When empty nesters decide to downsize, we often deal with their need for a workspace. Downsizing usually means doing away with a dedicated home office but there is no reason you can’t build an efficient work-station into a guest room by repurposing the closet to create a “cloffice”. Let’s face it, guests won’t really miss it at all.
Tight on space? Create a compact home office in a closet
What is a cleffice anyway? It is simply a closet that has been transformed into an office or compact work station. We designed one for our High Park client just a short while back. Construction hasn’t begun because of covid but we are perched, ready to go with all the design work completed. The beauty of this design is that it provides a bit of workspace along with storage. A sliding door conceals the office portion out of sight when guests are staying over.
Here’s a look at what’s going on inside the closed space. The cabinet above the desk is where the printer will go, Extra supplies on the right and above.
You don’t have to go to the expense of adding built-ins. A closet can be achieved with savvy finds.
Here’s what you will need:
A Work Surface
You just need either a desk that will fit into the space or a surface installed with brackets for a work-surface. Laminate countertop or butcher block will do nicely here (hint: check ikea).
We found a blog with very detailed instructions for how to build the desk surface and shelves yourself if you are a handy diy person. Click the “source’ below the image to read the post. How sweet a set-up is this?
Storage for supplies
Shelves and containers will fit the bill here. Make sure to leave room for some artwork or pretty accessories. “All work and no play…”, as they say makes for a dull workspace and an uninspired workday.
Good lighting
Puck lights or a dedicated desk lamp will be a necessity. Here are a few puck lights that are quick and easy to install. Some go in with adhesive or double-sided tape!
A good desk chair
A dedicated desk chair is a must! Remember the rules of good posture when choosing a good chair and find one that works for you. This is the one piece that is worth investing in before all others. Avoid back pain, achy shoulders, and neck when you choose the right chair to avoid draining your productivity.
Have some fun!
Maybe you are going to close the door on the space at the end of the day, maybe not, but why not inject some personality as a reminder to incorporate some fun in your workday. Remember coffee breaks? A little wallpaper goes a long way. We’ve picked a few of our favourite temporary papers. Peel and stick is a great way to go here to keep it a simple diy project.
…or if you want an even lower commitment, here are some great decals. These are great to personalize kid’s rooms or to personalize their workspace.
Here are a couple great examples.
I love this sweet set-up that I found on Nesting with Grace’s website. The use of a bold graphic, but with the restraint to only place it on the side walls is a bit of design genius in my opinion.
If you want help designing your workspace or cloffice, give us a shout!
My standard disclaimer: Please note, some of these items may be offered through affiliate links which means I could get a small commission if you order. That will never influence what I find lovely and want to share with you. I always offer suggestions I would buy for my home or recommend to a client. Also, rest assured it won’t affect the price you would otherwise pay.
