A common issue I come across is a workspace that has not been considered. Give thought to who will use the area or room, and when they will use it. It is used all day, mostly in the evening, or part-time? Is it evenings for home study or a weekend reading place? The answers to many questions will inform where the room is, and the colours you choose. I like to think of it as a “head” space; a place that provides a sanctuary as much as a workspace, ideally away from the rest of the house.
It’s important to make it a place that’s comfortable and calm. Most homes were not built with a home office in mind, or the requirement for home working came after the house was planned. You might be lucky to have a dedicated office room, otherwise you’ll double job an existing guest bedroom or area within a room. I’ve designed study spaces in awkward bedrooms, around radiator positions, and even under the stairs!
Practically, not having electrics where you need them, running cables and plugs, working in a draughty area, a noisy area, and bad lighting are things to overcome. Design for printers and scanners, bins and shredders. With new joinery, use grommets to hide cables and get lighting where you need it. Design for storage specific for your needs – whether it’s files under lock and key, or some gym equipment. Good design will find an easy to reach home for all these things.