Combining business with pleasure by creating a two-in-one workspace and a space for your children is easier than you think! Here are my 5 top tips for creating a multifunctional room, i.e., an office space and a family space, that can evolve with the needs of your children.
Choose your space
When creating a workspace, it’s important to think about the location of the room or area that will serve as your office. Not only can space play a huge role in productivity and concentration, but it also has a great impact on creativity and motivation. A closed room is always better, especially if you have small children at home—a room with a door will provide you with a bit more peace and quiet. The view from your chair can also affect productivity and energy. Sometimes, simply prioritizing a spot near a window or with natural light can make a huge difference, plus it's beneficial during video conference calls.
Define the Different Areas
Office Space
If you like the idea of a multifunctional room, make sure that this space will be able to meet the needs of the people who will be using it. The first thing to consider is whether the space in question is large enough to accommodate all the purposes you have in mind. Start with your office space and go from there. One of the most important aspects is to choose a desk that will suit your needs. The type of desk may vary depending on the equipment needed to work: the size of your computer, the number of screens, your notebooks, etc. An ergonomic desk can also be a good option if you're the type who doesn't like to sit for long hours. In addition, if there are two of you working from home, meaning you need two workspaces, it’s best if you each have your own desk. This will allow you to always have access to your own space.
Coffee and Cozy Couch Corner
If you’re a coffee lover, why not spoil yourself by setting up a small coffee corner near your desk? If you have the space, an armchair or a small sofa can also be a nice addition, making it the perfect place to take a coffee break or get some reading done, before returning to your to-do list. In the evenings and on weekends, it can also be the perfect place to read stories with your little ones or fill up on cuddles while playing board games.
Quiet play area suitable for children
If you have young children who are in daycare, it's easy to create a playroom, a corner for them to use on weeknights and weekends: a small table to do colouring or puzzles, an easel to paint and let their imagination run wild, etc. Design a space that can evolve with them according to their interests and needs.
If you have school-aged children, consider installing a small desk area where they can do their homework during the evening. Design the space according to your children's interests, keeping in mind it should serve as a space for board games or more "quiet" games.
Storage
When designing a home office, it's important to think about storage space. Whether it's a filing cabinet, a shelf, or a small dresser, opt for a piece of furniture that will help you stay organized.
If you have young children, you can try creating storage with a piece of furniture you already own. In order to make certain board games more accessible, opt for a type of storage where it will be easy for your children to reach their favourite games. On the other hand, if you plan on creating an artistic corner for them to paint, you might want to store supplies away from your budding artists to avoid surprise messes (especially if you have children under 4 years old)!
Add Finishing Touches to Personalize the Two Different Spaces
Decorating your room can allow you to personalize your spaces and set them apart from one another at the same time. You can add pops of colour to the kiddie corner without having to actually paint the walls. By playing around with frames, decorative objects, and other items, you can create a universe all their own. And by keeping a more neutral colour theme on your walls and around your workspace, you’ll get to enjoy a more laid-back, relaxing atmosphere.
In conclusion, there are several ways to create a multifunctional room that will meet the different needs of your family. Take your time creating this space and adjust it according to the evolution of your needs and those of your children.