By Lana Bingham
Rising gas prices are a good enough reason to work from home, and with custom offices designed by Tampa home builders, it’s easy for homeowners to bring function, style and inspiration into their at-home workspace. Here are a few great office designs to help you identify a workspace design that works for your home and lifestyle.
The Shared Station - A joint office is a great option for families with two or more children. Double desks allow kids to have a personalized area designated for homework and study time. To allow minimal interaction (and maximum production) face the desks away from each other or place a built-in storage compartment between them. Liven things up with chalkboard paint, fun light fixtures or have your child’s artwork framed and hung on the wall. To learn more about designing a homework nook, read our past blog. 
A Creative Corner – For those creative-career types, you will need a space that evokes inspiration and spurs the imagination. Surrounding yourself with things you love and decorating in your favorite colors will make the space feel light and cheery. A motivational idea board or accent wall is a must have for this type of office and provides a spot to jot down quick ideas or pin up project concepts. A nice view may also be beneficial and will let in sunshine. A window seat or sitting area can provide a good spot for a mental break or sipping your morning coffee. Whether you are writing a novel, working on an advertising campaign or designing a fall fashion collection, this type of office will help get the job done.
The Family Command Center – Often attached to the kitchen, this central office can really benefit families as it provides workspace and additional storage for important papers. Organization is key in this type of office, and custom home builders Tampa recommend a filing system, built-in shelving and sufficient wall space for a bulletin board and calendar. Color-coding each family member is another organizational tip. Since the whole family will be utilizing this space, be sure to include easy to use electronics and a variety of office supplies.
A Stately Study – This type of office is often stereotyped as being dark and masculine with framed certificates, outdated leather furniture and a littering of brandy decanters. However, the one room office has become much more style savvy, with endless design options and finishes available. So those professionals who have plenty of space or an unused bonus room, why not jump at the opportunity to turn a whole room into an office. Line the walls with built-in bookcases; hang a chic chandelier; incorporate a mini bar or coffee station; or add a warm, toasty fireplace.
The Petite Pocket Office – This is the most functional office option, as it can be easily built with limited space. Often found in a central location such as off of the living area, underneath a staircase or tucked in a corner, all this little nook needs is a few built-in shelves and an electrical outlet. Home builders Tampa recommend using a crisp white color scheme to give the illusion of more room in a small space.
A Distinct Desk – There are those who say, “If you have space for a desk and chair, you have a home office.” Yet, it isn’t easy to be productive when you are claustrophobic or distracted. Pay attention to placement - positioning your desk right next to your big comfy bed may make you more likely to put off work for a quick nap. Keeping your desk small and streamlined is the best way to ward off clutter and claustrophobia. Although your desk at work may consist of a small office plant and a family portrait, don’t be afraid to decorate your home workspace with things you love.
Whether you home office is intended to use full time or part time or as a personal space or shared family station, it should be a reflection of your personality, profession and style. So leave the boring, bland décor at the office, and make your home workspace better suited to your needs and lifestyle.
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