Working from home has become the norm over the past twelve months, with the Covid-19 pandemic resulting in the closure of many offices and business buildings and the majority of deals being done from the comfort of our own abodes.
For some, however, ‘comfort’ isn’t quite the word that springs to mind, and if you don’t currently have a dedicated home office space where you can work in peace, you might well be growing tired of your kitchen table or dining room set up and having to contend with noise from your partner and kids.
All of that does not a productive environment make, but with the current situation we may be in it for the long-haul, so it might be time to consider converting a room of your home to give you the quiet space you need to get things done.
Home working was already on the increase prior to the start of the pandemic, with around 375,000 more employees working in such a way than ten years earlier – but that number has, for obvious reasons, since sky-rocketed. Employers, it seems, are becoming increasingly aware of the fact that allowing employees the extra comfort of not having to contend with the daily commute can result in greater retention and productivity – so it’s looking unlikely that, once all of this is over, we’ll revert to our previous in-office set-up.
So, to set you up for success, it’s time to create the home office of your dreams – and your loft could be just the place to get some much-needed privacy in a secluded area away from distractions.
If yours is currently filled with old belongings and has a long way to go before it can become usable, then worry not – because converting it could be easier than you think. Take a look at these four top tips before you start, courtesy of loft conversion experts Touchstone Lofts, and you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labour sooner rather than later.
Make the most of your space
The perfect office should be comfortable and spacious; a cramped set-up does not make for a productive environment, so you’ll want to ensure you’re making the most of the room. Where slanted roofs and beams are concerned, this can prove something of a challenge – but the good news is, it’s entirely doable.
Begin by determining the optimum place for your desk and chair, which will be the most important feature of the room – the rest can be designed around it. You’ll need plenty of light and a good amount of headspace to avoid any nasty bumps when you get up to go and grab another coffee.
Maximise any unused space in the room with bespoke storage solutions that can be built to fit your requirements and will keep your office tidy of any clutter – another factor that can detract hugely from productivity and add unnecessary stress to your day.
Let there be light
To allow as much natural light as possible into the room, opt for a skylight window overhead. Sunlight is crucial when it comes to having the energy to make it through the working day – and artificial light just won’t cut it when it comes to mood-boosting benefits.
If your loft is vast, then opt for multiple roof windows so that the entire space is flooded with natural light. House plants will thrive in such an environment, so place some around the room to improve air quality and add a nice touch to the aesthetics, too.
The right windows for the job
So the fact that you’ll need roof windows is a given – but how do you know which to choose? Take your time to research all of the options available and opt for the easiest to install and operate option that will be in-keeping with the overall look and feel you’re hoping to create in your loft conversion.
For example, if you’re after a window that you can easily throw open to let in some fresh air while seated at your desk, then choose one that features a handle at the bottom. For added security and peace of mind, choose windows that lock tightly, with reinforced handles and keep-plate hinges.
Add some home comforts
Although your desk is going to be the most important element of your home office loft conversion, having a comfortable space in which to take tea breaks without descending into the madness of the home-schooling going on downstairs will help you to relax and refresh while staying in the right headspace to continue on with your working day.
Adding a sofa and a coffee table and a bookshelf featuring some of your favourite reads will make for a great nook in which to take some time out, and accessorising with a vase of fresh cut flowers or hanging some art on the wall will add character, charm and personality to the room.
From loft to home office, converting this disused space couldn’t be easier, and your dream work set-up could soon be yours. So, get yourself prepared for a more productive 2021!
