5 Tips for a Home Office Makeover
Certified professional organizer Darla DeMorrow gives five sure-fire ways to brighten up your home office.
Photo: Darla DeMorrow
A home office makeover can result in a huge payoff from a relatively small space. Whether you're planning to turn a guest room into a home office, or you're simply looking to refresh an office nook, these five must-do's will help you to make the most of your home office.
1. Sort and purge.
Sift through all your old papers collecting dust in your office. The old stuff can usually be downsized quite a bit. You don't have to go paperless, although that's a great goal. But a few hours of purging can clear out a lot of space for the important stuff.
2. Eliminate unwanted electronics.
Donate working items to friends or organizations that take those products. Recycle the dinosaurs. While you're at it, organize and tack up all the cords. You'll be amazed at how much cleaner it makes the office feel.
Photo: Darla DeMorrow
3. Make space for everyone.
If your spouse or kids share the space, set it up so you all can work comfortably. When I made over my home office, we even make space for the family to practice guitar.
4. Consider comfort.
Give yourself a comfortable place to sit, like this beautiful dining chair. It works equally well as an office chair. Make sure your chair is the right height for your desk, and is enjoyable for long stretches of sitting. Consider a pillow to combat lower back pain.
5. Embrace color.
Make the space your own by using your favorite colors. My makeover included pale blue walls, which let the painted file cabinets and many organizing accessories take center stage. It also made the room a calm, pleasing place to be.
With these critical steps accomplished, you'll be loving your new or revamped home office.
Photo: Darla DeMorrow
Want more home office organization inspiration? Check out these stories for more:
Glam up Your Home Office »
Eclectic Home Office on 3 Budgets »
5 Tips for a Functional and Stylish Work Space »
