it’s so important to do some planning first.
Light the Way
After deciding on the setup, the next “must-have” is lighting. Of course, electronics, a good chair, and storage are all essential too, but those are the basics you have to have. However, many people overlook the importance of lighting in a home office. Natural light is always best, so if you have a window or you’re searching for a new home with an office space, make use of natural light as much as possible.
When it comes to artificial light, the design experts at YLighting say that having multiple sources of light is the way to go. Installing an overhead fixture will give you a good basis, but you may also want a task lamp and ambient light. Consider using LED bulbs for your home office too, because they’re eco-friendly (plus, they’ll lower your utility bills), and they also create the perfect temperature for office work.
When you’re excited to get started on your perfect home office, it may be tempting to jump right in without putting much thought into it. The problem is that lack of planning may result in a space that doesn’t truly work for you. Proper planning, from the small details like lighting to the big decisions like location, will make sure your ultimate office space is as functional as it is stylish.
Photo credit: Pexels
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