Recently there has been a surge in the number of people working from home. Greater demand for flexible working combined with a change in available jobs means that the traditional nine-to-five office job is no longer the only option. The internet greatly facilitates this and employees can easily work remotely from home these days.
So if you are one of the many people who have taken to home working, how exactly can you create the perfect home office space?
Use existing space
In order to create a successful work/life balance, it is essential for home-workers to designate a specific workspace. Not only will this ensure you can work free of distractions but it means all the essential equipment is to hand in and important paperwork can be safely stored away. When you are employed at home it can be tempting to work all hours, but having a specific office area helps to create a clear distinction between work time and family or leisure time.
If space is at a premium, you may need to work in your kitchen or dining room but ensure that you at least have adequate storage to keep your work tidy. Unused space under the stairs or in the hall can be transformed into a little work cubby. Alternatively, a spare bedroom can double up as a home office. Furnish this mini desk, chair and plenty of shelving for storing files. Installing a sofa bed will ensure that you can still accommodate guests when necessary.
If possible, a specially-designed home office is a wise investment and a loft conversion can be a very practical solution. Specialist firms take care of all the practicalities such as putting in the correct insulation and providing a power supply. There may also be a lot of wasted space under the eaves that can be made into storage cupboards, while a built-in desk will help you to get the most from your space. If you later decide to sell your home, not only will a conversion have added to the value of your house as it can be re-purposed as an extra bedroom, but the additional room can be a strong selling point.
If you have a basement or cellar this could also be refitted to create a private workspace. Garden offices are also a great option and are particularly suited to those who may have client meetings that are better conducted out of the house.
Other advantages
Of course, adding an extra room to your home doesn’t just have to be for work. There are a whole host of clever loft conversion ideas that help you make the most of your available space. A conversion makes a great extra bedroom with the option to include an en-suite bathroom. If you have a hobby that takes up a bit of room, using the loft or basement means you can enjoy your pastime in peace without disturbing the rest of the household. Alternatively, you could furnish the space with some comfortable beanbags, a TV, fridge and entertainment console to create a great den for teenagers to entertain. Adding in a sofa bed will ensure you are well prepared to cater for any last-minute sleepover requests.
Whether you repurpose an existing space or create a brand new one, having a clearly defined office space will help you to effectively balance your work and home life.
