In 2018, more than 5 percent of Americans worked from home. Currently, just about everyone is working from home (its Covid-Crisis time) and some people probably wish they could go back to the office if it were not for that darn commute. Working from home is no longer considered a luxury, but a necessity, and it could be the new normal. If you are self-employed you are entitled to Self-Employment Tax Deductions, but no deductions are allowed if you work for someone else. Nevertheless, working from home could be temporary, but if it’s not, then it is time to think about a permanent “home office”.

Kicking back with your laptop in your own private space has its advantages (working in pajamas, hanging out with your pets, anytime is lunchtime). But unfortunately, it also means that you have to share part of your home & family with your work. Finding the space to do so may be a challenge. Now is a great time to clean-out, de-clutter and really take advantage of space you currently own but are not utilizing.

We all have a love/hate relationship with the garage. We store toys (for both kids and adults), lawnmower, tools, and cars, the list could go on and on…. However, with some weeding out, cleaning out, decluttering and organizing, then our garage could possibly fit a home office. If you don’t currently have an attached or freestanding garage, adding a small separate structure is something to consider. Prefabricated steel structures are easy to erect. However, if you are trying to match the look of your current home, then wood framing or concrete block may be the way to go. Consulting with a local architect or builder is recommended to make sure you are complying with local building codes. If you are building something new or planning to redesign an existing garage or small outbuilding, professional advice is recommended.

Noise might be a problem if your garage is located below a more active section of your home, such as the child’s playroom. For year round comfort and practicality insulating the garage is a must. For sound comfort consider acoustic ceiling tiles or any sound absorbing materials that can be applied to the walls or floor of the garage. For flooring in the garage there are multiple types to help make the garage comfortable enough to work in. Heavy-duty carpet tiles with little or no VOC’s can make a garage feel clean, warm and help with acoustics and sound absorption.

For your mental health, decorate with things you love and gives you joy: artwork, furniture and, most importantly, house plants are scientifically proven to help with air quality and concentration. One of the benefits of working from home is the ability to design an office space that inspires and motivates you.

Keep in mind that when you work at home, distractions can be difficult. Because of this, make a point to have everything you need in your new office space so that you avoid going into the main part of your home. This will keep you from noticing that pile of laundry in the hallway or the dirty dishes in the kitchen sink. A coffee maker and bathroom are a must. If your garage doesn’t already have plumbing, plan to budget at least $3,000 for this addition; CostHelper notes that a simple garage bathroom can cost up to $6,000.

Beyond this, the best place to look for inspiration is your current office. Make notes of things that you like and dislike and either emulate or exclude those features when you get ready to create your own home-based office. Turning your garage into a comfortable and efficient workspace is a great way to utilize every square foot of your property. One added bonus, you’ll get a hefty tax deduction and save time and money on your soon-to-be-non-existent commute.

Design well to work well.