Work From Home – 5 Design Tips & Properties with Offices
After 2020 and the summer months with children underfoot, it may have become glaringly obvious just how important it is to have a designated work area at home. So for those who may want to refresh a current space or are renovating to accommodate such a room, here are 5 design tips to create an office that is refreshing, inspiring and motivating.
Tip 1 – Perfect the Desk
source: Iconic Life and One Kindesign
The location of the desk is one of the most important aspects when it comes to designing a home office. It’s where the work happens, after all. Facing a wall could decrease motivation and productivity while facing a window may cause distractions. If a window is directly in front of or behind the desk, add window treatments to cut back on blinding light or glares on the computer screen. Additionally, with so many businesses video conferencing these days, keep in mind how many people could be seen moving around in the background.
Tip 2 – Corral the Clutter
source: Sebring Design Build, Kate Marker Interiors and Dee Frazier Decorating Den Interiors
No one wants their desk to be the only source of storage. An organized office creates a productive work environment anyway. So make sure to include built-ins, shelving or drawers for storing paperwork, office equipment like printers, and personal touches such as books, picture frames and artwork. Closed cabinetry can hide paperwork and other unsightly technology and equipment, while open shelving provides flexible storage and makes the room appear larger.
Tip 3 – Light the Way
source: Reno Guide, Astra Collection and Luxe Deco
In order to work, people have to be able to see what they’re doing, right? So make sure not to forget lighting when designing and mapping out a workspace. Poor lighting can dampen moods, cause headaches and eyestrain, and even reduce energy. Natural light is the best source but artificial light fixtures are a great option for workspace illumination too. Try to diffuse the ambient light and keep it indirect to avoid glares. Think lampshades, upward-shining floor lamps, ceiling lights with dimmers, and adjustable desk lamps to get light exactly where needed.
Tip 4 – Let the Walls Talk
source: Fun House Furnishings and Design and Anewall
Toss the idea of “office beige” out the window and feel free to experiment with color. A home office should be inspiring and boost work productivity after all. Since there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to an appropriate hue or pattern, just have fun with it! For some, a bright and cheery color is ideal for getting the juices flowing while others prefer a more calming shade. Learn more about the psychology of color and how it can affect mood here.
Tip 5 – Personality at Play
source: One Kind Design and Palmerston Design Consultant
When designing or updating a home office, don’t be scared to let your personality show. Here, there is no need to maintain a cold and sterile environment. Keeping the space comfy, cozy and inviting is just as important to one’s productivity and motivation as lighting and storage. Whether it’s incorporating natural elements like potted plants that add a positive and calming vibe, or introducing decorative wall art and framed photos, accessorize with what you love and with what brings you joy.
For those currently on the search for their next dream home, these luxury properties offer sophisticated offices that combine both comfort and functionality for the perfect space to work from home. Give us a call if you would like to tour them in person. We would be honored to assist you!
546 Beach Dr, Aptos, CA 95003
Listed at $6,800,000 by Colleen Marchbank
Located just steps from the sand, this luxury property in the exclusive gated end of Beach Drive features world-class ocean views and the ideal layout for today’s lifestyle. The over 6,800 square feet of usable space includes 6 bedrooms, 5 and a half bathrooms, and an executive office with incredible ocean views.
162 Twin Oaks Dr, Los Gatos, CA 95032
Listed at $4,399,000 by David Welton
Nestled in one of the very best neighborhoods in Los Gatos, this immaculate Surrey-Farms estate has been fastidiously maintained and shows like a model home. Working from home would be a breeze in the impressive state-of-the-art office that offers walls of windows for natural light and plenty of workspaces.
1699 English Dr, San Jose, CA 95129
Listed at $2,099,000 by Monica Lussier
Beautiful, warm and inviting, this single-story home features 4 bedrooms, 2 and a half bathrooms and plenty of natural light throughout. For those working from home, the fourth bedroom has been set up to be an office with ample built-in shelving.
1859 Vía Cinco De Mayo, San Jose, CA 95132
Listed at $1,287,000 by Darren Wilford
Nestled in the lovely Berryessa neighborhood, this contemporary, single-story home features a versatile and open floor plan. The idyllic backyard boasts a courtyard-like patio and detached shed that serves as a home office or art studio.
1509 2nd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401
Listed at $1,480,000 by Michael Liffmann
A perfect balance of location, relaxed living and an abundance of space, this San Mateo gem boasts light and fresh finishes throughout. The open floorplan offers several options for hobby rooms, playrooms and home offices.
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