Home offices have a variety of uses: paying bills, telecommuting for work, or even running your own business. Depending on what you need, a home office should always have enough space for good storage for files and supplies, have a comfortable chair and workspace, and offer inspiration. Don’t let your office be dreary like an old cubicle! Create your ultimate home office in just a few simple steps.
Separate Yourself
To give yourself a quiet place to work, set up your office away from your main living area. A room with a door is best, so you can close yourself off and focus on work with minimal interruptions.
Desks and Chairs
Invest in a well-made chair and desk. They can be both practical and something that fits your style. First, determine what size desk you need. Desk sizes range from imposing executive types to slim writing surfaces. Many are adjustable in height, which also offers health benefits. Choose a chair that has lumbar support if you’ll be sitting at your desk most of the day. When seated, your feet should be flat on the floor with 90-degree angles at your hips and knees. Leave enough area in the office for storage and a chair or two for clients or visitors.
Lighting
This is another area that should not be skimped on. Poor lighting can cause headaches and eye strain and make you feel claustrophobic. Place your desk near a window for natural light. It works wonders for productivity and adjusting to the cycles of the day. You should have three types of lighting in your office: natural light from windows, ambient light from ceiling and standing lamps, and direct light from a desk lamp to illuminate your workspace. 
Wall Colors
It’s no fun to stare at plain white walls all day long. Consider adding some color with paint. Blue is calming but will get your ideas flowing because it’s also considered an intellectual hue. Green is soothing and will help to balance your thoughts and ideas. Yellow is a warm color – perfect for a north facing room – and can help you feel positive, awake, and inspired.
Organization
In order to keep everything neat and tidy, create a system to organize your office. It will help you to find everything when you need it, avoid distractions, and stay on track. No more wasted time as you rifle through files and desk drawers.
Filing cabinets are not always the most attractive, but you still need a place for paperwork. If you don’t want a file cabinet, try other types of storage: an antique dresser, pretty baskets or boxes, or a large bookshelf. Find smaller containers for paperclips, pens, stamps, etc. for your desktop. If your office also has a closet, use that space for storage. Add a shelving system or small file cabinets, and you won’t need to use up important office floorspace.
Personal Design
Having a home office means you can make it your own. Adding plants around the room can clean the air and make space feel more inviting. The scent of lavender plants is relaxing, and succulents are easy to maintain. To inspire you, hang favorite photos or paintings of places you’d love to visit. Hang the awards you’ve won. Put a thick, soft rug under the desk to nestle your feet in. Keep computer wires under control with zip ties. Add an inspiration board nearby with all your amazing ideas on it.
Joseph Douglas Homes is the Greater Milwaukee area’s award-winning home builder and remodeling, contractor. If you’re looking to build brand new or remodel your existing home, contact Joseph Doulas Homes today and have your dream home become a reality!
