Will we all be working from home in 2022… No. Will more people than ever be working from home… almost certainly Yes.
At the peak in the spring of 2020, some 60% of total working hours in America were conducted from people’s living rooms, kitchens and, for the lucky few, home offices.
Adjusting to the new regime was not easy for everyone—especially those living in small apartments, or with children to home-school. Yet, on average, workers report higher levels of satisfaction and happiness. Respondents to surveys suggest that they would like to work from home nearly 50% of the time.
All across the country, homeowners have been converting garages and spare bedrooms into offices, or forcing rooms to do double-duty.
In the new construction market, builders are offering packages that include built-in workstations and cabinetry, an upgraded electrical package, ultra-high-speed USB outlets, charging outlets and additional data connections on the desktop, custom lighting, additional windows, soundproofing, and a beverage center. Additional options can include a half bath, and doors that go directly outside the house.
What can you do to make your workspace work for you?
This elegant and spare office in Cockeysville was part of the initial design of the home. It is conveniently located just off the foyer, with French doors the can be closed for quiet and privacy.
One of our favorites from several years ago, this opulent Guilford office has hardwood shelving, deep windowsills, custom painted ceiling and private powder room.
If you have a lot of books and office supplies, consider closed shelving to keep things organized and out of sight.
This small sunroom became a perfect place for the home office. Research shows that there is a strong relationship between workplace daylight exposure and office workers' sleep, activity, and quality of life.
Having a window in the workplace is the best, but if the lower level is your only option, make sure that you have enough lighting. As we enter winter, many people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, which can be helped with a light therapy lamp.
Do you need to share space with your spouse or kids? A built-in like what you see in these two family rooms, gives you a separate workspace while supervising the family. Noise cancelling headphones recommended!!!
Most of all, if you are going to be spending a lot of time in your home office, take the time to make it your own. Paint it your favorite color. Choose a comfortable desk and chair (standing desks are very popular right now) and decorate it with some of your favorite things.
And if you’re looking to upsize in the spring, call us. We have some upcoming listings that include amazing home offices!
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