23rd November 2023

Remote working has been around for a while now, but it wasn’t until the pandemic that the concept really exploded in popularity. As of 2023, around 38% of Brits work from home at least some of the time – that’s about 20 million people enjoying the freedom and flexibility that remote working brings.

It’s no surprise, then, that so many people are looking to create a dedicated office in their home. Not only does a home office give you a quiet, convenient space to get your work done, but it also helps keep your professional and personal lives separate, improving your work-life balance.

If converting an existing room into a home office doesn’t suit your style, adding a single-story extension is a great alternative. However, it’s understandable if the idea seems a bit intimidating.

Don’t worry. At Trade Price Warmer Living, we have decades of experience designing top-quality single storey extensions for a variety of purposes, including home offices. Let us guide you through transforming your single story extension into the perfect home office, from optimising the layout to selecting the right design elements.

1. Plan Out Your Structural Features

Before you think about designing the interior, you should lay a solid foundation by planning out the design of the structure itself. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:

• We all know how important getting enough natural light is, so make sure you have plenty of windows and doors to maximise natural illumination. You could even think about incorporating skylights to further create a sense of openness and airiness. However, avoid placing windows directly behind your desk to minimise screen glare, or invest in adjustable blinds for better light control.
• The noise of the outside world can be a major distraction. To combat this, make sure the roof and windows of your extension are well-insulated. This will also help regulate the interior temperature, keeping your workspace warm during winter and cool during summer.
• A cramped and claustrophobic environment isn’t exactly great for your productivity, so allocate enough space to comfortably accommodate yourself, your office furniture, and any necessary equipment.

2. Choose the Right Furnishings

You’ll likely spend around eight hours or more a day in your home office, so it’s important to have furnishings that promote both comfort and productivity. Here are some essential things to consider:

• Since you’ll be sitting for extended periods, prioritise an office chair that provides optimal back support. Look for features like adjustable height, tilt, armrests, and lumbar support to encourage proper posture and prevent back pain.
• Select a desk that offers ample surface area to accommodate your computer, files, and other essentials. Consider desks with drawers for storage and shelves for books and reference materials. Having everything within easy reach maximises your workflow efficiency.
• Maintain a clutter-free workspace by incorporating ample cabinets, shelves, drawers, and closed storage solutions. Wall-mounted racks can neatly store office supplies and keep frequently used items within arm’s reach. When not in use, conceal clutter away to maintain a tidy work environment.

3. Maximise Your Useable Space

An extension is a fantastic way to add more living space to your home, but to make the most of this extra room, think about incorporating some space-saving techniques. Utilise built-in shelving, hidden storage solutions, and multifunctional furniture to maximise every square foot.

If you’re thinking about creating a workout area, a foldable treadmill is a great option to save space when not in use. These smart choices will make your extended living space feel airier and provide ample room for other essential elements.

4. Decorate It Appropriately

The functionality of your home office matters, but so does how it looks. A well-decorated office can boost your mood, sharpen focus, and inspire you to tackle your work with enthusiasm. Even better, it will create a better impression when on video calls or interviews.

Installing professional finishes, like hardwood floors and crown moulding, will help create a polished, upscale look and feel. A workspace that’s too sterile can be just as uninspiring as a cluttered one, however, so add pops of colour, cosy throw blankets, or other decorative accents to transform your workspace into a sanctuary you’ll love spending time in.

You should also make sure to choose colours wisely. Cool tones like blue and green promote concentration, warm hues like yellow and red spark creativity, and neutral walls allow for more pops of colour in your decor. Think about how colours impact your mood and cognition, and choose your extension’s colour scheme accordingly!