2013-07-28

Creating the perfect home office

Home offices can make your life so much easier if you run a business from home, or if you simply want a nice little retreat where you can catch up on the work that you’ve brought home with you.

Many people are under the illusion that you have to be fabulously wealthy to possess a home office: this is completely and utterly false. Bear in mind that your office will be as big or small as you want it to be.

Hence, it is completely possible to create this space without going overboard on your budget. Your office might not be huge and overly luxurious, but it will still have all the basic equipment that you will need for work.

Don’t hesitate to decorate your office with small, discreet ornaments or even a couple of potted plants. Such accents automatically induce a welcoming and cozy atmosphere.

Furniture

Before you set up your office, it is crucial to plan your work space and draw a list of every piece of furniture that you are going to need. Remember that you will be spending several hours in this office, so comfort is the key.

Of course, it goes without saying that you will need a desk and a chair. Make sure that your desk is of a comfortable height and width.  If you can afford it, you can indulge in the comfort of an executive chair.  Alternatively, you may also purchase a swivel chair that will allow you to easily navigate through your office.

If you tend to bury yourself in paper works for several long hours, then you might want to get yourself a file cabinet.

These tall sets of metal drawers are extremely convenient and practical in every office. Armoires can also come very handy in storing files, paper clips, printer ink and other fiddly things that often tend to get lost.

If you’re short on space, you may even consider some shelving options to store various office supplies, books and the likes.

Some other elegant, but expensive office furniture include extra chairs for visitors, a bookcase or even a couch.  

Lights, walls and floors  

It is common knowledge that poor, dim lights are absolutely murderous on the eyes, especially if you’re reading or using the computer. While you may make the most out of natural sunlight during the day, you definitely need to invest in some good quality fixtures that will keep your office bright at night.

The best lighting options for a home office include built-in, overhead, ambient, and corrective lights.

When it comes to walls and flooring, try to keep it stylish but simple. Indeed, your flooring should be low maintenance and easy to clean. Carpets, wood panels and marbles are your best options. As for the walls, a simple wall paint or wall paper might do the trick.

However, if you want to splurge and go all the way, you can even dress up your floors and walls in matching wood paneling. This gives quite a sophisticated appeal to any home office.

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