Issue 34 February/March 2010

 
Creating a space for your home office doesn't have to be a bore; we take you inside two office spaces to find real life inspiration for setting yourself up at home.
 
 

Creating a work space can be a difficult task. The space needs to be functional enough to ensure that your productivity is high, but inspirational enough to ensure you want to spend time in it. 
 
Each office space will be different depending on individual needs and vary in location from above the garage, to a converted spare room, to completely separate from your home. But no matter where you set up office, there are key things to think about to ensure it works the best it can for you! 
 
Good luck with creating your space and remember that it needs to conform to your needs and work effectively with and not against you. Take inspiration from the real offices we take you into over the page, and bring some fun elements into your space with our finishing touches products and home project ideas.
 
Look
Before doing anything else, it is important to define in your own mind what you want your space to say about you and your work. Once you have a style or look identified then you can go about investing and bringing in things to the space. Colours and styles should complement each other and operate as a whole. Your space should encourage ideas to flow, work to be done and be a calm and comfortable setting.
 
Furniture
How much you have will depend on your space. Think about what your space is going to be used for. Will you entertain clients or have people visit? Your work desk and chair are key elements of any work space and time should be taken to ensure that they are the best ones for you. Investing in ergonomic furniture will ensure that you are comfortable for longer working periods and operating in a healthy work environment. 
 
Storage
Depending on your type of business storage can be a big issue. While you may want some things on display you will need a designated space for paperwork and stationery. Storage is simply limited by your imagination; traditional solutions are ideal for bigger items but upcycling old items like jars, tins and boxes can be a great way to bring personality into your space and de-clutter. 
 
Light 
Natural light is important not only to see, but to provide relief for the senses. A window will allow for fresh air to flow through and provide a space to pause at during intense work periods, giving your mind and eyes a break from the computer screen. A desk lamp and/or adequate ceiling light are important for darker days and night-time work so that your eyes aren't being strained unnecessarily. Ensure that the placement of your computer screen isn't impacted by your light sources.
 

Get the latest issue of homestyle to read more ideas on home offices. Available from supermarkets, book stores and magazine outlets nationwide.