Working@Home: How to Create a Functional Home Office

by Sandy Dixon, Interior Arrangements, Inc. ©2004 

The home office has come a long way and statistics confirm its growing allure---more than 50 million Americans work from home in some capacity, according to the American Internet Users Survey. 

Home offices run the gamut from full time careers to bill paying stations to a place where homework is done.  They have evolved from makeshift desks tucked away in the corner or space on the dining room, kitchen or coffee table, to a space of its own with enormous decorating possibilities.  

Whether you opt to decorate your office in the same style as the rest of your home or choose a totally different look, your home office should reflect your personality and interests, while being both functional and attractive.  There are plenty of personal touches you can add to make your office a fun, inviting and productive space.  

Here are some to try:

• Color can improve your environment dramatically. Paint the walls a color that makes you feel good. As an alternative, use fabric, curtains or decorative screens as an attractive backdrop.
• Match your office accessories to your décor.
• Cork boards, white boards and blackboards are perfect for posting reminders and motivational messages and an easy way to track important appointments and ‘to-do’ lists.
• Keep crayons, paper and treats on hand to keep children occupied while you finish work.
• If pets are a part of your life, designate a comfortable spot for them---that works for you too!
• Use flowers or green plants to create ambiance and improve air quality.
• Hang artwork that you love and display collectibles in a dramatic arrangement.
• Include personal photos, a favorite poster or frame a child’s artwork and hang on the wall.
• Add a loveseat or two chairs (space permitting) for visitors and for meetings.
• If you are working in a basement or room that is lacking architectural character, create interest by putting a decorative rug under foot.

Let there be light! If you are fortunate to have a window in your home office, try to place your desk facing the window.  A view of the outside may seem like a distraction, but sunlight has been proven to increase brain activity and efficiency. If you have to locate your home office in an underused area of the house, consider investing a several light sources: ambient, multiple task lights and antiglare fixtures for computer work. 

Under cover: Try to hide wires, cords and the plugs from computer, printer, lamps, fax, copy machine and answering machine.  Home center stores sell devices that cover all those unsightly cords. 

Storage solutions: An efficient workspace is not cluttered, so make sure you have plenty of storage space. 

• Look for furnishings that serve dual functions like an armoire that can store files and house the media equipment at the same time.
• Stackable wire or wicker file baskets are good alternatives to boring, metal file cabinets.
• Think vertically by adding shelving, cabinets and bookcases over your work area to increase space and accessibility for frequently used items.
• Use the ‘circle of reach’ rule and place all things that are essential to your work within easy reach of your office chair. Store other materials and equipment you use less frequently in a nearby location.

Comfort cues:  Comfort is essential for doing a good job if you work at home. 

• Make certain you have a comfortable office chair.
• Your computer keyboard should be at a comfortable height.
• Attach a headset to your office phone to avoid a stiff neck and to free up your hands.

Injecting your home office with your personality sparks creativity and prevents you from feeling isolated.  Remember, you should have fun decorating your home office, because there are no corporate rules to follow---you’re the boss! 

Sandy Dixon, Owner of Interior Arrangements, Inc. is a Trainer, Consultant and Speaker who also offers redesign/staging workshops for both existing business owners and those looking to start a new career.  Visit her web site at www.interiorarrangements.com or call toll free 1.877.674.8667.