What To Do With An Extra Room? Turn It Into A Home Office!

Have you ever found yourself staring at an extra room in your house, wondering how to make the most of it? Whether it’s a spare bedroom, an underutilized living room corner, or even an attic space, one of the most practical and rewarding ways to use it is by turning it into a home office. With remote work and hybrid arrangements becoming the norm, having a dedicated workspace at home is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. If you’ve asked yourself, “what to do with an extra room in a house,” this guide will walk you through the process of creating a home office that is both functional and inspiring.

Planning and Designing the Home Office

Transforming an extra room into a home office begins with thoughtful planning and design. A workspace tailored to your needs will not only improve productivity but also make working from home more enjoyable.

Assessing the Room’s Layout and Natural Light

Start by evaluating the room’s dimensions and layout. Consider the placement of windows, doors, and electrical outlets, as these factors will influence how you set up your furniture and equipment. Natural light is a critical element of a productive workspace, as it boosts mood and energy levels. Position your desk near a window if possible, allowing you to take advantage of daylight while reducing reliance on artificial lighting. For rooms with limited natural light, consider using mirrors strategically to reflect and amplify the available light.

Choosing a Desk, Chair, and Other Furniture

What to do with extra space in the bedroom if it is a home office? The desk is the centerpiece of any home office. It’s essential to choose one that fits the space while offering ample room for your work essentials. For smaller spaces, small desks with built-in storage are ideal.

Equally important is your choice of chair. A high-quality ergonomic chair supports your posture and prevents back pain, especially during long work hours. Additional furniture like bookshelves, filing cabinets, or side tables can enhance storage and organization, ensuring that everything you need is within reach.

Considering Storage and Organization Options

What to do with extra space in the living room in case it is a home office? Clutter can be a major productivity killer, so effective storage solutions are a must. Built-in shelves or modular units can make excellent use of vertical space, while rolling carts and under-desk drawers keep supplies accessible without taking up floor space. Cable management tools like clips and trays can keep your workspace tidy, while labeled containers and baskets add a touch of organization and style.

Creating a Functional and Comfortable Workspace

A home office setup should balance functionality with comfort, ensuring you stay focused and at ease throughout the day. Beyond furniture, consider key factors like lighting, temperature, and ambiance.

Lighting and Temperature Control

Proper lighting is crucial for both productivity and eye health. A combination of ambient lighting (overhead lights) and task lighting (desk lamps) creates an environment that is bright but not harsh. LED bulbs are an excellent choice because they are energy-efficient and produce consistent light.

In terms of temperature, maintaining a comfortable climate is essential for staying focused. Portable fans, space heaters, or smart thermostats can help you regulate the room’s temperature, especially in areas prone to seasonal extremes.

Noise Reduction and Soundproofing

If your home office is in a shared or noisy area, soundproofing can make a world of difference. Soft furnishings like rugs, curtains, and upholstered furniture absorb sound and minimize echoes. Acoustic panels are another effective option, especially if you’re participating in frequent virtual meetings. For added focus, noise-canceling headphones are a worthwhile investment.

Incorporating Plants and Artwork

Adding personal touches to your workspace can inspire creativity and make the room feel more inviting. Indoor plants like pothos, snake plants, and peace lilies not only enhance aesthetics but also improve air quality. Meanwhile, artwork or framed photos on the walls can provide a motivational boost and reflect your personality. Choose decor that aligns with the mood you want to create—whether that’s calm, energizing, or creative.

Tips and Ideas for Organizing a Home Office

A well-organized home office is a productive one. Keeping your space tidy and efficient doesn’t require a massive overhaul—just a few simple strategies.

Decluttering Regularly

One of the simplest ways to maintain an organized office is by decluttering frequently. Set aside time each week to sort through papers, clear your desk, and put away items that aren’t in use. Implement the “one in, one out” rule: for every new item you bring into your office, remove something old or unused.

Using Smart Storage Solutions

Smart storage doesn’t just keep your office tidy—it also saves time by making it easier to find what you need. Wall-mounted shelves are great for books and decorative items, while magnetic boards can hold notes, calendars, and reminders. For smaller supplies like pens and notepads, drawer dividers keep everything in its place.

Digital Organization

Reducing reliance on physical files not only frees up space but also streamlines your workflow. Digitize important documents and store them in cloud-based systems like Google Drive or Dropbox. Organize files with clear naming conventions and folders to avoid chaos. Additionally, task management apps like Trello or Asana can help you prioritize and track your work.

Creating Zones for Different Activities

What to do with extra room as a home office? If space allows, consider dividing your office into zones for various tasks. For instance, designate one area for computer work, another for reading or brainstorming, and a separate zone for filing or storage. This not only helps with organization but also makes your office feel more dynamic.

Invest in Ergonomic and Smart Furniture for a More Comfortable and Productive Home Office

Investing in ergonomic and smart furniture is essential for creating a workspace that supports your health and productivity. Autonomous offers a range of furniture designed with comfort, functionality, and innovation in mind.

Autonomous SmartDesk 2

The Autonomous SmartDesk 2 is a smart height-adjustable desk that allows you to switch between sitting and standing with ease. Its programmable settings let you customize your working positions, promoting better posture and reducing fatigue.

