If you’re planning on starting a business, or need new space for your small business, then you can find great tips here on how to convert your garage into a home office. A garage is an ideal solution if you want to keep costs low and still have a nice space to work from. In addition, it’s large enough space for a couple of employees and it’s not exactly in the center of the house, where all the distraction is.
So, before you start the renovation, there are important steps to follow when converting your garage into a home office.
Photo by Emma Dau.
1. Create a weatherproof and warm office
Usually, most garages are not made by spending some longer time there, so the first step you need to do is to make the most comfortable garage space. Guard your garage-turned-home office against weather conditions, both for yourself and your equipment.
Make sure to fill in any wall gaps and install reflective foil insulation. Insulation is the key to creating a comfortable home office space. It controls the heat, making the space warm during winter and cool during summer. Insulation acts as an air barrier, vapor, and radiant barrier. Once you’re done with the insulation, invest in a good heater or fan, so you’re ready for every season.
2. Consider the office atmosphere
Working from a place that has negative vibes or doesn’t improve your productivity, is not a great place to work from. That’s why it’s important to keep this in mind when converting your garage into a home office. In order to work in a nice and comfortable atmosphere, you need to consider a couple of things. The lighting is what sets the tone of any space, especially if your garage doesn’t have any windows. Choose warm tones for a cozy feel and print large pictures or posters to create a welcoming space.
Depending on your personality, remote work can be a blessing or a curse for some women, so take time to see what it’s essential for you to create the most out of this home office. Whether you’re enjoying the flexibility of remote work or skipping a commute, but are missing more social interactions, you can organize time with friends or colleagues to work together.
3. Extra touches make all the difference
Having your own office space gives you the freedom to create or design whatever you want. You can place cool light fixtures, bright posters, pinball machines, Friday bar space or colorful pillows and candles. Giving the space a fun and relaxed vibe is going to help you be more productive and feel comfortable while working.
Also, whenever someone new comes in, they will feel welcome and nice during meetings or visits. It’s important to leave a great first impression on new clients and you can do so with a great office space.
4. Set up the equipment
Once you’re done making your new office space all nice and ready, the last step is to bring and set up your equipment. Make sure you have reliable technology and a good wireless connection. If you’re using a wireless network that’s placed in your kitchen or living room, it may not reach your new home office or it may be a weak signal.
To avoid this, purchase an additional router or wireless signal boosters to have a strong and stable connection. Depending on your business, you may need to invest in a printer, data storage, a new laptop, or anything else that’s important for your everyday work. Connect and wire everything together for a smooth workday. Make sure to keep cords in one place and organized, so they don’t end up being all over the floor and walls.
Once you’re set-up, your new home office is ready to use!
