If you’re one of the many Americans working from home, it’s critical to have an office that allows you to produce your best work every day. Setting up shop in the living room or at the kitchen island might suffice temporarily, but it’s not going to be a viable solution for the long term.
Consider the garage if you’re looking for a separate, comfortable space for your home office. Not only can it help you minimize distractions, but converting your garage into an office could add value to your home and yield tax advantages, among many other benefits. Below, Anna Petrone Interior Design has provided a quick guide to making an inspiring office space out of your garage!
Think About Value
Your first step will be to think through what upgrades could boost your home's appraisal value. That way, you'll know you're benefiting your long-term financial standing while creating a comfortable working environment.
As you make upgrades, be sure to document the progress with before-and-after photos, and keep the receipts of all the materials and services you buy. This will help you prove all the work that was done on your home should you ever choose to sell.
Learn About the Home Office Deduction
Another way to prepare for your garage-to-office conversion is to research the home office deduction. This tax deduction is available to many people who work from home and allows you to deduct specific costs for your business on tax returns.
To qualify for the deduction, you must use the space regularly and exclusively for your company, and it must serve as the principal place of business. It's critical to work with an experienced tax professional to confirm you can use your garage for the deduction.
Clean Every Corner
If your garage is cluttered with seasonal clothes, broken toys, unused tools, and other items, don't let it keep you from transforming the space. Take a weekend (or however long it takes) to sort through all the items and determine what to keep, sell, donate, or recycle.
It can help to get everything out of your garage, even if you're keeping some of the items. Then, deep clean every surface, nook, and cranny. This will leave you with a blank canvas for equipping and decorating your home office.
Break Out the Paint Roller
It's no secret that painting is one of the cheapest and fastest ways to breathe life into space. Consider throwing a fresh coat of white on your garage walls to brighten up the space and leave room for other, more vibrant decor. Or, go with a bold color that inspires you to work productively.
Add the Furnishings and Lights
Next, it's time to furnish your garage office. Choosing the furniture might be one of the most enjoyable parts of the process, but you must ensure you don't go over your budget. Explore second-hand shops in your community, and look to online marketplaces if you don't find anything locally.
Keep in mind that you're going to spend a lot of time in your office, so choose comfortable, functional, and attractive pieces (e.g., office chair, desk, storage solutions, etc.).
Also, consider the lighting in your garage. Chances are you'll need to add lighting to ensure you can work productively without straining your eyes. If you happen to have windows in the space, take advantage of the natural light flowing in by positioning your primary workspace near a window. And go with floor lamps, task lamps, and other lamps for additional lighting. If you need help choosing furnishings and lights, reach out to a reputable interior designer like Anna Petrone!
Conclusion
Your garage could be the perfect space for setting up a home office that's separated from your primary living areas. Consider the tips above to start converting your garage yourself, and then you'll be ready to move in your gear and put the decorations in place that make the office truly yours. In no time, you'll be inspired to wake up and get to work in your new environment!
Would you like to read more helpful content or learn about my interior design services? Visit AnnaPetroneInteriorDesign.com today!