Whether you’re still temporarily working from home due to the pandemic or you’ve decided to permanently work full-time from your house, where is your office? A dedicated room just for your office? The dining room table? The kitchen counter?
If you don’t have a spare room or a corner of a room to convert to your office, consider transforming a reach-in closet into your new office. Yes, you’ll have to find another space to store the clothes, coats, or snow skiing accessories that are currently in that closet, but you will free up valuable space for your peace of mind and a more productive work environment.
Here are the things you need to consider if you’re thinking about converting a reach-in closet into your home office or even an area to do crafts:
Location and Size
While your best choice in terms of size and space may first seem to be by the front door or near the family entrance by the garage, keep in mind that the traffic in and out of the house may be too distracting. A reach-in closet that is at least 21 inches deep and 36 inches wide will provide basic desktop space and overhead storage. You’ll also need an outlet, preferably just above the countertop. Unless you really need it for privacy, consider removing the closet door completely. If you really need the separation, add a sliding barn door or curtains to separate and define your office space.
Specific Needs
What do you need in your office? Sure, it would be great to have everything you want in your home office, but due to limited space, you’ll have to compromise. Only if the closet is wide enough will you be able to put shelving or drawers beneath the countertop. Overhead shelving provides storage for files, books, and personal items. If you need a printer and space is limited, consider a wireless model to place outside your office.
If you are able to convert a closet that is larger, full-extension drawers and under-counter shelving provides space for all your office items.
Let there be Light
Small closets usually aren’t well lit or have a lot of natural light. With the power outlet that’s already in the closet or you had installed, add a lamp or LED task lighting underneath the shelf above the desktop.
Sometimes finding the right home office or craft area requires a little bit of flexibility and creativity.
If you want help maximizing your space, or finding creative ways to corral your clutter, give us a call today at 865-777-0306 to schedule your free in-home consultation!