Many people in the last few years have made the switch to working from home. While some have only been temporary solutions to a much larger problem, many people have made the decision to continue working from home. Partly as a result of corporate downsizing of office spaces as businesses realize the efficiency of allowing employees the flexibility to work remotely, and partly because employees are requesting a higher level of convenience in integrating work into their daily lives.
While working from home does offer a great deal of convenience, if you don’t have the right space for working from home, it can be an added source of stress. These are a few home renovations for working from home that really works. Whether you’re adding a home office or making other home improvements for working from home, keep these tips in mind.
Space Race: Create a Dedicated Home Office or Work Space
These are a few options to consider for your work from home space. Some are preferable to others, though all will work if you plan your space well.
- Your kitchen table.
- A spare room with a door.
- A quiet corner in your bedroom or other low-traffic room.
- Convert a closet into a home office.
- Add on a room. This will usually require a home renovation or similar loan but it offers a dedicated office space that is out of the way, quiet, and conducive to working from home.
Obviously, some solutions are more attractive than others. However, the larger the renovation required, the higher the costs. If you’re looking for a permanent work-from-home solution, though, investing a little money is probably the wisest choice.
Organize Your Space Properly
Even small spaces can yield big results when they are properly organized for greater productivity. Consider these tips to get your space organized for efficiency and results.
- Install a filing system or bookshelf.
- Choose an ergonomic chair and sufficiently-sized desk.
- Make sure you have adequate air circulation, even if you need to add a small fan and/or an air purifier.
- Ensure easy access to office supplies, wastebaskets, and office equipment.
- Upgrade your lighting. Natural sunlight is best, otherwise, consider bright lighting so you do not strain your eyes while working.
These changes mean your space is more conducive to your needs while working from home and allows you to maintain the appropriate level of productivity to make your case for continuing to work from home once your office re-opens.
Create a Comfy and Workable Kitchen – You’ll Be Using it More
The truth is that if you’re working from home, you’re more likely to make the most of your access to the kitchen for things like quickie lunches, preparing nutritious family dinners, and even ducking in for quick afternoon snacks. Consider these upgrades for your kitchen, while you’re at it.
- New energy-efficient appliances.
- A new coat of paint.
- A cheery backsplash.
- Updating your cabinet fronts.
The most important consideration when creating a space to work from home is that you make it a space that is comfortable for you to use. This includes the amount of space you’ve carved out for yourself, the sound quality within that space, the privacy to manage your business needs, and your physical comfort as well. Otherwise, you could find yourself experiencing more frequent back strains, headaches, eye strain, and exhaustion from constant stress.
If your current budget cannot absorb these added expenses without strain, consider contacting Mid America Mortgage. We offer a variety of loan and renovation financing options that can make your work-at-home office renovations work better for you.