For the first time in our careers, many of us here in Newport News, Poquoson, York County and Yorktown are now working from home. While our pets might be thrilled, many of us are struggling to find solutions to remain productive as we adjust to our new work-from-home environments. Veteran work-from-homers suggest that creating a dedicated workspace, whether temporary or permanent, is one of the best ways to stay focused and engaged during the workday.
Below are some tips on how you can make a temporary home office and things to keep in mind if you need to plan for a long-term solution.
Tackling the Temporary
- Location: While a spare room is the likely choice, if you don’t have one there are still many suitable options. A corner of a room, the end of the kitchen table, a large closet, or even the laundry room can serve as a temporary setup.
- Design: Remember, it does not have to be pretty. It just needs to be functional. Try utilizing some items from your “at work” office to make the space more familiar. This could include hanging up your calendar, adding pictures or artwork or finding a space for a plant.
PRO TIP: Make sure you have access to plenty of outlets. If needed, grab an extension cord. - Lighting: Ensuring you have ample lighting can keep your eyes from straining. A space where natural sunlight can filter in is a good choice, but it’s not always an option in a temporary space. Try adding a spare lamp to brighten up your workspace.
- Furniture: Use what you have to create what you need. Tables and the tops of other furniture can be turned into a desk and plastic bins can be used for staying organized. Find a chair in your house that is the appropriate height for your new desk, while also comfortable to sit in for long periods of time.
Planning for Permanence
- Location: Do you have an extra room you can renovate or do you need to create an entirely new space? Creating a new space doesn’t have to be complicated and can easily be achieved through an addition to your home or by walling off a room. A home remodeling contractor like Criner Remodeling can help you choose the best option for your needs.
- Design: Choose a design aesthetic that best fits your style. A soothing, comfortable office space can help your productivity and creativity. Be sure to include plenty of outlets in your space (and have them in appropriate areas) to suit your electrical needs.
- Lighting: If possible, create a space that has both natural and adjustable lighting options. This will allow you to adapt the lighting to your needs throughout the day.
- Furniture: Invest in furniture that will fit the space as well as your needs. Desks, chairs, shelving, and storage are all items you’ll want to take into consideration for your new home office. Consider choosing high-quality products and finishes that will withstand daily wear and tear.
Have a project in mind? We’re still open and ready to help.
Whether you need a permanent home office or a more functional kitchen, Criner Remodeling is here to help, even during these uncertain times. The safety of our team, customers and community is our priority. We are observing best practices for social distancing, including a slimmed-down job site team, virtual consultations, and working remotely. Contact us today to see how we can assist you with your next home remodeling project.