Starting a home business in Blighty is all good until you realise your ‘home office’ is just a desk crammed into the corner of your already cramped living room. And let’s not even mention that mountain of paperwork hiding under the bed. But fear not, for I’ve rustled up a few genius (if I do say so myself) ideas to carve out that perfect workspace without relocating to a mansion in the Cotswolds.

Garden Rooms: The MVP of Home Offices

Top of the list, and for good reason, garden rooms, like the impressive ones at Modern Garden Rooms, are all the rage now. Picture this: a serene space amidst the blooms, where the chirping of birds replaces the blaring of telly. Not only are they a fabulous way to separate ‘work’ from ‘home’, but they also provide a lovely view to gaze at when you’re on your fifth Zoom call for the day.

Staircase Nooks

Got some space under the staircase? Why not turn it into a cosy work nook? Chuck in a desk, a lamp, and a corkboard, and Bob’s your uncle – instant office!

Closet Turned Office

It’s not Narnia, but it’s still magical! Empty out that wardrobe of forgotten fashion faux pas, and you’ve got yourself a concealed workspace. Open the doors for business hours, close them when you’re off the clock. You can fit a surprising amount in there!

Wall-mounted Desks

Space-saving and trendy, these desks are perfect for tight spaces. Plus, hovering over the floor makes hoovering a doddle (see what I did there?).

Lofty Ideas

A mezzanine can be a game-changer if you’re blessed with high ceilings. Sure, it’s a bigger project, but think of it as your business penthouse suite. Best of all, you’ll still be able to keep an eye on what is going on with the kids or the dogs, down below, so they’ll get into less mischief.

Mobile Office Cart

For those who don’t like to be tied down, a cart on wheels with all your work essentials can be a nifty solution. Roll it in when you start the day, and tuck it away come evening.

Divide and Conquer

If you’re working from a corner of a room, use room dividers or bookshelves to define your workspace. It creates a mental boundary and stops your work from spilling into relaxation areas.

Utilise Outdoor Spaces

No, I don’t mean dragging your computer outside when it’s drizzling. But an awning or pergola can provide a sheltered outdoor area that’s perfect for those less paperwork-heavy days.

Double-Duty Furniture

Think beds with storage drawers underneath or coffee tables with compartments. The trick is to have pieces that are both functional for living and efficient for storage. That way, you can use your space efficiently when working or relaxing.

Organisation is Key

When space is a luxury, tidiness is paramount. Floating shelves, wall organisers, and pegboards are your new best mates. Embrace them!

Right, you budding Bransons and aspiring Sugars, I reckon it’s about time to reclaim that nook, cranny, or patch of green and get cracking on your business empire. And if you catch a glimpse of a squirrel while you’re at it, that’s just the cherry on the top.

Related posts:

Creating a calming working from home space Easy ways to solve space shortages in your home Using your garden to extend your living space The benefits of a garden office