Things to Consider when Planning a Home Office

Make a checklist of all of the office equipment you will be using on a regular basis. Include dimensions so that you can get a better idea of just how much space you will need to plan for. In addition to your computer monitor and CPU or laptop, you will need to take into account any peripherals, such as the printer, telephone and fax machine. Allow for any other office furnishings you might need, like a file cabinet, hutch or bookcase.

From the checklist of office equipment, you will be able to determine what power sources you will require and where the furniture should be placed in relation to sockets and phone jacks.

Decide where you want to put the computer desk. Will your home office have a room of its own or is it going to be integrated into other living areas like the family room or an alcove? If it is going to be part of another room, you might want to consider using partitions or a decorative screen to create a sense of privacy.

Take into consideration how many people will be using the computer desk/home office. Also, keep in mind whether they are right or left-handed. Setting up an office space that takes your dominate hand into account, will make your work area more ergonomic.

Be comfortable. Choose an office chair that will not only complement the desk you selected, but will also support  you ergonomically. Make sure that the height of the computer keyboard is just right: if it is placed either too high or too low, it can contribute to wrist strain, carpal tunnel and muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.

A work surface of 24” in depth will be adequate enough to accommodate the monitor, which should be positioned at least 14-16” away from you when sitting at the desk.

If handedness is a consideration, select an L-shape desk that is reversible, allowing you to attach the desk on either the right or left side.

When the existing overhead lighting in the room is inadequate, include task lighting and make the best use of any available natural light by positioning the desk in relation to the window or skylight.

When purchasing a unit that includes glass shelves, doors or tabletops, choose one that uses tempered glass. Tempered glass is treated with heat or a chemical solution to make it stronger and safer and is designed to break into small fragments rather large shards.