With more people working and studying from home, and widespread net usage, the office is an increasingly central part of the house. Primary to determining your home office is working out what you want to use it for - getting the layout, lighting and furnishings right are important to your comfort, safety and work performance. Follow our step-by-step guide to creating a functional and user-friendly home office.
Lighting and electricals
An electrician may be needed early in the project to install extra lights, switches and outlets.
Decide on all fittings in consultation with your electrician, after an initial inspection/discussion.
If upgrading office communications or computer systems and require extra phone plugs or broadband access, schedule service calls from your telecommunications provider and computer consultant.
Painting and other finishes
Painting is a short, simple job performed late in the piece.
For painting shelves, use gloss paint or lacquer.
Allow time for paint to dry before installing carpet, furnishings, computer systems and office equipment.
Furnishings and fittings
Will you be buying your home office furniture as a package or piece by piece? Package deals can be cheaper than buying components separately, if you can negotiate one that suits your needs.
If sourcing furnishings/fittings yourself, consult home office experts to ensure everything's ergonomically sound and suitable for the intended usage/users.
Measure your office area and desk surface carefully to be sure all components fit in the space.
Building and carpentry
If structural alterations are required, call in a licensed builder at the beginning to coordinate this work. Prior consultation ensures proposed alterations are feasible and legal.
A carpenter may be needed to resite doors, walls or windows, build and install desks/shelving/storage and/or mezzanine areas. Order imported or custom-built cabinetry/desks/fittings at least two months ahead.
You should allow extra time for any structural work in case of unforeseen delays.
Flooring
If sanding or polishing floors do this after the structural work and painting is completed (dust can stick to newly painted surfaces). Keep computers and equipment away while sanding.
If re-carpeting, order around a month in advance. You should schedule carpet-laying after structural work AND painting are complete.
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