If spare bedrooms are on short supply, carving out a dedicated workspace can be challenging – especially if more than one person is teleworking. If you’re trying to minimize distractions and want your own workspace, check out these creative ways to turn unused space into a comfortable and functional home office.
Photo: siraanamwong via canva.com
Photo: siraanamwong via canva.com
Walk-In or Reach-In Office Oasis
Let’s face it – propping your laptop on the coffee table might be okay for a while. Doing it long term, however, could get tedious. That’s why it’s nice (and probably more productive) to get away from distractions in your main living space while you work.
Converting a walk-in or reach-in closet into an office oasis is one solution:
1. Relocate or reorganize your clothes and other items.
2. Make a list of everything you need in order to do your job effectively.
3. Now it’s time to measure!
4. If you have a large walk-in closet, you might have room for a small desk and chair.
5. Consider putting in shelves and/or a counter to house your computer, printer, router, and office supplies. This is an inexpensive, space-saving way to make sure your essentials are nearby and tidy.
Keep in mind that most closets don’t have electrical outlets. Adding both standard and USB outlets will help power up your electronic devices, without having to worry about extension cords. You should also consider how much lighting you’ll need. Many walk-ins have overhead lights, but some don’t. Calling professionals who can help with additional electrical wiring for new lights can make a world of difference in your closet office!
Basement Board Room
Both finished and unfinished basements are prime untapped workspaces.
1. It’s important to identify and repair any electrical or HVAC safety hazards in your potential sub-level office. An experienced electrician can inspect wiring and do repairs or power upgrades – including installing whole-home surge protection.
2. Given the rise in popularity (and necessity) of virtual online meetings, you might also want to boost your basement “boardroom” signal with a WIFI extender.
3. An HVAC system tune-up can also improve the air quality in the basement and throughout your home.
Once safety and comfort are maximized, you can make your workspace as elaborate or simple as you’d like!
1. If your basement is finished and divided, choose one room for your office. If it’s a big unfinished open space, define a working area with a large rug, desk, chairs, file cabinets, and anything else that will help your productivity.
2. As with your closet, adding USB outlets, counters, or shelves can all help you turn a previously unused space into something practical and efficient.
3.Especially if your basement is unfinished, consider installing a ceiling fan with lights – this can brighten your space and make it more comfortable.
Photo: BartekSzwcyk via canva.com
Photo: BartekSzwcyk via canva.com
Don’t Overlook an Office Nook
Whether you live in a big house or a small studio apartment, unique architectural nooks and corners make versatile, space-saving office zones. Look around your home to identify these built-in recesses. Does your kitchen or bedroom have a defined corner that’s underutilized?
In this type of space, add a wall-mounted drop-down shelf or counter for your laptop. Just pull up a chair to work and when you’re done simply fold your “desk” and hide it away. You can also add shelves above the drop-down or on the adjacent wall to hold files, books, a desk lamp, or other supplies.
Repurposing Sunrooms, Sheds, and Other Spaces
Since most of us can’t practically work remotely on an idyllic Caribbean beach, setting up a desk in front of a panel of sunroom windows is a wonderful alternative – especially if you have a sweeping view of a garden, lake, or scenic backyard.
Likewise, converting a shed or garage into a home office gets you out of the house and away from daily household distractions. A change of scenery can be a great motivator and boost your spirits.
Some homes also have bonus rooms, lofts, or attics over the garage. These areas offer separation from other high-traffic rooms. If climate control is challenging in these spaces, ductless AC and heating options can help control temperatures in individual rooms.
Photo: Ryan McVay via canva.com
Photo: Ryan McVay via canva.com
Doctor Fix-It is Ready to Help
However you decide to convert your living space(s) into a comfortable, functional, and enjoyable home office, Doctor Fix-It is ready to help you with the transformation!
If you need an outlet in your closet, ductwork in a loft, or any other electrical, plumbing, or HVAC solutions, call us today at 303-993-1550 to see how our experienced technicians can help.
The news and editorial staffs of The Denver Post had no role in this post’s preparation.
