Day NINE of 21 Days to create your sacred space , from CHAOS to a HOME oasis
WORK AT HOME / DEFINED SPACE
“START WHERE YOU ARE , USE WHAT YOU HAVE , DO WHAT YOU CAN .” arthur ashe
To work at HOME or not to work at home that is the question , but WHERE ?
The subject of working at home or rather having to work at home is top of mind for many. As an interior designer it is front and foremost . How to create a space that is both comfortable, practical, adaptable and conducive to creativity is the question I seek to answer .
We have had a seismic shift in how we live and work in the last few years. Our homes, once primarily spaces of rest and socializing, suddenly had to accommodate every aspect of living . The workspace for adults, where ever was possible was the first order of the day . If you were a growing family the school room was relocated to the sofa or kitchen table. This transformation was deeply challenging for those of us living in cities, where space is always at a premium.
The pandemic work at home model became the new norm. City dwellers, particularly in densely populated areas like Manhattan, began to reevaluate their living situations. The idea that the pandemic might never end prompted a mass exodus from the city, with people moving to places where space was more abundant, and as long as there was a reliable Wi-Fi connection, work could continue uninterrupted.
The incentives to move upstate , to long island or as far as the midwest , where too good to resist. It was not even a consideration for this New Yorker. For those of us who stayed, there were unexpected advantages . With fewer people in the city, the ever present noise levels dropped significantly. Suddenly, the constant hum of traffic and the usual city sounds were replaced by something surprising: the sounds of birds. It was a revelation to discover that there were more birds than just pigeons. This quieter, less crowded version of the city offered a new appreciation for urban life. I do still miss those birds.
Now we have to ask ourselves where do we want to work and how can we have a life in our home and work at the same time ?
Most of us have a few jobs not just one. If there is an option to carve a space at home to earn more money why not consider that possibility ? When I dove a bit deeper to see the numbers of how many people do work at home the numbers as I expected were quite high.
WORK STATS
82% of U.S. employees want to work remotely at least once a week . On average, they would prefer to do so half of the time.
19% said they would like to telecommute full-time. The balance would prefer to work a hybrid-remote schedule.
35% of employees would change jobs for the opportunity to work remotely full time 47% of Millennials , 31% of boomers; 37% would do so to work remotely some of the time (50% of Millennials and 33% of Boomers)
Now this hybrid work model is changing yet again with the demand for workers to return to office spaces . The office model has now been adapted to look more like a home. I personally prefer the look and design of modern office furniture . Quite often I would specify something from vendors like Keilhauer or Global furniture for a residential project . All the lines started to blur .
I remember when the Poppin collection first made an appearance in the market . They introduced a collection of modular colorful office furniture that is adaptable for both the home and office was so ahead of its time . Color was the answer as it provides an instant infusion of energy in an otherwise drab corporate grey environment. I have included the pink seating unit with side panels for privacy that is a great solution for sound absorption and couch potato work sessions. It is currently on sale from the web site. The desk top accessories were last sighted in of all places Target.
The key word is MODULAR design. How to create something that can be repeated and adapted in a multitude of ways . Creating a functional workspace at home is essential in today’s work-from-home culture. The location of your workspace plays a crucial role in ensuring it supports both productivity and well-being.
When choosing a spot, consider a location that balances focus and comfort without dominating your living space. Workspace should be positioned where natural light is abundant, as it boosts mood and energy levels. However, avoid high-traffic areas that may lead to distractions. Ideally, your workspace should be in a quiet corner or a separate room, allowing you to mentally switch between work and home life.
It’s important that your workspace doesn’t overpower your living space. A bulky desk or excessive office equipment can create a cluttered, stressful environment. Instead, opt for a minimalist design that integrates seamlessly with your existing decor. Floating shelves, compact desks, or even a well-organized closet can be transformed into a functional workspace.
Remember, your home should still feel like home.
By thoughtfully selecting and designing your workspace, you can carve out a productive area that supports your work needs without compromising your well-being or the overall harmony of your living environment.
In terms of what room to carve your workspace I always recommend that it NOT be in your bedroom. It is always disarming to have a view of someone’s bed especially when it is not made. The kitchen is another space that is far too distracting when on Zoom calls. The backgrounds have gotten better however there is a bit of shadowing that is always distracting . Blurring the background for all zoom calls is a requirement.
One funny story , I was in a Zoom meeting and this woman was having a challenging time having her child interrupt her as she was speaking . All at once the pristine loft background gave way to a kitchen space that was incomplete disarray. My heart broke for this mother. She quickly excused herself and disappeared from the call. Everytime I see that type of back drop it made me wonder , what was behind the curtain or the far too perfect interior that felt a bit off.
I now return to my soap box, the reason the bedroom is not ideal and actually harmful is that it will affect the quality of your sleep. The computer screen emits a blue light which directly affects how long you require to fall asleep. We all know that especially on our iphones we should program the blue light to dim no less than an hour before we plan to sleep. The light inhibits the melatonin hormone directly and powerfully . Not to mention the stress factor of having that reminder of work on your pillow. The list you never completed that seems to get longer from midnight to six am.
If there is no other choice then it is imperative to close the area . This can be accomplished easily with a drapery, sliding panel or better yet a closet door that can be closed completely. There is always a way to figure out the space.
