How to Turn a Bedroom Into an Office

Transform a spare bedroom into an organized and efficient office space.

Advances in computer technology and the Internet have made it possible for people to work from the comfort of their own home. A home office can be an invaluable asset to your career, whether you work from home full-time or part-time. Having a designated work space in the house allows you to concentrate and get your work done in a quiet place free of distractions. Consider turning one of your bedrooms into a home office.

Things You'll Need

• Sheets or plastic canvas
• Painter's tape
• Paint
• Office furniture and supplies
• Blank mailing labels
• Water fountain/fish tank
• Wall decorations

Instructions

1. Remove all furniture, such as the bed, dresser, armoire and nightstand, from the bedroom to create a clean office space. Clear out clutter, clothes, shoes and other personal items from closets and shelves and store in the attic or another room.

2. Cover the floor with old sheets or plastic canvas and line the wall edges and trim with painter's tape. Use a paint roller and brushes to paint the walls of your office a new color to help transform the room and create a more professional work environment. According to Miami University, warm colors like red can stimulate and increase productivity in an office environment, while cool colors like blue tend to create a relaxed mood.

3. Place a desk, an office chair, filing cabinets, desk lamps and other office furniture into the room. Arrange frequently used items, such as a computer, calendar, printer, scanner, telephone and fax machine in easily accessible areas on and around your desk. Store organized reference materials, files, books, binders and small stationery supplies on shelving in the closet.

4. Wrap a blank mailing label around each wire and connecting cord on your computer, phone, printer, scanner and fax machine and label them to keep your electrical equipment organized.

5. Place a small water fountain or a fish tank in the office to add decoration and create a calming work environment. The peaceful sounds of flowing water have a relaxing effect similar to meditation, reports a 2001 article in "Psychology Today." Hang framed achievement awards, education degrees and pictures of family members and friends on the wall to add a personal touch to your home office.

Tips & Warnings

• Plug expensive electrical equipment into a surge protector to prevent damage from power surges.

References

• Miami University: How Color Affects Mood
• HGTV: Quick Tips for Home Office Organization
• Psychology Today: Water's Wonders