Tuesday, January 3, 2017

putting your home office to work


Residential real estate is one of those 24/7 careers, so being able to 'get the job done' at any time and place is critical to my clients' success. That's why I have three work areas - my office cubicle, my car, and my home office.

Each space is set up with the necessary forms, documents and templates needed, but my home office is where I do most of my work. It took me awhile to carve out the right spot for an office. Eeking out a home office can be a challenge, especially in a small house like mine. 


Once my youngest was old enough to move into her sister's bedroom, I converted the nursery (previously an attic space) into my office. I painted it a neutral off-white, added wainscoting for character, laid down carpet tiles, installed some shelving and tucked in a desk given to me by a client. It's the perfect cosy spot to work. 

With the foundation in place (desk and shelving), I added a computer, two printers - one with scan/fax capabilities, and a postage meter. I stocked up on heavy weight and copier paper, three sizes of envelopes, note cards and binders for all my forms and templates. Every year I take everything out, dust off what works and say good-bye to that which doesn't! It's a good process and helps me start fresh for the new year!

Have you been thinking about creating a home office? Whether it's to catch up on bill paying, write the next great novel, or summit the corporate ladder, having an organized work space at home is a wonderful tool and adds value to your home!

Some things to keep in mind when creating an office at home:

TINY IS A-OK
You don't need much square footage.
Any unused nook works well.

Convert an under utilized closet or that 'Harry Potter'
space under the stairs into a functioning office.
Think about taking over a corner (or an entire room) in your home.
A lot of people use their dining room - just remember to style it pretty
as you (and everyone else) will see it every time you walk by.

LIGHT IS KEY
Add a punch of color with your desk lamp.
If desk space is at a minimum consider wall sconces.
These just plug into a wall outlet - no electrician needed!

ADD A RUG
Use a rug to define the space, and add warmth and style.
Think of a rug like a tray - it grounds the collection above. 

TAKE A SEAT

Round out the room with a thoughtfully curated and oh-so comfortable chair. 

GO PRETTY
Use vintage items or things you collect to corral everyday tools like pens/pencils. 
And never underestimate the power of a small tray on the desktop!

GET VERTICAL
Small space means small desks. If you have limited
space to dedicate to a home office try going up. 
Maximize your desktop space by going vertical
- try stacked trays, a hanging shelf, or a mini ladder.

ADD ART
Bring personal expression to your space by adding art.

Etsy is a great source for personalized and instant downloadable prints.

MIX IN SOME LIFE
Add fresh flowers and a candle for beauty and movement!
Tuck a living plant in a corner (or a statute's head)!

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH LOVE
Whether it's a collection of framed family photos,
or a quirky collection of buttons,


or a sweet little something that makes you happy -
whatever it is, surround yourself with things you love. 
Next week I'll be writing about how to put your car to work! Whether for work, play, carting kids around or just the simple pleasure of knowing - 'you got this'!

Until next time,

la chasse au bonheur
translated this means - 'the hunt for happiness'

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