It helps to know a few organization tips to keep your home office functional and organized — whether you run a home-based business or you just want a structured area to corral your family’s paperwork. Check out these tips to get a handle on the office in your DFW home.
1. Create activity centers.
To have a truly efficient office space, zone off different activity areas. For example, in your work center, you’d have your computer, a notepad and pens, and any other regularly used office items. In a separate area, you’d create a reference center for storing binders, manuals, professional books, and your family’s important papers. A supply center in your office could be the go-to spot for items like paper and pencils. This is one of those organization tips that many homeowners never think about, but it can have a big impact on the structure and efficiency of your home office.
2. Give everything a proper place.
Hardly ever use that scanner? Place it outside your work area. Use the printer daily? Make sure it’s within easy reach. Be mindful about cords, drives, and trays. You don’t want to block access to these things or take up leg room with a tangle of cords. If you’re upgrading your office equipment, invest in all-in-one pieces to eliminate the need for three pieces of equipment on your desk.
3. Establish a filing system.
If your desk is littered with an endless stack of mail, invoices, paperwork, and things to sign for your kids, it helps to put a filing system in place. Try color-coded folders for each category you need: blue for medical documents, green for financial statements, red for kid stuff, and so on. Here’s more on how to set up an effective filing system.
4. Embrace containers.
Baskets, bins, magazine racks, and drawers can really help compartmentalize all the odds and ends in your office and give it a decluttered look. Don’t forget to utilize wall space by hanging wall pockets or wall organizers to stash important papers.
Your home office can be a haven of productivity and organization — whether you set up shop in a cozy nook in the kitchen, or you have an entire dedicated room as your home office. Want more inspiration for enhancing the office in your Metroplex home? Check out this design studio in Dallas.
What organization tips have worked for you? Tell us about them below.
Image Source: Flickr/Lisa Risager
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