Finding space for a home office is just the first step in creating a useful space for a fledgling small business. It can be quite a challenge to design a room that needs to function as a work area, a client conference area and a mail room at different times during the day.
To be successful with home office design, take the time to lay the entire room out on paper or use a CAD program to create a virtual design. Once all the areas are clearly defined it is easy to decide how big furniture pieces for the office should be.
Begin With Storage Options
While everyone probably can tell a story about a small business owner who has towering piles of paper all over the office, but still can find any paper he or she needs to consult within seconds, setting up and using storage is critical for small business success. It only takes one client who trips into a paper pile to turn a system like this into complete chaos.
To create a functional home office, most home business owners should include these storage solutions in the office design:
- A filing cabinet, hanging files and folders. A filing cabinet may be a big, costly piece of furniture, but knowing where jobs to be invoiced are or being able to quickly gather all expense receipts at tax time makes this cabinet a great buy.
- A supply closet. Having a place to keep all supplies means that the business owner never has to waste money re-buying something because he or she can't locate it.
- A place to keep incoming and outgoing material, including postage scales and packing supplies. Usually, a simple library table or credenza with bins for different types of materials on top of it will meet this need.
Home Office Desk Options
The next thing anyone designing a home business office should consider is the desk area. While the trend for several years was to install a massive computer workstation/desk area, new advances in technology, such as small laptops and flat panel monitors, have made it possible for people to have both a computer and room for work space on a standard executive style desk.
A comfortable and supportive chair is also essential, especially if the business owner plans to spend long hours at the desk.
Lighting for a Home Office
Having good task lighting can reduce fatigue and help alleviate eye strain. Consider installing overhead lights as well as a desk lamp to be sure the office has adequate lighting. Keep natural light and problems with monitor glare in mind as the lights are installed.
Finally, don't forget specialized equipment or furniture the office may need. For example, a business owner who frequently consults with clients will want to install at least one comfortable and attractive guest chair and may also want to include a small kitchenette area so he or she can quickly provide visitors with a cup of coffee or a bottle of water.
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