A Guide to Transforming your garage into a home office
The number of people working from home has risen dramatically in recent years. The World Economic Forum explains that COVID-19 increased telecommuting. Advances in the internet and mobile tech have also helped, making it easier to collaborate across distances.
When working from home, it's important to have a separate area where you can concentrate. One option is to convert a garage into an office. If your current house doesn't have a garage, it may be time to upgrade (hint, head to the Homes for Sale page and check out my latest listings!)
Once you have your new property, you can follow the steps outlined below to transform the garage into the perfect home office.
Take care of essential remodeling for safety and comfort
Garages are generally used to house vehicles and for storage. Before you begin, you have to clear out the clutter and make room for remodeling. Also, make sure to thoroughly clean the garage; for example, oil or gasoline spills can be a fire hazard and should be cleaned.
Once the space is cleaned out, you will have a better idea of how you can remodel it into a suitable workspace. Bob Vila provides a list of basic renovation steps you'll need to address to create a livable area. You may need to have additional electrical wiring installed, add insulation for temperature regulation, and add ventilation.
You may also want to add windows as part of the renovation. Natural light is a big boon in an office setting. The Harvard Business Review explains that sunlight enhances concentration and can boost productivity. Offices with sufficient light are also associated with improved worker health and wellness.
It's worth investing in these renovations. Done right, they can increase property value and allow you to command a higher price if you sell the house later. Redfin explains how to boost appraisal value and suggests considering what buyers want, including coveted assets like hardwood floors. Take before and after photos of the remodeling to show potential buyers.
Invest in ergonomic office furniture for enhanced comfort
With the remodeling done, you can start equipping your office space with the essentials. Focus on creating an ergonomic space. As the Mayo Clinic explains, good office ergonomics can enhance comfort and safety at work; for example, an ergonomic chair with lumbar support can minimize back pain.
You might also get an ergonomic keyboard with wrist support and an ergonomic mouse, which is molded to the natural cupped shape your fingers make when your hand is relaxed. Opt for a wireless mouse, which is easier to use. Check out online reviews from reputable platforms like Work-from-Home Depot to guide your purchasing.
Add personalized decorative touches
It takes more than furniture to create a serviceable workspace. Your decor should enhance your office's aesthetic appeal and comfort. Owl Labs offers some decor ideas, such as adding houseplants. Greenery can create a soothing atmosphere and reduce stress, making for a more positive and productive work atmosphere.
If you will be welcoming clients into your garage-turned-home office, you also want to ensure it looks professional. Adding branded materials that have your business name and logo can help. Vistaprint allows you to create various branded items online at affordable prices. You can get mugs, pens, business cards, mousepads, and more.
A garage is an ideal workspace because it's separate from the rest of the house, allowing you to concentrate without interruption from kids, partners, or pets. Follow the above steps to transform a garage into a work-from-home area where you can thrive professionally.
If you want to buy a new house to accommodate a home office, Matthew J. Paul, associate broker at Hunt Real Estate, can help. You can view testimonials from happy clients here.
