Custom Home Office Design Tips

Remote work has been slowly gaining popularity since the mid-2000s but has been catapulted into the forefront in response to the pandemic. It is quickly becoming the norm for many employees instead of the exception.

As more people are telecommuting, the popularity of the home office is also on the rise.

Workers need a comfortable space where they can work, which encourages productivity and creativity. The beauty of the home office though is that unlike working outside the home, you can design your home office any way you like. You can add your own personal touches and make it uniquely yours – and Valley Drapery & Upholstery can help.

Design a Layout that Promotes Productivity

A good home office layout is part what you do, part what you need from your office, and part your personal style. Here are some key points for specific types of work:

• Business Professional
  • Large desk with lots of drawers
  • Bookshelves
  • Minimal windows or insulating window coverings
  • Overhead light and desk light
  • Can be private for making calls
• Creative and Collaborative
  • Open floorplan
  • Lots of windows
  • Plenty of counters or tables
  • Bare walls, dry erase boards, cork boards
  • Overhead light and several lamps
• Meeting with Visitors
  • Proper desk
  • Plenty of chairs for visitors
  • Ability to make the office private
  • Adjustable lighting – can be lowered or raised
  • Curtains or blinds on the windows for privacy
• One Man (or Woman) Show
  • Computer desk with lots of drawers
  • Bookcases with bins for organization
  • Corkboard on the wall for notes
  • The layout makes everything easily accessible
  • Sofa or comfy chair for those long work hours
• Customer Service or Help Desk
  • Privacy
  • Phone with headset
  • Comfortable chair
  • Noise blocking, insulating window coverings
  • Mini fridge

Choose Window Coverings that are Stylish and Functional

You have plenty of choices for your window covering. Drapes, shades, blinds, and shutters all offer both style and functionality. All can be used to block out noise and keep sunlight from getting in, but if you want maximum control of light and sound, then shutters are the way to go.

Drapes, blinds, and shades can be opened and closed, allowing sunlight in when you want and blocking it (mostly) when you don’t. Just keep in mind that blinds don’t provide complete blocking of light and sound. Black-out drapes are effective though, so it comes down to style and personal taste.

Wall Upholstery Sparks Creativity and Inspiration

Upholstered walls offer a depth and richness that paint and wallpaper do not. Choose your favorite colors, textures, and designs to truly customize your home office. It works great for small spaces as well as large spaces, making it ideal for a home office.

If you are using a design, it is best to hire a professional to instill the fabric. Lightweight fabrics like linen, cotton, and silk do well, but you can use most materials. Just know that some are more challenging to install than others.

Select Furniture that Reflects Your Personal Style

You’re probably going to be spending a lot of time in your home office, so you want furniture that is a reflection of your personal style. When you shop for your desk, chairs, and other office furniture, don’t just look, try it out.  That minimalist desk might look cool, but just how practical is it for what you are doing?

Don’t make the mistake of sacrificing form for function. You want your furniture to look great, but you also want it to do what you need it to do. However, the beauty of home office design is that it is in your home so you can design it any way you like.

Tips for Your Best Home Office Design

Designing your home office is a very personal experience. These tips can help you make the most of your efforts.

A great chair is worth the investment. You are going to be in your office a lot which means you will probably be sitting at your desk – a lot. There’s no reason why you can’t be comfortable. A great chair is a great investment.

Placement is important. Arrange your furniture so that it makes sense to you. Putting your desk by a window gives you the gift of a view while you work. Keeping everything where you can easily get to it will help keep your workflow going with minimal interruptions.

Choose décor that you love. This is your home office. Decorate it your way. Add some color, personal photos, and some handmade art to really make the space your own. Look for interesting pieces and décor that you enjoy looking at. Find what brings you joy and incorporate it into your office space.

Vertical organization is your friend. Most homes are limited for storage space, meaning that most home offices are storage challenged as well. Vertical storage is a lifesaver. Where horizontal storage spreads out, vertical storage stacks up. Look for ways to utilize the space above your desk and tables. Shelving, bookcases, and storage towers give you extra room beautifully.

Make your space comfortable. Your office is your space, and it should be a place that is comfortable for you. Work is a whole lot easier if you love the space, you’re working in.

Are you embarking on your own home office design adventure? Let Valley Drapery & Upholstery help you create a space you will love. Contact us today and talk to one of your talented designers to get started.