About a third of Americans are working from home due to the coronavirus. The technology has been around for many years, but it has taken a pandemic to make this change happen. While some businesses are slowly bringing back their employees, others are keeping them home, at least for a while. In fact, many working Americans are hoping to continue this trend.
One of the biggest challenges with working from home, however, is not having a dedicated work space. It’s important to keep your work and home life separated so that they don’t spill over and negatively affect one another. This is why a home office is essential when you’re working remotely.
What are the Benefits of Having a Home Office?
Having a dedicated work space is important for your mental health. Even though you may love what you do, carrying around your computer from room to room can break your train of thought and cause you to work longer hours than necessary. Instead, it’s best to set up a space where you’ll work. You may even be able to write this space off as a tax deduction!
Here are some benefits to expect from having a dedicated home office:
- Improved productivity
- Reduced distractions
- Comfortable environment
- Disciplined work schedule
- Separate work/home life
Ideas for Creating a Home Office
So what happens if you don’t have any space to make a home office? Rather than turning your kitchen table into a desk or your living room into a place for Zoom calls, why not build a home office of your own? It’s a great investment that will pay off in the long run – and you can use this space for other things down the line (i.e., hobby room, yoga studio, workshop).
Here are some ideas on how to build a professional, spacious home office.
Convert your attic
If your home has an attic, it’s possible that this space can be converted into a cozy home office. You’ll likely need to work with a home remodeling company to put in flooring, walls, energy efficient windows and electric.
Kavin Construction can handle all of this under one roof. We’ve done simple attic construction projects with floors, walls and windows, as well as complex ones with built-shelving, wall benches and bookcases. We also recommend a video doorbell and excellent WiFi coverage for attic offices.
Revamp your garage
A popular idea in California is to convert garages into flex spaces. These spaces can be used for anything, including a home office. Plus, the climate is warm enough to keep garages comfortable year-round. A home renovation company will work with you to ensure you have everything you need to do your job comfortably – lighting, walls, insulation, windows, flooring, etc.
As a matter of fact, new California laws allow garages to be converted into Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), which are ultimately guest houses. If you convert your garage into an ADU, you can use it as a home office, rent it out in the future and sell your home for more.
Build an addition
If your home is small and doesn’t have much to work with, you may have no choice but to build an addition. Additions make sense when you like where you live and have no desire to move. They can be more affordable than relocating, too. The best part is that you can pick all the features you want to do your job effectively – separate doors, recessed lighting, a sitting area for customers, etc.
Construct a shed
Some people like the idea of building a shed because they don’t have to work inside the home. This creates separation between their home and work lives. Sheds are highly customizable and can be built according to your exact needs – down to the roof, siding and windows.
To learn more about adding a home office to your property, contact Kavin Construction today. We can handle the entire project from start to finish and ensure you get the office you deserve. This is one investment that will offer rewards today and in the future.
