The Remodeling Corner

Janet Cook

This is the third and final article in a series on the remodeling elements included in the Houzz Best in Design 2021. Houzz is a great resource for saving photographs of rooms you like to your project design professional to communicate how you want your home to look. What makes this award designation unique is, rather than asking professionals to submit projects, Houzz pulled the top three percent of homeowners’ most-saved photos, and then the Houzz staff determined the winners. Previously, I have reviewed the most popular elements of outdoor living, and laundry room, kitchen, and bath. Now I will share the most popular features for the home office and home gym.

Home Office

Home offices are being placed in nooks, lofts, or in a bedroom. If a bedroom is needed for guests, a Murphy bed can facilitate the main use of space for work and be ready to host company as needed. An ample natural light is preferred, as well as:

• A stand-alone desk with a wall of custom cabinetry behind that desk with shelving and a computer station

• Or a desk against a wall with a window to be able to look outside

• Planned sight line/background for online camera calls

• Relaxed seating (couch or set of comfy chairs) for reading or conversation

• Under Cabinet lighting

• Ceiling detail—and if it is solely a home office, a door with a glass panel

Home Gym

If there isn’t a room for a home gym or home office, many do an addition to have a dedicated space and include such design elements, along with ample natural light such as:

• Framed mirrors, TV set

• Textured walls and ceiling for better sound absorption

• Cabinets to store equipment, a towel hamper

• Ceiling fans, indirect lighting

• Specialized flooring

Some also included an infrared sauna, jacuzzi, rock-climbing wall, a ballet barre, and a large door that opens to the outdoors.

With people wanting or needing to stay at home more, having a well-designed home office and a place to exercise (which is important for health) has become more important.

Happy Home Remodeling!

Janet Cook, certified aging in place specialist, president of Cook Remodeling (celebrating their 42nd year), invites you to check out their website to read the previous Houzz Best of Design 2021 reviews for more ideas and photos.