Working from home in 2020 became the new norm. Overnight, everyone who wasn’t working from home had to figure out how to set up a functional home office. Now that “work from home” might be here to stay, you may want to freshen up your home office look and make a solid investment into your home office future.
You want your home office to inspire you and ignite your creativity. The colors in your home office should pop and energize you. This is the place where you will spend 8 hours + a day, so you want it to be comfortable and practical. Now is a better time than any to remodel your home office or to create a home office space for the first time, especially since it may become a permanent fixture in your home.
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Building a Functional Home Office: The Necessities
First you will need furniture. Now that more and more people are working from home, the options for your home office furniture are endless. You can find anything to match your style and budget. You will also need to have a space in mind to create your home office.
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Choosing a Desk
There are so many types of desks to choose from. You can invest in a walking treadmill desk or even a stand-up desk, both are becoming more and more popular as they force you to move more and help with circulating blood flow. These are definitely the healthiest options. If you prefer the more traditional sit-down method, consider a fold down desk, so your clutter can be neatly tucked away. Especially if your home office is technically your bedroom, you don’t want to be constantly reminded of all the work you have left to do. Fold the desk up for the night and let everything wait until the next day. “L” shaped desks are the most popular as they work fantastic for multiple screens.
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Picking the Right Chair
This is one area where you don’t want to skimp. After all, you will be sitting in it for over 2,080 hours a year. Find one that’s comfortable, yet supportive and adjustable. You want your feet to be even on the floor and posture to be upright when sitting at your desk. Choose a chair that’s adjustable and able to withstand the test of time.
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Computer Monitor(s)
Having a large screen will help with your home office. Invest in a large monitor so you can see your emails ergonomically. You can place it on some books or make a stand so that the monitor is eye level with you – that way your neck isn’t strained by looking up or down. You can have dual monitors or even curved ones if that’s more your style, just make sure you have an L shaped desk. Dual monitors are proven to increase productivity.
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Keyboard & Mouse
Bluetooth is best when considering a keyboard and mouse. Either one with batteries or the rechargeable ones are convenient and easy. Make sure they are ergonomically correct, so you can avoid issues with carpal tunnel syndrome later.
Are you ready to remodel your home to include a home office? We have a comprehensive approach that unifies design and construction. Visit Sea Pointe Design & Remodel to learn more.
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Home Office Accessories
You will want a functioning printer, preferably one that copies, scans, and works as a fax machine. They even have printers that order ink when you start to get low so you never have to worry about ordering ink again. Get a smart printer, the less you have to worry about trivial things, the more productive you’ll be on the important stuff.
Noise cancelling headphones are also a must when working from home. There are bound to be distractions and when you have deadlines to meet, these headphones are a lifesaver.
If you have an Amazon Alexa, you can connect the speaker to your computer via Bluetooth or opt for your own speakers. Speakers are recommended if you are going to be attending webinars and participating in Zoom calls.
Also, a footrest can help with circulation and posture. Consider your location. A backup battery pack might also be a good investment. If harsh weather hits and a blackout occurs, your battery pack will come in handy. Don’t forget the essentials, like pens and pencils, highlighters, paperclips and a bright red stapler. You can pack them neatly away in a drawer or grab a little basket to keep your office accessories out of sight.
Functional Home Office Remodels
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Incorporating Colors
When choosing a color for your home office, think of vibrant colors. Sure, you can go for boring beige or plain white, but why not live a little? Go for a red backsplash, a power color that reminds you daily that you are powerful and in charge. Or a forest green to remind you of all the money you’re going to be making. You don’t need to paint the whole room but having a colorful accent wall can be inspirational when working from home.
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Creating an Office Nook
You will need a professional’s help when deciding to cut into your house to create your office nook. Any wall in your house could be your next office nook. You will need someone in design and construction to tell you if that is a supportive beam you’re cutting into – which is not recommended. Your home office could be an extra closet, with minimal construction, you could create a fantastic home office that you can hide once your work is complete for the day. Either way you will need a designer to be able to tell you realistically where your home office could go but feel free to get creative.
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Add Greenery
Adding a houseplant to your desk will not only help clean the air but will brighten your mood. Just don’t forget to water your new co-worker and make sure they occasionally get some rays of sunshine.
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Give Your Home Office a View
When thinking about where to locate your home office, consider somewhere with natural light. Working near windows has been shown to boost productivity and enhance your overall mood, so a case of the “Mondays” will soon be forgotten once the bright sun is shining on your face.
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Remodel Your Home Office to Stay Productive
designers at Sea Pointe Design & Remodel a call. Once you meet with one of the design consultants to review what your vision is, go over your sense of style and furniture and remodel needs, they will be able to provide you with expert advice and opinions.
No project is too small, and they will be able to create 3D renderings of your new home office. Remodel your home office today and be amazed by how productive you will be as a result. Visit Sea Pointe Design & Remodel to learn more.