Customized Home Offices are the New Normal

Dorian Photography/Designer: Marci Tempesta

BY SHAWN TANNEY RICHARDS

The COVID19 pandemic brought many sudden and unexpected changes to our daily lives – including an inordinate increase in the number of people working from home. According to recent articles in the Wall Street Journal and New York Times, what was once an anomaly became the new norm overnight. With higher than expected employee productivity, once skeptical CEO’s and business owners now foresee this phenomenon as a permanent change to business as usual.

The Decker Ross Interiors design team has seen an uptick in requests from clients asking for professionally designed home offi ce spaces, some of which need to serve a multi-purpose functionality.

“When establishing a home office, considerations include determining your space requirements for furniture and tools to maximize organization and efficiency,” said Suzan Decker Ross, owner of Decker Ross Interiors.

A window can provide ambient lighting and is important for eye health, particularly if you are on the computer a lot- not to mention a welcome change of scenery. Is a door necessary for privacy or noise mitigation? If video calls are required, consider your background. There have been some embarrassing and sometimes comedic examples of unintended background distractions!

From a simple writing desk to accommodate a laptop to a more expansive executive desk, fi ling cabinets and storage shelves, work from home options abound and can be tailored to fi t the specifi c needs of each individual.

In addition to an ample work surface, shelves and storage, this contemporary custom designed beachfront home offi ce contains a comfortable hidden murphy bed for guests. Original art from local artisans, designer window treatments, and a colorful area rug complete the space.

Dorian Photography/Designer: Jen Kravchuk

This desk with a view might prove to be a distraction for the homeowner, unless they’re seeking inspiration for their latest novel! Woven roman shades offer privacy and unique custom drapery panels add a designer detail by calling attention to the high ceilings prevalent throughout this home. A tranquil dusty blue color palette, rustic modern writing desk and comfortable slipper chair off er both simplicity and functionality to this bay window office space.

A contemporary slatted barn door (pictured below) opens into this stunning home offi ce, which features color blocked drapery panels overlooking a spectacular golf course view. A “sputnik style” gold chandelier and angled furniture placement create a uniquely inspired workspace and a pop of cobalt adds a splash of color to this otherwise monochromatic color palette.

Photo by Rob Harris/Designer: Marci Tempesta