Home offices are becoming a must have in today's homes. Space for
computer and printer is already a standard necessity for many students.
It is a rare family that does not desire a computer work station
to pay bills, send and receive e- mail, and shop over the internet.
Then there are the small business owners who work out of their homes.
They often require entire rooms to be designed specifically for
their business needs.
Regardless of your home office needs, that perfect solution does
exist! However, it takes careful planning up front to make sure
the final design ends up functioning well for you.
As you are thinking about your home office, consider the following:
1) For what purpose will you primarily be using this space: filing,
bills, computer work, large projects, writing?
2) What are your energy needs: electricity, lighting, temperature,
ventilation, and telecommunications?
3) Will you need privacy: sound, visual, security?
4) Should you include an area for: meetings, conferences, presentations?
5) In addition to your computer, do you need space for: telephone,
answering machine, scanner, postage meter, task lighting, radio,
CD player, and under-counter refrigerator?
6) Should you plan space for computer tools: monitor, keyboard,
mouse, wrist/arm rests, copy easel, printer?
7) What are your filing/storage needs: bookkeeping, records, directories,
books, computer software, CDs and DVDs, printer paper, stationery
and other office supplies?
8) Have you thought about space for desk tools: pencils, pens, stapler,
paper clips, tape, and wastebasket?
9) Do you want to personalize your office with: plants, pictures,
art, and collectibles?
10) Where is the best place to establish your home office: near
the kitchen, in a bedroom, in an upstairs bonus room, in a downstairs
room with separate entrance?
After you have considered these questions, it is time to consult
with your builder/designer about the design and layout of your home
office. There are many options to choose from in terms of cabinetry,
work surfaces, and their configuration. Whether you prefer a contemporary
or traditional look is a matter of personal taste. However, it is
best to coordinate the design and color choices for your home office
with the interior design of the rest of your home, especially if
the office is in an open area, visible from another room.
You will need to decide if you prefer an uncluttered look, where
everything hides neatly behind closed doors, or open shelving where
you can more easily see and immediately grasp what you need. Wood
cabinets lend a warm feeling to the space, but laminates or solid
surface are more functional for the work surfaces. Do not forget
to consider the comfort and ergonomics of the space. Having your
work surfaces at an uncomfortable height, or selecting a desk chair
that does not offer good back support can create backaches and other
irritations.
By carefully combining your home office needs with an attractive,
functional design, the final result is an enjoyable as well as convenient
work space.
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