January 25, 2008

Creating a Home Office Haven

By Kate Davey
Special to the Times

Whether you work from home or just need a quiet spot to balance your budget, an efficient workspace makes the tasks much easier. When it's comfortable and attractive too, all the better! Now, how do you set up - or makeover - your home office to create your ideal setting?

Choose the right space. Think "location, location, location." Pick an area that fits your needs.

• Maximize privacy and minimize noise with a dedicated office in a spare bedroom, converted den, or improved attic space.

• Don't have an extra room but need to be out of high traffic areas? Carve out space at the end of a hallway or beneath a stairwell.

• Sharing space and indifferent to household noise? Reserve a corner of the kitchen, dining room or family room. Use a decorative screen or potted plants to create separation. Pump up the comfort. Before your office can be a haven, it must first be comfortable and user-friendly. Therefore, as you design your space:

• Invest in an ergonomic chair and choose a work surface with a "reach radius" that puts frequently used items within arm's length.

• Set up shop with enough furniture and storage to be efficient without being crowded. If space is tight, outfit an armoire or opt for a compact workstation.

• Select a window spot, if you can, for fresh air and natural light. Improve ventilation with a ceiling fan. And use soft ambient and task lighting to reduce eyestrain and glare. Add personal touches. Bring in the comforts of home and infuse your style. Why not add:

• A comfy sofa or futon if there's room.

• Personal mementos, favorite prints or photos.

• A music system or a tranquil, attractive aquarium.

However you decide to outfit your office, make it a pleasant place to work. Get a jump start with these tips!

Kate Davey & Associates offers a full array of Real Estate Services and information on every facet of the Real Estate Industry. From Selling to Buying a Home or from Home Improvement to Home Safety, Kate Davey & Associates provides a full concierge service. If you have a specific question, please call Kate at 408-497-5283 or email your question to: info@katedaveyteam.com.