The lockdown of COVID-19 had made us all work from home for at least a year, and most people found it beneficial. It saved commuting time and money, for starters. But on top of all the pros, the cons started piling up as well. People developed the unhealthy habit of working more than necessary. The home environment combined with work stress did not make a healthy combination. If you live with your family, it could get challenging to get the work done. With flexible working hours comes the problem of finding the motivation to start work every day. A lot of self-discipline is required once you start working from home. But it will get easier if you convert a spare bedroom into an office and consider it a virtual office with your boss hovering over your shoulder and colleagues around who want to beat you to the promotion. But before you decide to re-design the spare room, you should know some things.
Things You Need To Know Before Converting Your Room To An Office
1. Find The Right Space (And Clean It)
If you don’t have a spare bedroom, you can still make an office for yourself at home. Take stock of what you have at your house and check out the places with minor foot traffic. It could be a walk-in closet, attic, basement, library, den, etc. Work in the area where you have decided to be an office and see how you feel before settling for a day. You will realize what kind of problems you will face and be better equipped to re-design it. Once you work there, you will know if that area needs more light or charging points. Make a note of everything you will require in that space and start cleaning out the entire room. Scrub it clean, to begin with, a clean slate.
2. Find Your Style
Are you a minimalist kind of guy? Or would you like a cozy office vibe? Find the right style that works for you, which will help you decide the next step. If this workspace is going to be shared with a sibling or your spouse, consider their preferences before deciding. If your kids are also going to be sharing the space, it will be a good idea to blend the styles, so the office works best for everyone involved.
3. Find The Right Furniture For You
Based on the style, you can brainstorm the type of furniture you will need. Whatever the preference, make sure to get a chair that will serve you and your back. Buy and place the table based on the charging slots and lighting. You can map out the room on paper by taking measurements of the room and the table. You don’t have to be an artist or an interior designer to do this.
Find The Right Furniture For You
4. Find The Accessories For You
Once you have decided on the style and the right furniture, it is time to enhance the atmosphere. Add in all the necessary electronics like landline, printer, etc. The organization of your desk will dictate your work mood every day, so make sure to buy stationery that you need and organize it correctly with the help of a pen holder and storage system. If you love brainstorming ideas while talking to someone or just walking around the room, get a whiteboard and attach it to a wall. Make sure to add a backdrop that makes you feel right in the office. Notice what you loved about your office and add it to your home office.
