It started with a Zoom call and a leaf blower, a terrible combination.
She was presenting to a client from the kitchen table while her husband took a call in the next room. The kids were in the background, the dog was barking at the landscaper, and their Wi-Fi was barely holding on. They looked at each other and said simultaneously, “We need offices.”
At LaFollette Custom Homes, we’re seeing an increasing number of clients request not just one home office, but two. Whether you’re both remote full-time or splitting work-from-home days, having dual workspaces designed with intention can transform your productivity and peace of mind. Here’s how we help you design a home that works for how you work:
Separate Home Office Spaces for Better Focus
Creating separate workspaces in your custom home design is key to preserving both productivity and sanity. Whenever possible, set up two distinct work zones in different areas of the home to minimize noise transfer and reduce distractions. Consider pairing a dedicated home office with a built-in workspace tucked into a quieter corner, combining an office with a study loft, or converting a guest room or flex room into a functional desk area.
Prioritize Sound Control in Home Offices
One of the best ways to reduce noise and limit distractions in your home office is to use solid-core doors, rugs to dampen noise, and acoustic panels. Plan for your home office to be away from high-traffic zones like your kitchen or mudroom to create a quieter environment. Built-in bookshelves and fabric furniture also offer the added benefit of absorbing sound, making the workspace feel calmer and more comfortable.
Let There Be (Natural) Light
Natural light in your home offices supports energy levels, mood, and your overall well-being. Make sure both workspaces have access to daylight by positioning desks near or facing windows whenever possible. If natural light is limited, use daylight-simulating bulbs to recreate the effect. To keep eyes comfortable during long screen sessions, incorporate multiple lighting layers – overhead, task, and ambient – to create a balanced, glare-free environment.
Custom Storage and Cable Management
You will spend a lot of time in your home office. It must bring you as much peace and comfort as possible. Transform your home office into an organized and clutter-free workspace with custom-built-in storage and smart cable management. Hidden outlets, USB charging ports, and cord channels maintain a tidy look by keeping cables out of sight, and adding display shelving can add more personality to your space.
Think Beyond Your Work Desk
Your home offices should be as customized as they are practical. Think beyond the traditional work desk and make your home office far more versatile and enjoyable. Incorporate comfortable corners for reading, brainstorming, or quiet focus to break up the workday. In larger offices, a mini coffee station or small beverage fridge adds convenience and creates a more inviting atmosphere. You can also design a shared outdoor patio or screen porch nearby, giving you and your partner a refreshing place to step out for a quick break.
Bonus Tips for Dual Work Success
- Designate “office hours” and create boundaries between work and home, even if it’s just closing the door.
- Include lockable doors or secure drawers for sensitive documents if either of you handles confidential work.
- Personalize your space. Even with different aesthetics, both offices can convey an equally intentional and tailored feel.
Designing Dual Office Spaces in Your Custom Home
When your home is also your workplace, layout matters more than ever. With thoughtful design, you and your partner can each have your own space to focus, create, and breathe without stepping on each other’s to-do lists. A well-designed home office can significantly improve your work-from-home experience, making it a worthwhile investment.
At LaFollette Custom Homes, we’ll help you design dual workspaces that reflect your unique needs, lifestyle, and future aspirations. The ideal work-from-home setup is one you enjoy working in.