A comfortable and functional space to work at home is almost a necessity these days.  Many people are working from due to COVID or simply because they have been offered this opportunity by their employers.

Working from home always seems like a dream come true, however, if you don't have an appropriate space, it can become quite the opposite.

Here are a few ideas on how you can create your home office on a budget: 

Choosing a room

Choose a room that has plenty of natural light or can be painted with bright neutral colours.  You don't need to give up an entire bedroom to make a home office, it can often be done in the corner of a larger room, but you definitely need to make sure the space is bright and offers you the light you require. 

Furniture

You don't 'need' brand new office furniture, this is something that can be put on hold for the time being. You simply need a space that assists you in getting your job done. Check your garage to see if you have something stored in there that could be used as a desk, ask family, friends, neighbours, or check online for a used desk or chair. When all else fails, use one of your dining room chairs until you can find something affordable. I do suggest having a proper desk or table though, working from the dining room table will be distracting and isn't the most ideal place to focus on your work. 

Equipment

If you're planning to work from home, you likely already have a desktop or laptop computer that you are planning to use. Thankfully these days, most things are digital so you will simply need to ensure that you have a wired internet connection in the are that you've chosen for your office or a strong wifi connection and your cell phone. Unless absolutely needed, there's no need to call in an electrician or handyman to install new hookups. 

Cabinets and storage

As mentioned previously, we are in the digital age, and therefore installing or purchasing file cabinets or storage shelves is likely unnecessary, as most things can be stored online or on your computer. If you do need some storage or file cabinets, these can usually be found at your local thrift stores or at a weekend garage sale. Give them a good clean and they will be near good as new. You can also use things such as plastic totes or smaller 3 - 4 drawer dressers. 

Personalizing

You're likely going to be spending a fair amount of time in your new office, so be sure to make it cozy. Hang some photos, add a couple of plants, maybe even a chalkboard where you can write inspirational and motivational quotes. Another great way to personalize is to hang a corkboard so you can continually recycle the photos or notes that you're looking at, this is also a great place to store some notes of things you regularly refer to. 

What to splurge on

Pens, and I can't stress this enough, there's nothing worse than taking notes with a pen that doesn't write nicely. Spend an extra couple of dollars and get yourself some nice pens. Also, buy yourself a mug warmer to keep your coffee or tea hot while you're working, and maybe a nice thermos style drinking cup to keep your drinking water cold throughout the day.