It is not uncommon for a new home-based business owner to locate their office in the one of the smallest rooms in the house, as balancing the space needs of the business and the family is a challenge.
This makes it even more critical that the office space be well used and highly utilitarian in its design and layout. The days of placing a spare kitchen table and a couple of cardboard boxes are gone in home office layout. Today, sophisticated electronics, substantial file storage and abundant work surfaces are required to productively run a home business.
This month's questions involve tips and techniques on getting the best use of the home office space.
Q. In order to maximize money available to create my new products, I want to create a home office in my studio apartment to eliminate outside rent. Any suggestions on how to best use my limited space?
A. The key to good use of limited space is to use both vertical and horizontal space as productively as possible. Several steps will aid you in producing and effective design. First, plan ahead. Make a diagram of your space and list everything you feel you will need to put into the space, such as a desk, chair, lamp, computer table, bookshelves, fax machine, wall decorations, presentation equipment and supplies, file cabinets, etc. Many office supply stores stock templates that provide a grid to depict your office space and symbols to scale to represent common equipment. Have some fun moving the pieces around the grid. Second, think small. Look at storage units that can be added onto easily and modular desks that open into a number of sections. Many manufacturers of RTA (ready-to-assemble) furniture, such as O'Sullivan and Gusdorf offer this type of computer desk. Third, figure out the best way to store items efficiently. Do this by making lists of items you use daily, weekly and occasionally. Store them accordingly. Fourth, use color to cheer up the space. Consider coordinating the drapes or blinds and an area rug. Create a focal point with eye-catching art on the walls. Lastly, build up, not out. Within limits of safety and visual harmony, don't be afraid to build shelves over your desk or over a sofa.
Q. A friend of mine's house recently caught on fire and destroyed most of her home office. She is out of business now. How can I avoid this tragedy?
A. Of first importance, of course, is to try to avoid a fire in the first place by being extra diligent in using fireplaces, space heaters and other high-power appliances. To protect against total disaster in the event of a fire or other catastrophic occurrence, follow theses tips:
About the Author
Jeff Williams is a 50+ entrepreneur who worked for big business for years, until he decided to take his career in his own hands by establishing his practice as a business coach and trainer. Now Jeff offers you the information he had to learn the hard way -- and he shares it with you in his Ultimate Boomer Business Start-Up Guide.