The home office is primarily a task-orientated space so its design will be governed by practical considerations. But once these basic needs are met, go wild – and if you work at home, be happy in your environment!
Drawing up a plan of your home office will draw your attention to the issues that should be considered in your design. These include:
• Windows - screen
glare might be an
issue with computer
monitors
• Door –you may need
to face the door, or
you'll find it
distracting!
• Sockets - power,
phone and internet
points will govern
the placement of the
furniture
Some tips
- Avoid office furniture - while the keyboard area and chair will need ergonomic design, you could adapt the shelving inside a wardrobe to create alternative storage. Baskets or wine racks could also replace in-trays.
- Comfort zone – home offices sometimes double as guest bedrooms so a futon or sofa-bed may be incorporated anyway, but consider adding comfortable seating to your work space. A change of perspective can aid concentration.
- Wall art – though you might need a memo board, adding photos or art prints is inspiring as well as functional.
- Lighting - good task lighting is vital in a home office.
Striking a balance
between domesticity
and function is the
root of successful
home office design.