Over the past few years, many Americans have discovered the value of a home office. But should your new house have more than one home office? The answer may be yes. Here are four reasons to do just that.
1. If Both Spouses Work
Finding a household with one spouse working from home used to be rare. But now, it's increasingly common to find families with both spouses working from home. If you and your partner do this full- or part-time, sharing one space may not be feasible.
Two separate offices allow you to work coincidentally, handle sensitive matters, and avoid getting in each other's way. It's also the best way to keep both workspaces more organized. In fact, your employer may mandate this kind of security and separation.
2. When Kids Do Homework
Whether your kids are homeschooled, attend a remote or hybrid school, or just need to work on homework, they should have a dedicated place to do so. Sharing a home office with Mom and Dad, the family bills, or your part-time side hustle doesn't benefit anyone. Create a school-like environment tailored to their styles of learning and needs. And include a door you can close to ensure they concentrate.
3. To Do the Family Bills
Home offices originated not so much for employment but for the management of the household. This helps keep things more organized and reduces the chance that anything will be overlooked. It also protects your sensitive information from visitors, curious children, pets, and strangers like plumbers and cleaners.
Some families use a dedicated office with a door they can lock. For others, though, a kitchen work desk or even a niche under the stairs may be sufficient. If you tend to do everything online and digitally, for instance, you may not need a full room.
4. When Your Work Varies
Not every home-based worker sits at a desk and computer all day. You may need another workspace to do things like spread out blueprints, assemble products, store inventory, or conduct videoconferences. Some of these activities, like participating in remote video calls, may even need to be in a different part of the house where there's less noise or the family pet can't interrupt.
Where to Start
Does your family include any of these situations? If so, your new home may need more than one home office or home workspace. Start finding the right mix of rooms and usages by meeting with a custom home-building service in your area today.