Have you recently begun to work from home? You are certainly not alone and this trend is expected to become even more popular in the near future. While there are many benefits associated with a home-based business, we need to keep in mind that creating a functional office could very well determine your overall success. Let's therefore take a quick look at how to transform an everyday garage into a fully functional office.
Vertical Storage
Most garage-based offices are associated with a limited amount of space. However, you should not be forced to endure a cramped and cluttered environment. Take advantage of vertical shelving to store important everyday items. Wall-mounted cabinetry is another excellent option to consider.
Make the Most Out of Existing Space
It is also wise to examine the floor plan of your garage. This will enable to you better determine where common items such as office furniture should be placed. It may also be a good idea to invest in space-saving accessories such as tables that can fit into corners alongside overhead storage solutions.
All About Organization
An organized office is a productive office. Unfortunately, you may be grappling with a small amount of floor space or negotiating with other items (such as a vehicle). It is therefore wise to think outside of the box in terms of how you can remain organized. One interesting suggestion involves investing in a series of pegboards or walls with horizontal grooves. The main takeaway point here is that functionality will determine productivity.
The Grab-and-Go Edge
In terms of convenience, why not purchase a handful of baskets that can be mounted directly to the walls of your garage? These innovative options offer two main benefits. First, they provide a quick and easy way to store smaller accessories such as office stationary. A second advantage involves the fact that it is easy to grab whatever you require within a matter of seconds.
Keeping Your Vehicle in Mind
Many garage offices will have to be balanced with the presence of a vehicle. How can you ensure that your care remains protected while still carrying out everyday responsibilities? Here are some professional tips and tricks to highlight:
Use a vehicle cover to prevent unintentional damage.
Add a gas stabilizer if the car will not be used for 30 days or more.
Use wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from accidentally rolling.
Ensure that moisture and humidity are kept in check (more on this later).
If you have grown attached to your vehicle, be sure to implement the suggestions mentioned above.
Ventilation Concerns
As mentioned in the previous section, many garages are known for relatively high levels of moisture. Not only can this damage a vehicle, but working within such an environment is far from comfortable. If your garage remains humid throughout the year, invest in a portable dehumidifier. This will help to lower the moisture content of the ambient air. Of course, those with more financial liquidity may also choose to implement an HVAC heating and cooling system.
Let There Be Light
Office lighting is extremely important and this observation is just as applicable in regard to garage conversions. As the majority of garages do not offer much natural illumination, it is wise to invest in a handful of LED fixtures. Not only will these provide a welcome source of crisp light, but their energy-efficient nature helps to lower electric bills over time.
Prevent Drafts
Drafts and garages seem to enjoy a hand-in-hand relationship. Unfortunately, this can be quite frustrating if you will be devoting hours to your professional career. Make it a point to search for any air leaks; particularly around windows and the frame of the garage door. Purchasing a do-it-yourself sealant kit will ensure that you remain comfortable; particularly during the colder months of the year.
A Touch of Security
Every garage should be equipped with a robust security system and this is even more relevant if the space will be used as an office. Here are a handful of modern technologies to consider:
Heat and motion sensors
Robust garage door locks
CCTV cameras
Biometric scanners (such as fingerprint readers)
Be sure to examine the cost of these methods in order to accommodate your budget.
Epoxy Flooring
Due to the functional nature of a garage, parquet flooring or carpets may not represent sensible options if it will double as an office. One interesting option is to use an epoxy sealant. Epoxy will provide an effective moisture barrier, it can protect the underlying surface and it is often possible to choose non-slip formulations. The good news is that this material is easy to apply and it will last for years if cared for properly.
Home-based offices are indeed the wave of the future, so why not take full advantage of an existing garage? Please feel free to refer back to the suggestions mentioned above in order to obtain a bit of much-needed inspiration on occasion.
Author Bio:
This article was written by Patrick Barry of VRT.ie – The go-to experts in the Car importation field. Be it importing a motor from the UK to Ireland or needing the assistance of a Customs Clearance Agent, VRT is here to help with all of your importation needs.
