A Purposeful Room: The rising need for a ground floor home office or guest bedroom.

We have all been there, trying to get work done at home with a laptop teetering precariously on one knee while sitting on the hard ground. The din of kids, pets, doorbells, dishes, tv shows, and video games is ever-testing our patience and ability to focus. An attempt is made to find a quiet part of the house to conduct business, opting for the spare bedroom just as out-of-town guests declare their desire to come stay for a week. Awesome! Ok, now where to put them…or me?!

An increasing number of people are working remote jobs and the need for an adaptable space is on the rise. Thoughtful attention to the needs of modern families should be a part of every new home build or purchase. Here we highlight some of the benefits of a ground floor space for work, play, or hosting guests.

WORK SMARTER

Remote work is the new norm for many professionals in this post-COVID era and the need for a functional and comfortable workspace is on the rise. Setting up shop in a separate, dedicated space on the ground floor offers many benefits. Away from the distractions and noises present in the home, work becomes more efficient and focused. Being able to physically close the door to work at the end of the day helps support a healthy work-life balance.

Pro tip: Glass door with shades, keeps out pets and kids but allows the option to monitor the action outside.

PLAY HARDER

One of the advantages of having a downstairs office or guest room is its versatility, as it can be repurposed for various other needs. This is particularly useful for growing families, as the space can be transformed into a playroom, a home gym, a craft area, music studio, or even a home theater when not in use by guests or during work hours.

Pro tip: A large television screen is an incredibly versatile feature, great for showing client presentations, working out to an exercise video, cartoons for the kids, and of course movie nights!

INCLUSIVE

Another reason for the increasing popularity of a downstairs office or guest room is its accessibility and convenience. Not everyone has the ability to climb stairs easily. By having a functional workspace or a guest room on the ground floor, individuals can save time and effort, especially when hosting elderly relatives, or accommodating guests with mobility limitations. It eliminates the need for navigating through the house, making it more inclusive and welcoming to all.

Pro tip: A downstairs office with its own outside entrance is a great feature when receiving clients, or for out-of-town guests to come and go at their leisure.

PRIVACY

A secluded location offers an element of privacy and separation from the main living areas. This separation is beneficial for individuals who require a quiet and focused environment to work effectively or for guests who appreciate having their own space. It allows individuals to maintain a sense of privacy while still being present in the home, minimizing disruptions and enhancing comfort for both work and leisure purposes.

Pro tip: A room situated near the back of the house, with a door to the yard, pool, deck, or patio is an ideal position.

Everyone benefits from adaptable spaces and having a downstairs office or guest room can also add value to your home. As an office, studio, gym, cinema, play area, or guest room, it is a convenient and versatile feature at the top of many new home buyers’ must-have lists. A multi-functional, ground-floor area creates a welcoming and accessible environment for all.

Pro tip: Ask us at Southerlyn Homes how to best incorporate this element into your design and increase the value of your home!