The Work from Home Revolution is Here to Stay

The work-from-home, also known as WFH, revolution is here to stay, and it has changed our lives in ways we have never imagined. Employees across industries find themselves quickly adjusting to the new normal of working remotely in their own homes. With this shift comes the need for well-designed home office spaces that are comfortable and productive. Spending less time in a “real” office and more time working from home has led to a huge need for actual home office space. Setting up the laptop at the kitchen island or dining room table just doesn’t cut it; awkward Zoom call interruptions must stop, kids and pets!

Working from home is no longer a luxury afforded to a few, but now a common occurrence. With the success of the great work-from-home experiment of 2020, many companies are re-evaluating the return-to-the-office strategy. In 2020, many workers had a new set of challenges when they suddenly found themselves creating office space within the constraints of their current living spaces. For example, Zoom meetings prompt you to search for suitable backgrounds; the bathroom may have privacy for an important call, but is the shower curtain the best backdrop for a camera-on meeting?

Clever homeowners transformed underused spaces such as garages and closets into makeshift offices. But these temporary spaces have their drawbacks due to less-than-optimal organization, lack of privacy and constant distractions.

When we are remodeling for a client with home office needs, we can easily turn a lesser-used space into a permanent office. That large hall closet or the unused walk-in closet in your home could make a great “cloffice.” Yet, when the garage or closet no longer served, our clients learned they usually prefer a designated room that allows separation of work and home life and a door you can close. Repurposing a guest bedroom and converting a little-used nook/loft area are some conversions we’ve tackled.

This is the best solution, because we can then outfit the new office with custom-built-ins, cabinetry and all the best amenities of a cushy corner office. Often, home plans now include two office spaces for adult use and one school or study room for kids.

The home office trend will continue to dominate into 2024 and beyond. Of course, you already know you need a comfortable chair and desk, plenty of file storage and the best WiFi possible in your WFH space. So, I’m not going to tell you that. But if you’re ready to upgrade your home office into that cushy-but-cozy and properly outfitted corner office feel, keep reading.

Proper Furniture Placement and Window Coverings
Does the glare of the sun interrupt your Zoom calls? It’s best to place your desk facing a window rather than having the window behind you. This will make you look great on camera, and it’s pleasant to look out the window while you’re working. Sometimes, though, your home office’s space plan will not allow you to face the window. The next best solution is proper window coverings.
If you do a lot of video calling or simply find yourself squinting past the glare as you type, you would greatly benefit from a Roman shade with or without a blackout liner. For more style, we could add drapery panels, even if they are just stationary. This creates a luxurious layering effect that doesn’t feel stuffy.

Sound Absorption
Does the echo affect your Zoom meetings? An echo can happen when there are too many hard surfaces such as wood flooring, blank walls, sleek desktop surfaces and taller ceilings.

To counteract the dreaded echo, add an area rug on your hard surface flooring. Include decorative large-format artwork on the walls. Use paint designed for sound absorption. Include drapery or shades on windows; it’s repetitious, but it is that important.

Become One with Nature
While you’re gazing out the window from your properly placed desk, you might have the urge to go for a walk, and we encourage you to during your break. But adding natural elements to your design will keep you from going stir crazy in your WFH office. Soothing materials to nature-inspired hues can inspire calm and lift spirits. Wood elements, natural fibers and earthy patterns and palettes in your home office will have a strong emotional impact on you. Small things can have a subtle impact, such as a water fountain, live plants, a wool rug and soothing colors.

In this office space, nature-inspired hues in a mixture of tonalities of grays and beige were selected. These hues are usually considered to be friendly, soothing and inviting. The natural wood surfaces of the desk bring in a woodsy element.
In this office space, a gorgeous deep green was used, which is heavily associated with nature. It triggers a sense of comfort and calm. The green mixed with gold feels elegant.

At the end of the day, what is most important is creating an office space that works for you. So don’t be afraid to get creative with your design and have fun with it! There has never been a better time to create the perfect home office that will help keep productivity and spirits high.

If you need help transforming your space into a fully functional home office, don’t hesitate to reach out and consult with an interior design professional. They will be able to provide guidance on the most suitable designs for your needs and make sure you create a workspace that helps keep the work flowing!

Before becoming an interior designer, Kathleen Jennison worked as certified public accountant for a national firm. A near-fatal car accident changed her career path and life forever. She suffered serious brain injuries, and her doctors suggested she take art classes to help with her rehabilitation. With her newfound love for design, she studied at the Art Institute in Sacramento, obtaining her bachelor’s degree in interior design. She is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers and has served as the director of marketing for the National Association of Remodelers for the Greater Sacramento area. In 2009, she started KTJ Design Company.