As remodeling specialists, we frequently help clients implement new trends in their homes. So, with nearly a year of COVID precautions behind us and new lifestyles here to stay, we want to share some popular changes we’ve noticed!
One of the most in-demand requests are home offices. Not just any home office, but a “pocket office”. These are small, discrete areas in the home that only take up as much space as needed. Whether that means a hub for managing home activities or serving as a work-from-home base, pocket offices provide a quiet location away from the household commotion, without taking up too much space.
Don’t just take our word for it. According to the National Association of Home Builders, pocket offices are one of the biggest trends in new residential design.
Why are Pocket Offices So Popular?
We’ve seen a steep rise in the number of people working from home, with all signs suggesting that these are permanent changes for some companies. Homeowners everywhere are planning on being home for the foreseeable future. That said, pocket offices were on the rise long before COVID took the world by storm and will continue to be popular afterward.
One of the reasons pocket offices are expected to continue trending post-COVID is the increasing popularity and shrinking size of personal technology. Now, for many households, a large home office no longer makes sense or is needed for many households.
Another reason is that many homeowners need to maximize the square footage of their homes. An extra bedroom that might have been used as an office in the past may now be a “flex room” for multiple purposes like a home gym, craft room and guest room.
Finally, there is a rising trend in multigenerational living. Bedrooms that in years past would have been converted into home offices are increasingly becoming used as living quarters for extended family.
Functionality
Pocket offices are generally a quarter or half the size of a formal home office. They’re often situated in or just off high traffic areas such as the dining room, great room or even under the stairs where dead space can be better used.
Execution
Thanks to their small stature, pocket offices are easily incorporated into any home with cabinetry, open shelving and desk combinations.
With pocket offices typically out in the open, cabinetry creates a great place to hide cords and accessories. Open shelving allows easy access for frequently used items like your printer, office phone or binders. Finally, recessed lights can save desk space and provide directed lighting on multi-[purpose rooms.
Whether it’s paying the bills or working from home, a pocket desk is the perfect space for the household CEO. If you need help designing and building your perfect space in Myrtle Beach or surrounding areas, there’s no better time to start than this holiday season! Contact Myrtle Beach Cabinets today at (843) 273-6116.