Do You Need a Second Office?

September 09, 2020

It’s no secret that these days, families are in need of not one home office, but two. In many households, both adults are working from home at least a few days a week, while children are attending virtual classes. The need for privacy, quiet and yes, charging stations, is paramount. So how do you create a second study? We have some thoughts.

Work With Your Builder

Building from the ground up is an easy way to ensure that there is enough dedicated office space to go around. Most builders offer floor plans with a study as a standard feature. Some also include a small data station off the game room. All of them offer upgrades that range from a homework center for the kids to an entire second study. Talk to your sales representatives about adding additional outlets so laptops, tablets and smartphones can all charge at the same time.

Buy a Larger Home

Larger homes give you more privacy, more space and usually more bedrooms — bedrooms that double as additional office space. If you just want an office, talk to your builder about adding built-in desks, cabinets and shelves. If the room also needs to serve as a guest room, plan your furnishings accordingly. A day bed or pull-out sofa takes up less space so you have more room for a desk but can still welcome overnight guests.

Repurpose Another Room

Bedrooms aren’t the only rooms that can become office space. Don’t need a formal dining room? Ask your builder to add sliding barn doors and you have an instant office. Game rooms or entertainment lofts can be separated into designated areas for work and play. Media rooms make great office spaces as they are built to filter out noise and your television screen is perfect for any Zoom meeting.

That Cupboard Under the Stairs

Any storage space can be turned into a second office as long as you can stand up in it. Install a small data desk for your laptop and a chair. Make sure you can access your wi-fi if you decide to go this route.

An Office With a View

Most Texas patios are covered, so why not go one step further and screen it in? A screened porch keeps the bugs and elements out while providing you with fresh air and sunlight while you work. Most patios already have at least one outlet, so you can charge your laptop, but talk to your builder about adding more. Just don’t get distracted by the view.