The concepts for space planning in the Pinterest board I am sharing below is filled with ideas. So often clients complain they have no space in their apartment . The Biniti Adjustable floating desk is the simplest most elegant way to engage any wall. I especially appreciate the way the height is adjustable. There is no connection to this company as an affiliate . If it works for you then great , mission accomplished. It is featured on Wayfair SKU:W001643684
The checklist below includes all the elements of a workspace . It is created as a guide complete with a few suggestions . There is a special offer at the very end . See you at the water cooler .
A to Z essential workspace checklist
A. Desk
Choose a compact, functional desk that fits the space
Consider an adjustable desk so you are not seated the entire time
Smaller desktop units that can be added to any surface and adjust to desired height
Use a monitor stand, keyboard tray, or footrest for ergonomic setup
Consider anti-fatigue mats if standing desks are used
Instant desk idea : purchase two file cabinets and a hollow door Instant desk
Dining tables as a desk and purchase rolling file cabinet to set under the table
Closet office is best in a home if you can afford to give up the space , more details on how to configure in the links below
Consider a vintage desk as it has more character and always plenty of storage
B. Chair
Select an ergonomic chair for comfort and support
If you are utilizing a dining chair place a pillow across the back to support your spine . It makes a big difference
Wheels are better for adaptability in the space
C. Multi-Functional Furniture /Storage Solutions
Use floating shelves or wall-mounted cabinets to save floor space
Opt for desks with built-in storage or drawers
Only place what you utilize daily by your desk / long term storage can be placed in another location especially is space is a challenge
Utilize furniture that provides storage such as ottomans like ottomans or benches with hidden compartments
Consider desks with fold-out or expandable features
Use room dividers or plants to create a sense of separation
D. Lighting
Use task lighting, such as a desk lamp, to reduce eye strain
Ensure adequate ambient lighting for the overall area
Overhead Lighting: Use soft, diffused overhead lights to reduce shadows
Include additional lighting for Zoom calls Ring Lights: Consider using a ring light for consistent and flattering lighting
E. Tech Equipment / Microphone / Headphones
Laptop or desktop computer, tablet
Printer, scanner, or other peripherals that are more compact
Microphones help with external noise reduction
Headphones help with sound attenuation
F. Organizing Cables
Use cable management solutions like clips, sleeves, or trays
Ensure cables are neatly routed and easily accessible
Label all cables in the event you need to change work locations saves alot of time
G. Storing Supplies and Documents
Use file organizers, magazine holders, or desk trays
Store less frequently used items in closed cabinets or boxes
H. Placement to power outlets
Ensure the desk is near enough to power outlets for all necessary devices
Use surge protectors and extension cords if needed but carefully
Consider power strips mounted under the desk so not visible
I. Natural Light
Position the desk near a window for natural light, but avoid direct glare on screens
Use blinds or curtains to control light levels
NEVER position yourself in front of a window always to the side
J. Your unique expression
Add personal items like photos, plants, or artwork to make the workspace inviting
Ensure decor complements the living room aesthetic
Include a visible calendar for planning and a clock in view for meetings
Inspirational materials that you change weekly adds a refresh button
K. Multi purpose within a living space
Modular furniture that can be reconfigured as required
A desk that can double as a console or dining table
Always have every piece of furniture do more than one thing
Use rolling carts and wheels for flexibility
Consider foldable or collapsible furniture to save space
Consider drapery panels from the ceiling to delineate the space
Nesting tables or chair that can fold and stack are best
Furniture that conceals the workspace completely
L. Sound Attenuation
Importance of minimizing background noise for clear audio
Techniques and materials for soundproofing and improving acoustics
M. Soundproofing Materials / Recommendations
Acoustic Panels: Install on walls to absorb sound and reduce echo
Artwork / Paintings that are made of sound absorption materials /
Soundproof Curtains: Heavy, dense curtains to block external noise
Carpeting and Rugs: Use to dampen sound and reduce reverberation
N. Layout / Sound attenuation
Use bookshelves and soft furnishings (e.g., sofas, cushions) to absorb sound
Arrange furniture to create a buffer between the workspace and noisy areas
Use a white noise machine or background music to mask external sounds
Consider a door sweep or weather stripping to block gaps and reduce noise leakage
O. Comfort is KEY / Environment Enhancements
Ensure good ventilation and comfortable room temperature
Consider a fan on your desktop as computers give off a good deal of heat
A to O almost to Z
SPECIAL OFFER
Do know if you have a specific challenge in your home creating a functional workspace please send me photos and measurements to my email studio@depoledesign.com . Mark the subject “ HOME WORK “ . I will share a few simple solutions you can employ to remedy the situation. There is never just one way to solve a spatial problem .
To speak about visual ideas you have to view them so I created a special pinterest board to inspire ideas and solutions to create a comfortable, efficient workspace.
This post is part of our ongoing series where we explore daily steps to create a space that truly feels like your own personal retreat. If you’re new to the series or need a refresher, start from the beginning to catch up on the foundational steps. Each day builds on the last, so be sure to follow along for a complete transformation!
https://kimdepole.substack.com/p/day-one-of-21-days-to-create-your