Conley Publishing - Special Sections
Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/1368646
Due to the pandemic, the lines between home and work have never been more blurred. And, thanks to modern technology, the office can be anywhere. Looking beyond the pandemic, telework is being more universally recognized as a productive and practical benefit for employees. That means working from home will likely be happening well into the future. Two members of NARI Milwaukee, Matthew Retzak, project designer with Bartelt. The Remodeling Resource, and Meghan McCabe, marketing manager from Gabor Design Build, provide their expert insight on where and how to create a functional and appropriate work- from-home environment. "These days clients are looking to ditch the hodge-podge kitchen island set up and create dedicated office space," says McCabe. "Since working from home is now the new normal, clients are not only looking for the ideal place for a home office, but a space that fosters inspiration, motivation, and functionality for the long-term." Location With more open concept design in kitchens and living areas, a functional workspace right in the center of it all can work well for some. Others, however, need a quiet escape from the action and prefer to create a more private, closed door room. "The formal dining room is typically underuti- lized and is an easy space to convert into a fully functioning home office," says Retzak. "We can wall it off from the kitchen or add doors to separate it from the foyer so there's privacy and quiet." While some office projects have the goal of tap- ping into previously unused space, many others are about repurposing a room or portion of a room to maximize its practicality. For example, a basement recreation room might turn into a homeschooling area with a space for mom or dad to sit nearby and work, too. Both require plenty of well-planned storage, organization, and lighting. "A guest bedroom that's sitting empty for much of the time can be repurposed as a home office," adds Retzak. "We can install a Murphy bed that flips down when guests visit but is stored the rest of the time so there's plenty of space for the home office." Design Most homeowners are opting for a more com- fortable, yet modern design for their home offices. Personalizing the office space and matching it to the overall design of the home is an important element. Workers want to feel inspired, relaxed and motivated in the room, not stuck. From the artwork, to the plants, to the paint color, it's important to set the right tone. "We listen closely to how our clients describe their work and responsibilities so we can create a customized space that meets their functional and lifestyle needs," says McCabe. "Homeown- ers should also maintain the design integrity of their home. A home office should still have a residential feel and complement the rest of the home's décor." Organization is also a key part of the overall design and worker productivity. "We take into consideration video conferencing and what background you're projecting," says Retzak. "Having a nice built in provides a professional look while also delivering much- needed storage." Lighting Lighting is an important component in a space that's being used eight or more hours a day. A well-lit space with natural and overhead light- ing is best. It brightens the space and helps protect eyes from screen strain and headaches. "Having appropriate lighting is one of the biggest challenges with a basement office," says Retzak. "In a basement, we recommend installing egress windows to bring in natural light and/or adding a good amount of supple- mental light sources to create a comfortable environment." For home offices that are located in a convert- ed dining room or guest bedroom, lighting is also a concern. Designers recommend a combi- nation of overhead and task lighting and advise against relying solely on ambient light. Need help crafting the right office solution? Start brainstorming with a NARI Milwaukee member today and relax knowing they can make a home office work for many years to come. For more ideas on home office locations and renovations, visit the NARI Milwaukee Spring Home Improvement Show, May 21-23, at State Fair Park. Show information is available at narimilwaukeehomeshow.com or by calling 414-771-4071. Spotlight on the Home Office Home office by Bartelt.The Remodeling Resource, NARI Milwaukee Remod- eler of the Year Entire House $500,000 to $750,000 Gold Award Winner 6 NARI Milwaukee Home Connection • Conley Media • May 2021 Basement home office by Gabor Design Build, NARI Milwaukee Remodeler of the Year Entire House $250,000 to $500,000 Gold Award Winner