The modern times have prompted our working spaces to evolve and transported them to our homes. For some it’s a convenience, for some an extra burden, but the fact that the job has to be done remains. From this arises a new demand for an adequate home office or at least an adapted working space.

As many people unfortunately don’t have the benefit of owning a single room for the office due to budget or space limitations, they’re left stranded not knowing what to do. However, the answer to this problem is oh so simple – exploit the guest room! Since neither guest room nor office are used 24/7, the formula is perfect. Here’s how.

In search of balance

Although working from home appears dreamy to some people, making an optimal operational setting is far from child’s play. The private room arrangement can sometimes distract us from the tasks at hand since it is primarily designed for our enjoyment.

That’s why the all the important checkpoints on the road to a successful room makeover have to be honoured properly and completely.

• Are you a genuine TV junkie?
• Is a game console within reach?
• Do you eat in front of the computer?

These are just some of the questions you should ask yourself to devise a highly productive environment that evicts objects that interfere.

Start with making peace with the fact that this space is hardly ever going to be a full-fledged office but a unique update of its kind. Distractions aside, we have to find a way to take advantage of the positive sides of the homey atmosphere this office provides, like pose flexibility or helpful props. Combine meticulous planning from your part with the given material to accomplish a much needed equilibrium.

Two-way functionality

Even though we have tackled the subject of the room’s office role, we mustn’t forget that the room in question is destined for a guest’s abode at the same time. This translates into some interior requirements that don’t let the office dominate. The arrangement should also allow the users to enjoy the space at an aesthetic level by means of local artworks or clever paintjob.

Opt for a furniture to your liking and why not put a TV set too (a widely prohibited object in the downtown office) – it’s a guest room as well. Don’t neglect the choice of draping that effectively complements the room and acts as sunlight controller. Installing simple but strong pallet racking instead of ordinary shelves will provide you with sufficient storage space both for your business supplies and your guest’s luggage, regardless of the weight of all these objects.

Also, most of my home-based friends advise that we introduce a nice, cosy area rug to boost the comfort of the room and, at the same time, maximise its practical side. A good, thick shag can efficiently absorb the noise pollution coming from both the outside and other rooms in the house, so remember to incorporate this into your two-fold plan. The one fold indicates the happy marriage of regular and office items, like cushions and stationery. The other makes sure we stick to the allocated budget.

Clean and tidy room = Clear and organised mind

Some people thrive in their own specific inspirational clutter. For the good deal of people though, scientist concluded that maintaining a tidy and clean home improves our mental state. Basically, you can cheaply and easily boost your productivity and reduce the impact of stress simply by cleaning and decluttering the room. We’re reminding you of this as the logic of this step often escapes us when we prioritise and hurry to meet the crucial deadlines.

Whether your guest setting is going to be messy or pleasant and organised chiefly represents your attitude and hospitality. Not to mention the wrong negative impression they might form after you let them into your private office pandemonium.

I am certain no one wants to come off as an insensitive, disrespectful and thoroughly negligent person. Don’t make up excuses. Vacuum at least once or twice a week, change the linens and curtains regularly and take out the room trash at the end of the day. You’d feel better too in that space.

As you can see, no more than a tad of willpower, perseverance and proper planning is needed to convert an unused spare room. The result: a multifunctional, one-of-a-kind specialized environment that more than successfully moonlights as a guest room.