What was once our refuge away from the outside world has turned into the workplace, gym, school, and entertainment center – all in one. Working from home is not a new concept. It has been around for many years, with changes in technology making it easier than ever before for people to avoid the commute and work remotely.
However, with Covid-19 (coronavirus) forcing many of us to work from home, it forces us to take another look at our environment, and how it can best suit these new functions.
That is not the only factor that comes into play with the new “norm” that we are experiencing right now. With more people successfully transitioning to “work at home” status, employers may begin to look more closely at the concept. Some companies may decide it is more economical to have many of their employees work remotely, cutting down on the office space and expenses. If ultimately it improves their bottom line, more people may find this concept permanent.
Whether you are working from home only during the coronavirus pandemic, or permanently, now is the time to take a new look at how to make your home/work/school/gym/entertainment space function best for you.
Transforming Your Space to Maximize Working from Home
From desks to chairs, computer monitors to keyboards, office supplies, and technology sales skyrocketed in March. With more people working from home, carving out that niche to “get the job done” became crucial.
We have no idea how long this pandemic will last. While some states are starting to relax some restrictions, only time will tell if that is safe or if the COVID-19 numbers will again begin to rise. What you might have expected to last only a month or two could even stretch longer than a year, depending on herd immunity and vaccine development. Take a look around – will your current home design accommodate your work, your child’s schooling, the need to exercise, and finding a quiet place to unwind and recharge?
Today, interior designers are focusing on working solutions for the many people who must now learn how to work from home. We are taking a new look at closets that can transform into an office. Is there an under-stairs space that we can utilize for a desk, home-gym, or even a classroom for the kids? Underutilized spaces are now the focus of storage, productivity, and function.
The design trend for many years has been one of open spaces. While that is great for the flow of the home, it is not as convenient when the kids are in a zoom classroom, and both mom and dad have zoom meetings to attend at the same time. Where does everyone find that quiet space to work? How can we reconfigure the home to improve functionality?
Many families have set up their workstations on the dining room table. Mom and dad at their computers while the kids do their schoolwork. Zoom meetings may be taken in the bedroom, on the patio, or in the kitchen. We see this every day on the many talk shows coming to us from the hosts’ homes. Not only are we getting a look into the personal lives of many celebrities, but we are also getting ideas about how to make working at home work for us.
Organization and Planning – the Keys to Promoting Work at Home Productivity
Whether we are working together with others in our home, or alone in our social distancing, organization and planning are the keys to productivity.
Cleverly designed storage options help conceal household and personal items that you do not want on display as part of your “workday life.” Simplifying your workspace, and having everything you need at your fingertips without feeling as though you are surrounded by clutter and disorganization are crucial.
Home lighting is another issue we must discuss, as it often will not meet the needs of working from home. Some options to discuss including overhead lighting, floor lamps, and desktop or table lamps.
Whatever you do to make your space livable and workable is crucial so that you can live and work stress-free. Your home is still your haven – your safe place to unwind. If you are now working from home for the first time, you may have a difficult time separating your work and home life.
Taking a fresh look at your home’s layout and design can help us transform your space into one where every person has his or her “special place.” At HK Interiors, we understand the strange and trying times people are facing. It is our goal to simplify life by creating a more efficient flow and provide the solutions you seek.
We are here to help you while maintaining the safe space we all need. Call HK Interiors today at 954-401-8542 for more information.