Expand your own home office: tips and tricks
Can an attic be used as a home office?
The attic is not always necessarily intended for a study, except possibly as a stopgap. However, the expansion would be possible, for this woodwork or work in sheet metal processing (such as with a T-slot plate) is necessary. If the expansion has taken place, then there are usually these advantages:
- Bright study room through large windows, this lifts the mood and productivity.
- Quiet work environment with little noise pollution, ideal for phone calls.
- No common room, no time management has to be done in the family.
- If only used as a study, this also has advantages for tax purposes.
When is an adjoining room suitable as a home office?
Adjoining rooms are particularly problematic in a family environment, since children could well be a nuisance. This is not a problem in itself, but it could lead to a disruption during important phone calls or video calls, which we would like to avoid. Therefore, in turn, the attic is a great advantage.
However, an adjoining room has the advantage that it does not have to be expanded like an attic and in summer there is also no heat. Depending on the structural approach, the internet connection could also be better.
What steps are important when converting the attic?
In winter it could be cold, in summer clearly too warm. When expanding, insulation is therefore crucial, which means that pleasant temperatures can prevail throughout the year. On the other hand, air conditioning and heating are required, these would be additional costs that are also reflected in the electricity bill.
During the first expansion stage, it should also be checked whether the windows are big enough and whether they can be opened. It is crucial for the indoor climate that these can be opened. In addition, indoor plants should be set up, because depending on the species, they can also have a positive effect on the indoor climate.
However, to prevent overheating in summer, sun protection could also be installed. A sunshade repels strong sunlight, which means that there is no glare at work. Roller blinds, for example, are ideal.
Depending on the activity, soundproofing should also be considered. After all, streamers on YouTube and Twitch do not want to be disturbed by the neighbors due to the volume at work, so proper sound insulation on the floor and walls helps with this.
Are there any building regulations?
The building law requirements are determined differently by the federal states, but a building permit is usually required. It should be checked whether this is necessary for the current expansion stage. If you live in rented accommodation, this should also be clarified with the landlord.
However, a building permit is always necessary if the work affects the statics. If the external appearance should also be changed, this must also be confirmed with an approval. The state building regulations provide a certain orientation, if necessary, you can also ask the local building authority at any time. When it comes to video surveillance methods, it should also be taken into account that only your own property is filmed.