Home Office Design

by H. Iacobacci-Miller

If you're like many people these days, you need some type of home office space. Having a home office is no longer just for those working from home. A home office is the ideal space for conducting personal business like paying bills, researching the internet, as well as providing storage for things like files, pens, and paper. It also provides a perfect workspace for children to study and do their homework.

With this in mind, the problem becomes finding a space for your home office. You don't have to use up an entire room for an office that looks - well - like an office. Home offices can be workspaces tucked away in a large closet, writing desks nestled in the kitchen or in the corner of your family room or guest bedroom. There are a multitude of workspace options to choose from so don't box yourself into the conventional office arrangement. For your home office, keep in mind both Style and Function.

Before getting started on your home office, there area few things to consider in regards to the function:

• What is the purpose of the space - how will it be used.
  
• Where will your home office fit - take a look around with an open mind and you might be surprised at where a home office can fit.
  
• Who will be using the space? If it's primarily your children, think about putting it in their room. If it's a family space, make it accessible for everyone.
  
• How often will the space be used - this can help you decide where to put your office. You don't want your family invading your bedroom just to send an email.
• Is there a telephone line and electrical outlet nearby? You don't want cords strewn across a floor. Not only is it not attractive, it's a potential hazard.
  

Once you have answered those questions, start thinking about design:

• Do you have the space for a full desk? If not, use a computer armoire to hide the office when not in use. Not only will it hide the potential desk clutter, it will be an added interest in any room.
  
• Will your space be in a high traffic area, like the kitchen or den? You want your office space to be an extension of your home. You don't want a contemporary desk in the corner of your traditional family room.
  
• How will you handle storage? Will shelves work or will you want to hide the workspace equipment when not in use?
  
• Don't forget proper lighting!! The use of task lighting can be a decorative statement as well as being functional.
  
• Do your best to hide those unsightly cords with conduit material or strategically placed accessories.
  
  

If you're looking to add a home office space, but don't have the budget to buy all new office equipment and furniture, look around your home for an unused table that can be converted into your new desk. Use lamps and other accessories from other rooms in your home to spruce up your office space. You don't have to buy all new items to have a beautiful, functional workspace.

The following are just a few online stores that we think you might enjoy. We have chosen them for their selection and value to fit any decorating style and budget.

American Blind and Wallpaper Factory - great source for nearly all of your home office decorating needs. They have everything from window dressings to artwork.

Spiegel.com - a great spot for finding the perfect accessories for your hoome office. They have a great selection of decorative lamps, artwork and desk accessories.

Ebay - try checking out Ebay for great deals on all your home office decorating needs. They have everything down to the computer itself.

HomeVisions.com - is another great source for furniture and accessories at great values.