Smaller offices.
If you only need a small desk area to do some bills and light computer work, virtually any corner of a quiet room will do. Many modern kitchens even have a small phone area built in; consider claiming this as your own space and clearing out everyone else’s homework, toys, etc.
What about an unused or convertible closet? You may need your guest room for overnight company, but does it have a closet you can use to set up a desk and chair? You can either take out the overhead shelf or keep it to store files and supplies.
Larger and professional office spaces.
If you’re working from home and need to welcome clients or need more space in which to spread out, it’s time to do some major re-thinking when it comes to your home and its use. Sure, you may love the idea of having overnight guests stay in their own fancy bedroom, or your kids may love that separate playroom you’ve furnished for them, but sometimes work needs to take priority. Can your children not play in their rooms, or have a corner of the living room designated just for them? Can you invest in a nice pull-out sofa for your guests, or fix up the kids’ room and have the children double-up? Remember, visits are only temporary, while work is permanent.
Also give some thought as to unused rooms you might have. For example, many homes have a formal dining room that is rarely, if ever, used. Families eat in the kitchen or in the family room. Can you then convert the dining room into an office? Why let that space go to waste? This may also be ideal for when you need to bring clients into your home, as formal dining rooms are typically located near the home’s entrance and away from the other living areas.
Sandra Beck 