This is a collaborative post: If working from home caught you off guard, it is time to consider building your own home office. Productivity is a huge problem for many remote workers, as the relaxed home environment won’t help you get into a working mood. Having a space designated for work will help you boost your motivation and productivity. However, keep in mind that you don’t need to start from scratch. You already own a garage, so consider converting it to a home office. In this post, we share the ultimate guide on transforming your garage into a functional home office.
Declutter
In most cases, a garage serves as storage space for Christmas decoration or useless stuff. Before you even consider turning your garage into an office, removing the clutter. When you remove all things, find alternative storage for the ones you will really use. Build a shed to store your tools, or consider adding shelves to the garage.
Concept
When the space is clear and empty, plan the area. Think about the needed things to finish the garage. Does the space need improvements? Also, consider adding a fresh coat of paint. Go for light colors to make the small area feel airy and bright. Don’t forget to implement proper lighting according to your specific work needs.
Designing the space is crucial, as it will impact the workflow. The empty garage is like a blank canvas, left to your creativity and imagination. If you don’t know where to get started, use digital tools to visualize the space. Use a simple office design tool to maximize the space and create a functional layout. Invest in a good ergonomic chair that will support your spine and prevent neck pain. Don’t forget to add storage, depending on the nature of your work.
Add comfort
Since the garage wasn’t initially planned for a stay, do your best to add comfort. In order to turn the page into a functional office, you need to have air conditioning and heating. The cheapest option is to get a portable air conditioner and heater. If you plan to use it long-term, invest in a proper HVAC system.
Use natural lighting
You are fortunate if you already have windows in your garage. Suppose you don’t consider adding ambient and task lighting. In a lack of natural sunlight, you should add a lamp to your desk for additional light. Remember that working in a light and bright environment means higher productivity.
Check your wifi reach
If your work relies on a good internet connection, make sure to check if the WiFi signal is excellent in the garage using a WiFi speed test. The thick aggregate walls make it difficult for the signal to penetrate through, resulting in a poor connection. Even if you have an attached garage, the connection will likely be poor. Make sure to perform a proper test to find out more. However, don’t stick only to browsing. Even if the internet speed performs well for browsing, it might not go well for video calls. Consider a portable hotspot or wired connection.
Add a personal touch
An office doesn’t have to be a dull and empty space. Feel free to add a dose of personality and bring the room back to life. Decorate with a plant to add a dose of freshness. Add an area rug for comfort and warmth. Framed prints also work well for small spaces. Consider adding motivational quotes that will help you increase your productivity. Having your designated area for working will help you put a clean line between your private and professional life.