According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, more than half of small businesses within the United States are home-based. In addition, the practice of telecommuting is on the rise, even within traditional corporations. The 2010 American Time Use Survey from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated that more than 22 million Americans now work from home for at least part of the day, and industry experts are predicting that this statistic will increase significantly within the next five years. With more and more Americans utilizing space within the home for business purposes, it’s no surprise that the home office is quickly becoming an area of focus for interior designers and DIY'ers.
Regardless of the type of business being conducted in the space or the homeowner’s budget, today’s best home office designs are characterized by a blend of both function and personal style.
Equally as important as the office’s location within the home is the selection of functional work surfaces, furniture, and storage. At minimum, the home office should feature a sizable flat surface for basics such as a computer, phone, and paperwork; storage space for office supplies, reference books, and paper files; and a comfortable chair.
“One of the biggest trends we’re seeing in home office design is for homeowners to choose unconventional furniture and storage options that serve the same purpose as traditional office furniture, but are much more stylish and personal,” says Gilder.
For example, traditional desks are being replaced with decorative multi-purpose tables, credenzas are being replaced with trunks or armoires, standard office chairs are being replaced with modern yet comfortable seating, and wall units are being custom-designed to promote organization while maximizing space.
In addition, Gilder said that homeowners are now incorporating the latest color trends, textures, and accessories into the home office, making the space more congruent with the aesthetic of the rest of the home.
Gray had a closet removed in order to create a nook for her oversized chair and had an extra deep built-in bookcase made for additional storage. Other personal touches include seafoam colored walls and accessories such as shells to create an elegant beach vibe. “I spend way too much time in the office to have to stare at metal filing cabinets!” she says.