If you’re new to remote work, you may need to set up a home office — and fast. If you don’t have an extra room, create a dual function space with your playroom, guest room, or living area. See how to set up a multipurpose space you’ll love.
Home Office/Playroom
Working from home affords you the opportunity to spend more time with your little ones. This multipurpose space will allow you to watch your kids while you work. To stay productive, separate your office area from your kids’ area. You may want to encourage your kids to do quiet activities, such as reading or doing homework, while you work.
On the kids’ side, add plenty of storage to keep the space organized. You can add wicker baskets and colorful containers to store supplies and toys. Use a bookcase to separate the play area from your office. Decorate this area with bright art, a galley wall, and temporary wall decals. See how Invitation Homes Design Expert Meghan Giddens and Jessica McRae, Co-founder of SwatchPop!, designed a playroom for the Living Room Makeover.
On the home office side, make sure you have enough space to work. If possible, set up your desk where it’s facing a window. If you don’t have a window, stack shelves above your desk and fill them with plants and art. Then add extra lighting with floor lamps or desk lamps.
Home Office/Guest Room
If you already have a guest room, add a space where you can work. For this area, it’s best to use neutral, earthy colors. Add plants to bring life into the space. Use a glass desk to keep the space open and inviting. Make sure your office supplies (stapler, files, pencil cups, etc.) blend in with the room’s décor. Use a rug to separate the two spaces. For more inspiration, see how Brittni Mehlhoff of Paper + Stitch decorated a guest room/office for the Make it Home Show House.
Home Office/Living Area
If you don’t have a guest room or playroom, create a work space in your living area. Use a nook or passageway to set up a place for your computer. Add some lamps, art, and a hanging plant to spruce up the space. If you have shelves in your living room, use them for office materials such as a clock and stylish stationery.
New Home Office
If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room, turn it into a home office. Pick colors that make you feel calm but inspired. Choose a spacious desk that makes you feel like working. And most importantly, buy a comfortable chair. You’ll spend hours sitting in this chair, so it needs to work for you.
The rest of the décor is up to you, and you can add to it over time. Find artwork you love. Create a gallery wall to showcase your favorite memories. See more about making a galley wall, and adding thrift store finds, here .
You can also change your room arrangements. If your child has moved out, turn their bedroom into a home office. If you haven’t had overnight guests in years, turn that room into an office. Change things up as often as you’d like – you can always change it again later.