Adding a home office is one of the fastest growing interior design trends. With all the technological advances in telecommunications and telecommuting, many business-minded people are turning to the home office as their new workplace. For some it is more simply an addition of practical space to help them organize and keep in control of their very busy lifestyles. Whatever the reason, if you’re considering a home office addition that can be not only practical but beautiful, seeking the advice of a Seattle interior design firm will get you pointed in the right direction. Here are a few key elements that you and your designer will have to consider.
Location
Deciding where to create a home office can often be the most difficult part of the task. Give some thought to when you’ll be spending your time there. If you are a work at home professional who will need quiet time for phone calls or network conferences, you may need the office to be away from the hustle and bustle of home life. On the other hand, if you’re a work at home parent with little ones around, you may need the space to be in view of a family room or play area. You’ll also want to be sure you have some natural light but window shades or blinds may be required to keep the sun off your computer at certain times of the day. A door that can be closed is also something to consider, and whether or not it has an inside lock function might be a personal consideration as well.
Needs
Just as anything in life, there are things we need, and things we want, and what we need and want for the home office is no exception. When designing your home office, look first to the things you must have to make it a useable, efficient space. Obviously you are going to need adequate electrical outlets, telephone or cable connections and proper lighting fixtures. You will need access to all these features when you configure your office furniture. The other absolute necessities are a good sturdy desk and a comfortable, ergonomically correct desk chair. Depending on the nature of your work, a filing cabinet may or may not be considered essential, but many desks will include one filing drawer, so this call can be made based on the amount of filing space you need.
Extras
This part of home office design is more aesthetic. Once your furniture is in place and your computer station wired and functional, you can invest a little time creating the mood and style of your home workspace. Obviously you want it to be a room that is comfortable but at the same time one that encourages productivity. Here’s where a designer’s knowledge and skills enter into the mix. They’ll suggest colors and textiles that will make your office a place to work but still provide a calm, comfortable atmosphere. Personal touches will add that little extra to make the space your own. Paintings, posters, shelving, window dressings and such should all be brought together in a design that offers flow and continuity while being practical and functional.
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