As we move into another week of the California safer at home order, many of us have been using an existing home office or created a makeshift WFH space. Telecommuting is nothing new, but for those new to telecommuting, carving out a workspace—no matter how big or small—to call your very own will bring a sense of order to the day-to-day.
There is no shortage of articles and blogs about home offices: how to convert; how to upgrade; the best design and layout; and the most conducive to productivity. As a designer, I appreciate them all. But not everyone has the luxury of an extra room or a large living area.
What to do when you don’t have much space? Here are some of our recommendations:
Start with the basics first. Find a spot near a window to get as much natural light as possible with the lease amount of distractions—television, noisy area, others in your household. Invest in a quality, ergonomic chair that provides proper back support.
Make the most of underused spaces such as under an open staircase or a large landing. Don’t discount a hallway if there is room for a nook. We once designed and created an alcove in a hallway for a client.
A spare closet could be converted. Take time to put a fresh coat of paint on the walls and shelves and hang some artwork. You can easily remove the door to let in natural light.
If you can’t build out, build up. Shelving or cabinets all the way up to the ceiling provides storage and draws the eye upward, making your room look taller.
Try a wall-mounted desk. When they are closed, they look like a cabinet.
No matter how you configure your WFH space, dedicate it as your work area. This means leaving it to take a walk around the block during a break, going somewhere else in your home to have lunch, and closing it up at the end of your workday. Be well and stay safe!
