create a space

Every home has a small corner, cupboard, room or area which has the potential for becoming a home office or work ‘station’. 

The secret is to organize it in such a way that it is conducive for work, yet blends well enough with the rest of your decor for it to still look like home.

find a place

Setting up somewhere comfortable and quiet is important for concentration so keep away from the main traffic areas of the home 

Consider an area which ‘feels’ good, then evaluate available light, power outlets and potential for a desk, shelves and storage

light

Placing a desk near a window is ideal for using available daylight. Ensure the window can be opened for fresh air and has suitable window dressing to adjust light and provide privacy. Pendant lights and lamps can be used for working at night

furniture

To keep things looking like home, it’s best to avoid ‘office’ furniture and use furniture which complements your room

A desk can be as simple as a small dining or hall table, a good looking door on trestle legs or a purpose built desk with drawers

For bulky printers and fax machines, look for low cabinets with doors which can be adapted to accommodate and hide the equipment in style 

Office chairs should be avoided at all costs so look around for smart and unusual alternatives.  A comfortable dining or arm chair which offers good support is ideal or for something a little different, scout around the ‘retro’ second hand furniture stores
 
walls

To give the space where you will work a real ‘lift’,   consider painting just the one the wall behind or in front of the desk in a complementary colour to the rest of the room.  Use shelves and smart looking storage boxes chosen to suit your scheme, alternatively hang a series of framed photographs or one large painting.  Avoid notice or white boards on main walls as they can appear untidy, instead hang them on the reverse side of a cupboard door

telephone and electrical

For only a few appliances, a power board may be all that is required to extend the electrical outlets.  If more are required, establish where and how many outlets you need then call in an electrician. A telephone socket may not be necessary in the desk area if you use a mobile or cordless phone system