More than 33 million workers in the U.S. — including employees, contractors, and small business owners – work at home at least a portion of the time. That number has risen more than 17 percent since 2006.
Designing a home office is a big undertaking. Prior to designing a home office, we will assess how you will use it and what requirements it must fulfill. Will this be your primary workspace, or a secondary space? You may spend eight or more hours a day in the space we create, and the decisions we make today can enhance the success of your work. Here are some key considerations for a home office design.
Location
This is one of the most important considerations of home office planning. Your basement may offer a quiet, isolated space, but natural light may be limited. Do you have young children? An office off the foyer may not work. Do you meet with clients or receive frequent deliveries? An upstairs bedroom might not be best.
Organization
A functional home office needs to include space for computer(s), file storage, printer, phone and possibly a project area for non-computer activities. Having computers and peripherals within easy reach makes for a more functional workspace. One element that often gets overlooked is wiring – power and computer connections. A good home office includes plenty of electrical outlets and allows for convenient, yet tucked-away access to cords and cables.
Light
Window placement in home offices can dramatically affect your work. South-facing windows give direct light all year long, but can create glare in fall and spring. North-facing windows reduce overall natural light and demand more artificial light in the room. East and west-facing windows can brighten a room early and late in the day. We’ll consider your light sources when we design your home office to maximize natural light and minimize glare. Task lighting is also important. Consistent natural light may not always be available, so bright under-cabinet or recessed ceiling lights can improve home office lighting.
Health
If you are working from home for someone else, they are required to ensure that you’re working in a safe and comfortable environment, meeting all the federal and state requirements. If you are working on your own, it’s up to you make your workspace as comfortable as possible. We’ll make sure your new space is as ergonomically designed as it can be.
A home office can add to your productivity. Contact our design team today to start designing your new workspace.