These days more people are beginning to work from home. But even if you don’t commute to an office every morning, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t designate an area in your home for this purpose. In fact, you can become more productive by doing so. Whether you’re working in a spare room, small closet, underneath a stair landing or in a corner of another room, it’s easy designing for a small office.

1) Survey the area – Choose a space that has adequate power, lighting and ventilation. If needed, install electrical, phone or cable outlets. After all, the last thing you want is to lose all your work if something short circuits.

2) De-clutter – Depending on which part of your home you’ve selected for your office, there may or may not be existing furniture, shelving or other features present. Remove what’s not needed and give the space a thorough cleaning.

3) Paint – Since you’ll be spending a significant part of the day working here, you’ll want to be comfortable. Choose a color scheme that inspires and relaxes you. If the space is too small to paint, consider adding wallpaper or borders.

4) Create a floor plan – Although it’s tempting to start moving in equipment and other furniture, you’ll have a difficult time repositioning things when the room is crowded. If you’re thinking about buying new furniture, a floor plan will provide you with measurements so you won’t buy things that are too big.

5) Consolidate equipment – If you’re pressed for space or just want to simplify, opt for equipment that is multi-functional. For example, instead of using a printer, scanner and fax, buy something that allows you to do all three.

6) Tame wires – It can get messy with all the equipment, even if you do combine some things as discussed above. Take care to bundle cords and wires or just go wireless.

7) Accessorize – Hang white boards or blackboards on the wall. Add framed artwork or arrange photos on a cork-board to bring personality to your space. Rather than clutter the room with small knickknacks, choose unique focal pieces like lamps and desktop organizers. Plants are a perfect finishing touch.

The key to designing for a small office is to create an environment that is functional, but also comfortable to work in. With these suggestions, you’ll look forward to “punching” in every morning!

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Filed under: Interior Designer Fort Lauderdale Resources

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