By Kim Armstrong
Planning a home office that is aesthetically pleasing and conducive to getting things done takes some planning and creativity. However, the payoff is worth the effort for a place you spend up to eight hours a day occupying.
Everything in Its Place
Functionality is key, so you want to address your floor plan and storage needs first. Think of the things you need regular, easy access to, such as a printer, binders, samples (for instance, if you are an interior designer), etc. You can create storage from built-ins, bookshelves, or my favorite, an armoire. An armoire is a great way to create storage while giving your office character. I keep my printer, file folders, backup ink, and all kinds of office supplies in mine.
Meeting of the Minds
Next, consider your view and lighting and how that will affect your computer and, in the mobile work age, how you’ll look on your Zoom calls. If you prefer to have your desk look out of the room and not towards a window, make sure there isn’t going to be a glare on your computer. If you do have glare, you can address that with window treatments. So don’t fret, just make sure to incorporate that into your plan. Also, think about having a separate seating area from your desk. This can be useful if you need a place to brainstorm, take a long call, or do some work-related reading. It’s nice to have that option, and it also gives you a chance to use some upholstery in a room that can have a lot of hard surfaces.
Lights, Camera, Action
Speaking of Zoom calls, if you are on many of these, arrange your space so that your backdrop is interesting and not distracting. This could mean some well-styled bookshelves — go to Pinterest for inspiration on how to style them — or a wallpapered wall with art and lamps. And don’t forget your lighting. Having a spot on your desk for a ring light can make all the difference. Thinking of these things in advance will mean you don’t have to figure out which electrical outlets you’ll be using for your computer, printing, and lighting needs because you determined this when creating your floor plan.
Make it Your Own
Once you have your layout designed, it’s time to address the aesthetics. Think about adding an area rug and window treatments. Your window treatments add interest to your room and can also be your best friend in terms of lighting. I prefer a layered window treatment that includes panels as well as an unlined woven shade. The unlined shade can shield you from glare without completely keeping the light from your room. The panels can provide full coverage if you need that. And don’t be afraid of color if that makes you happy. You can bring color in through wallpaper, window treatments, an area rug, or the upholstery in your seating area. Bring in as much or as little as you are comfortable with. Then enjoy your beautiful, well-functioning home office.
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