Tax season is upon us! For many, this means hours and hours skimming over paperwork, spreadsheets, and tax software. Even collecting forms and receipts is a grueling task. But dreading your home office setup can make the process even more painful. Transforming your workspace into a haven of productivity and organization can make all the difference. If you’re tackling your personal taxes, working remotely, or running a business from home, keep reading because we are here to help you create a home office you’ll actually want to work in, and not just during tax season. And if the thought of designing it all yourself feels overwhelming, our lead designers are ready to tackle this project.

The 5 L’s of the Perfect Home Office:

• Location: During tax season, eliminating distractions is key. Ask yourself, do you need a quiet, private space to focus on those 1099s and beyond? Or are you someone who prefers a more central location where you can keep an eye on the fam while you work? If you need peace and quiet, a spare bedroom or a corner of the basement might be ideal. If you prefer to be near the action, a space near the kitchen or living area could work, but keep in mind potential interruptions to get you off track. Our staging experts at Impact often utilize bedrooms as temporary home offices when dedicated office spaces aren’t available in the homes we stage. This highlights the versatility of a bedroom and its potential as a functional workspace. And speaking of creating the perfect home office, we’ve got a special offer for you! Now through February 14th, 2025, book a staging package with us and receive a FREE home office design consultation! Let us help you create a workspace you’ll love.
• Lighting (natural): Consider natural light too – a room with plenty of sunshine can boost productivity and mood, especially during those long tax season nights (and us Michiganders absolutely crave vitamin D right now!). However, managing that natural light is just as important. That’s where window treatments come in. According to Kelly Smith, our Window Treatment Specialist, “blinds, shades, or curtains can help you control glare on your computer screen, prevent your office from overheating on sunny days, and offer privacy when needed. Proper window treatments can add warmth and eliminate chilly drafts when you add the right coverings that fit perfectly. Window treatments are a crucial part of making these spaces functional and stylish.

Comfort is key to productivity, especially when you’re spending hours at your desk during tax season. Invest in an ergonomic chair that is supportive. Your desk height should also be appropriate for your body, allowing you to work comfortably without straining your back. Consider a standing desk if you prefer to alternate between sitting and standing.

• Livability & Logistics: While a beautiful office is inspiring, functionality is paramount. Start by considering your needs. What equipment do you use regularly? Do you need ample desk space for spreading out those tax documents? Do you require specialized storage for files, receipts, and tax forms? Create a list of your must-haves before you start shopping for furniture. Think about dedicated space for your printer, scanner, and shredder – essential tools for tax preparation. Not to mention your tablet, walking pad, and space for your phone.
• Lumens: Proper lighting is crucial for both comfort and productivity, particularly when dealing with small print and detailed tax forms. Natural light is ideal, but supplement it with task lighting, such as a desk lamp, to avoid eye strain. Ambient lighting, like overhead fixtures, can also create a more welcoming atmosphere.
• Logical: Clutter is the enemy of focus, this is especially true during tax season when you’re dealing with a mountain of paperwork on top of your day to day. Investing in logical solutions that keep your workspace organized and tidy. Shelves, drawers, filing cabinets, and even decorative boxes can help you keep everything in its place. It is so true that a clean and organized space promotes a clear and focused mind.

A Note from Impact’s, Ann Gilbert, Director of Design

I Love plat panels, especially for a home office. They provide a stylish and functional addition. They are a smart choice and compliment any style.

Slat panels are a great way to add both style and functionality to your home office. These panels are usually made of wood or MDF. They can offer a clean, modern look while also providing practical benefits. Yes! There is something extra special about this added detail. They can be used to create a feature wall, as well as add texture and depth to your personal space. Most slat panels also have acoustic properties, which can help to dampen sound and create a more peaceful and quiet work environment. This can be a blessing during tax season when the phone might be ringing off the hook and the whole family is stuck indoors during Michigan’s winter months. They can even help with sound quality on those long zoom meetings!

Ready to Create Your Dream Home Office? We Can Help!

Designing a functional and inspiring home office can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already stressed about taxes. Don’t go it alone! Ann Gilbert and Kelly Smith, Impact’s experienced designers, can help you create the perfect workspace for your needs and budget. From space planning, window treatments, and furniture selection to lighting and décor, we’ll guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Contact us today and let’s make this tax season (and every workday) a little easier, starting with the office.