Home offices became one of the most important rooms of the house during the pandemic. Although many companies have called their workers back into the office on a part-time basis, hybrid positions are still common. Many people work fully from home, and an even larger percentage of people work part-time from home.
Having the right work space for your job is important. A good home office will be comfortable as well as functional, with space for your work items as well as personal items. If you're working out of an uncomfortable nook in your home or even doing your work from the dining room table, then there are many things you can do to make your work day more productive and your work time more enjoyable.
Making changes like carving out a dedicated work space, creating a peaceful work environment and installing high-tech features can help make your workday more pleasant and enjoyable. Of course, it's also important to hire the right Connecticut contractor for the job. Below are some features to look for in your home office.
Built-In Cabinetry and Shelving
The right furniture is essential for your home office. Built-in furnishings like cabinetry and even a built-in desk provide luxury as well as functionality to give you the space you need to keep your files organized.
Even if you're not planning to install built-in furniture, it's important to ensure the furniture you purchase will fit properly when the remodel is done. Consider shopping for your desk, tables and sofas in advance, so you can tell your contractor how much space is required before the remodel begins.
Ample Light Sources
It's important to have a variety of light sources when you're at work. Good light sources make it easier to stay productive and alert, even when you're working on repetitive or less enjoyable tasks. Natural lighting is important for your personal health and can improve your mood. A big window can help with this, as can the right window treatments.
Recessed lighting is important for maintaining a cheerful and well-lit office environment when the sun goes down, while task lighting can help with focused activities. Finally, consider ambiance as you're selecting your office lighting. Lamps - both floor lamps and table lamps - can provide the warm, cozy feeling that makes working from home so pleasurable.
Space for Books and Personal Items
Personalize your space with books, art and personal items. Leave some surfaces (including shelves and table tops) empty of work items so you can have space for these personal objects without creating clutter. Be careful not to fill your work space with too many objects (work-related or personal). Leave some spaces empty to cultivate a peaceful, meditative environment that fosters deeper thinking.
Smart Features and Modern Conveniences
Features like smart outlets and smart light bulbs add to the convenience of your home office. Program your work station to light up and turn on before you show up for work in the morning, so you'll be ready to sit down and get to work when the time comes. Ask your contractor to install extra outlets and USB plugs so you can charge your devices and enjoy total convenience throughout the workday.
Flexible Space
The best home offices are the ones that provide flexible seating and work spaces for you and anyone else you need to meet with during the work day. Include a couch, desk and work chair and potentially a conference table. Ask yourself if you'll be meeting with clients, and if so, make room.
Create An Isolated Space
Are your kids at home during the day? What about pets, or your spouse? Loud noises elsewhere in the house can cause a variety of problems during virtual meetings, phone calls and while you're trying to spend focused time completing tasks.
Sound insulation can help create a separate space where you can get work done without listening to the day to day chaos happening elsewhere in the house. You can even take this a step further by installing a separate bathroom that will allow you to stay in your workspace without walking through the house and becoming distracted by other family members.
Peaceful Environment
Create a peaceful environment where you can relax. Use a combination of neutral and cool paint colors to calm your mood and create a feeling of relaxation. Install carpeting for a cozy warm feeling, especially in the winter. Consider installing a ceiling fan for summer comfort. This helps make your home office one of the most comfortable rooms in the house, and a place where you can enjoy yourself as you do work.
Expressive Touches
Add expressive touches to make your home office your own space. Consider installing an accent wall with wallpaper, or using rugs and creative window treatments to express your personality. Consider working with an interior designer as well as an experienced contractor to create a home office design that will meet your unique needs and also make your home office space something beautiful.
Find a Connecticut Contractor You Can Trust
Finding the best Connecticut contractor for your home office remodel is important. A good design build contractor can help you find the right home office design to meet your work needs as well as your personal needs.
Create the space you've always wanted to work in with a Connecticut contractor that's skilled and experienced. Download our free guide to finding a professional home remodeling contractor to learn more.
