Benefits of Having a Home Office: Productivity and Comfort in the Work-from-Home Era

The ability to work from home used to be a novelty, the need to work from home was critical to face the pandemic, and now, the benefits of remote work are becoming more apparent to employees and employers. Even after the return to in-person offices was safe, many employees and employers have embraced the work-from-home culture. To optimize productivity and comfort while working from home, a home office is becoming an attractive home improvement project to consider in every house.

Beautifully designed home office interior with shutter window light

Are There Long-Term Benefits to Working Remotely?

Although remote work wasn’t available to many until the pandemic, there are companies who have been offering their employees the opportunity for remote work for many years, as there are multiple benefits to working from home. Working from home allows employees to live a much healthier lifestyle. They avoid the office germs that can spread from employees working in close proximity to one another, often before employees even realize they are sick. Remote work stops that spread. Without commuting time, remote employees can also build healthier habits, such as incorporating exercise into their day and eating better meals during the work day. With the elimination of the commute, not only are there benefits to the environment, but employees gain back that time and can find a good work/life balance. Remote workers experience less stress, which improves overall health, productivity, and morale.

Although many employers worry that employees will not be as productive when they are working remotely as opposed to an office setting, many studies have found the opposite to be true. Remote employees have more control over their days and can more easily avoid distractions, particularly if they have a dedicated workspace in their home. With optimized tools incorporated into a home office renovation, employees can be focused and productive during their workday.

Do You Need a Home Office to Work from Home Effectively?

Although the benefits to remote work are great, there are some potential drawbacks. Although office distractions are eliminated, there are new distractions to contend with. Working remotely can blur the line between “work” and “home”, causing workers to actually work longer hours. TV, family members, and chores around the house can be a distraction. All of these drawbacks can be countered with a dedicated home office.

If remote work is your reality, there are several reasons that a home office, rather than just working from a shared communal space such as a dining room, family room, or bedroom, is the right choice. A home office provides many benefits:

  • A home office eliminates the blurred line between work and home.

When you have a home office, you have a space that is dedicated to your job. When you are in that space, you are “at work”. You can close the door to distractions that may be present in the rest of your house. At the end of your workday, you can leave that space and consider yourself “home”. Work stays in the office, allowing for a clear delineation of your time.

  • A home office can be outfitted with the right tools for productivity.

Home WiFi, a mobile phone, and a laptop can allow you to get your work done from anywhere, but a dedicated space will allow you a place for all the tools you need to be the most productive. Having a home office can give you the space you need to stay organized and focused. Standing desks and plenty of space for electronic equipment can help you get your work done well.

  • A home office allows you to work without disturbing others.

If there are other family members home during the day, especially children, you need a dedicated space where you can take phone calls or web meetings without taking over the entire house.

Home Improvement Ideas for Your Home Office Renovation

There are several options for your home office renovation.

  • Convert an infrequently used space, such as a guest room, formal living room, or dining room into a home office.

Some of these renovations are easier than others. When converting a bedroom, a minor renovation to optimize the space for the new furniture and office equipment may be all you need. For other rooms, bigger home improvement projects may be necessary. One of the most important things in a home office is the ability to close a door to the rest of the house. While some formal dining and living rooms have doors already, other spaces may need a professional to install French or sliding doors to allow distinction between the office and the main living space.

  • Convert an unfinished attic or basement into a home office.

This home improvement is more in depth than simply making use of an existing room, but this home office renovation can be accomplished with a trusted local home improvement contractor. Your contractor can look at the unfinished space and help you design the best way to convert it into a dedicated workspace.

  • Build an addition to serve as your home office.

This home office renovation is the most involved, the most expensive, and the most permanent way to create a home office. If you know your remote work is a permanent situation and you are looking to expand your home rather than converting an existing space, it can be a good investment. Many homebuyers are actively seeking homes with home office spaces, and an addition that will serve a home office can add much needed square footage to your home. If you know you will need to go this route, you’ll want to speak with a contractor about a plan and budget for this home improvement project.

Having a dedicated home office space will make your remote work easier and increase the overall value of your home. If you are working remotely and are ready for a home office renovation, contact All-Nu Construction to learn about how we can help.