Home Offices: Create Comfort with Function

Working from home in the twenty-first century is a common scenario in almost every industry. Conference calls, emails, and other administrative tasks often can be completed outside a traditional office environment. In the spring of 2020, almost the entire American workforce across various industries is working remotely on a full- or part-time basis.

If telecommuting is a new shift for you, there are some simple ways to setup your space so that you can clear your mind to focus on your work – and to keep your work from overtaking your home. Take this opportunity to customize a new home office space that doesn’t have to mimic the bland cubicle or stark atmosphere you might be used to.

First, choose the right location. Set up the home office in an existing space that makes sense for your home and the rest of the family. In the absence of an empty spare room that’s “move-in ready,” can you convert a large closet, dining room or bonus room, section off part of the garage, basement or walk-up attic space?

Choose a spot that will best provide privacy and prevent distractions. Family members, pets, televisions, and other day-to-day activity around the house can keep you from focusing on work. If a private office is not possible, consider purchasing a room divider or screen to cut out the noise at home.

If you have the choice, select a space that allows you to optimize natural light. Abundant sunshine can boost your productivity, while on the flip side, improper lighting can cause eye fatigue and drowsiness, which hinders productivity.

Think about what you need for your workspace, depending on the kind of work you do. Is one desk surface enough for a laptop or computer monitor? Maybe you need a place to organize files and paperwork. If there is hardware or other electronics specific to your business, take that into consideration, as well. Select a chair that’s comfortable, the right height, and provides proper back support.

Add personal touches and color to make your new office inviting and enjoyable. You don’t have the same corporate restrictions at home that you might in a traditional office setting, so take advantage of it. Put up window treatments, and use artwork and accessories to express your style — even if it doesn’t match the rest of your home, because it’s your office.

If you’re in the market for a new home, you can select a new construction floor plan from LaMontagne Builders that already includes an office space, or work with us to rethink a floor plan that could work for you by adding a door or closet that provides the room you need. Until then, we wish you and your family well as we all learn to navigate life in this new normal.