So, you work from home and are loving every minute of it, right? Then, it's time for some redecorating. No, not your living room, your home office.
You'd probably be surprised to know that interior decorating your home-office space can be just as important as designing the rest of your house, maybe even more important. A well laid out office space can improve your productivity and your happiness.
Now, to start off, let's think about location. You
r home office should be some place where you will have privacy. A spare bedroom or an out of the way alcove will work great. You still want to be part of the house, but you also need your privacy for those phone calls and business client visits.
Natural lighting also should be a significant part of your design plan. A window gives you something to look at when you get stressed out and some fresh air when you feel cramped. Speaking of lighting, try to avoid glaring overhead lights like you find in a regular office. Go for more diffused lighting. A good lamp may be all you need.
Next up is color. You shouldn't paint your office in drab gray or black nor should it be too gaudy. You want to be comfortable, but not too agitated or depressed. Neutral colors work best. But, if you really want to add some personality to your walls, add artwork. Buy that artist that you admire so much. Just think of it as a business expense.
Plants also are wonderful additions to home offices. They, too, will add color and personality to your space. When they bloom, it's like adding a whole different element to the room.
While you may not think of storage as an "design element", it's actually a very critical part of your home-office interior design plan. Now, when I refer to storage, I don't mean the metal filing cabinet with the key hanging from it. No. Storage can be anything: a built-in wall unit, unique shelving or even your own creation. Be artistic. It's your space. Really make it your own. Just do account for storage. A cluttered desk and work area is very distracting and will affect your work output. Another item that can greatly reduce clutter is a multifunction printer. As a home office worker, you have necessities: printer, fax and copier. Yet, these can come in one neat package. And, nowadays, these printers can be some really striking machines.
Finally, let's talk furniture. Forget the particle board desk that's already starting to chip. Try a roll top desk. They're great conversation pieces and fit in with any decor. Go for more decorative pieces for your desk organizers and even your trash can.Your home office is your home office. Don't try to copy the company pattern of function over style. Be your own home-office designer.
For more information on ideas for furniture, go to http://www.brighthub.com/office/home/articles/1877.aspx.