Autonomous SmartDesk 2

3335 reviews

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Top description

Top	Classic Top
Dimensions	53"L x 29"W x 1"H
Shipping dimensions	56"L x 33"W x 3"H x 47 lbs
Colors	White, Black, Walnut, White Oak, Bamboo
Material	Warp-proof MDF wood Natural Bamboo

 

Frame description

Motor type	Dual	Dual
Lifting speed	1.1”/sec	2.3”/sec
Lifting capacity	250 lbs	310 lbs
Noise level	45 dB	40 dB
Height range (without top)	27.2" - 46.5"	25.2" - 51"
Height range (with top)	28.3" - 47.5"	26.2" - 52"
Length range	39.8'' - 59''	40" - 73"
Frame foot width	23.6''	27.5"
Material	SPCC steel	SPCC steel
Colors	White, Black	White, Black, Grey
Outlet voltage	110-240V	110-240V
Anti - collision	Yes	Yes
Shipping dimensions	39"L x 11"W x 9"H x 51 lbs	43"L x 13"W x 10"H x 70 lbs

 

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Offers Standard (2-stage) and Max (3-stage) frames to suit different needs.	Standard model's height range may not suit very tall or short users.
Height range from 25.2" to 51" with memory settings.	Limited surface size (53"x29").
Supports up to 310 lbs, ideal for heavy setups.	Assembly might be more complex and time-consuming
Quiet operation at 40-45 dB.
Made with sustainable FSC-certified materials.
Sturdy build: SPCC steel, ANSI/BIFMA certified.
Anti-collision technology for safety.
Quick assembly: 10-20 minutes.
Warranty: 10 years on the frame, 1 year on the top.

 

• 

  "This desk is sturdy and really easy to assemble. It's definitely an upgrade from my old setup." - Azeria
• 

  "I love the minimalistic style and stand/sit functionality! Much better than my old mechanical converter apparatus if you know what I’m talking about." - Maggie
• 

  "The bamboo desktop finish is beautiful. Love it." - Nikki

Autonomous SmartDesk 5

With a sleek and minimalist design, the SmartDesk 5 offers a smooth motorized system for effortless height adjustments. This C frame standing desk comes with amazing color palettes that will totally transform your home workspace.

SmartDesk 5

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Top description

Dimensions	53"L x 29"W x 1.2"H
Colors	Stone Desert, Titanium White, Meteor Grey
Coating	Special customize sealing paint based on Green Standard
Material	HDF wood

 

2-Stage Frame description

Motor type	Dual
Lifting speed	1.2”/sec
Lifting capacity	330 lbs
Noise level	40 dB
Height range (without top)	29.5" - 48.5"
Height range (with top)	30.7" - 49.7"
Length range	40.4" - 70.9"
Frame foot width	26.4"
Material	SPCC steel
Colors	Stone Desert, Titanium White, Meteor Grey
Outlet voltage	110-240V
Anti - collision	Yes

 

3-Stage Frame description

Motor type	Dual
Lifting speed	1.6”/sec
Lifting capacity	330 lbs
Noise level	40 dB
Height range (without top)	26" - 51.5"
Height range (with top)	27.2" - 52.7"
Length range	40.4" - 70.9"
Frame foot width	26.4"
Material	SPCC steel
Colors	Stone Desert, Titanium White, Meteor Grey
Outlet voltage	110-240V
Anti - collision	Yes

Autonomous SmartDesk 2 L-Shaped

Perfect for multitaskers, the SmartDesk 2 L-Shaped provides plenty of workspace for dual monitors, paperwork, and more. Its ergonomic design supports productivity while maximizing corner spaces.

SmartDesk 2 L-Shaped

591 reviews

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Top description

Dimensions	Full: 77”L x 64”W x 1”H Large Top: 77”L x 29”W x 1”H Small Top: 29”L x 35”W x 1”H
Shipping Dimensions	84"L x 35"W x 5"H x 95 lbs
Colors	White, Black, Walnut
Material	Warp-proof MDF wood

 

Frame description

Motor type	Triple
Lifting speed	2.3”/sec
Lifting capacity	400 lbs
Noise level	50 dB
Height range (without top)	28.4" - 47"
Height range (with top)	29.4" - 48"
Length range	42” - 71”
Frame foot width	27.5"
Material	SPCC steel
Colors	White/ Black
Outlet voltage	110-240V
Anti - collision	Yes
Shipping Dimensions	Box 1: 54"L x 12"W x 8"H x 51 lbs Box 2: 35"L x 21"W x 9"H x 55 lbs

 

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
The L-shaped design offers extensive room for monitors, laptops, and other work essentials.	Larger size and weight may complicate the assembly process.
Triple motor system with a 400 lbs lifting capacity ensures strong, reliable operation.
Operates at a low noise level of 50 dB, keeping your workspace serene.
Easily switch the desk’s orientation to fit any workspace layout.
SPCC steel frame with BIFMA certification provides long-lasting stability.
Designed for quick assembly in just 15-30 minutes.
Premium finish from White, Black, or Walnut, with warp-proof MDF wood tops.

• 

  "The L-Shaped desk is exactly what I needed. It’s spacious, sturdy, and looks great in my office. The electronic controls are easy to use, and the four preset height options are super helpful. I also appreciated the thorough packaging—everything arrived in perfect condition." - Rickey P.
• 

  "This desk has given me the flexibility I need for my home office. The L-shape is perfect for keeping my work and personal projects separate but within reach. The desk is sturdy and looks great, though it did take some time to assemble." - Kevin2
• 

  "I needed a large desk to accommodate my work setup, and this one fits the bill perfectly. The L-shape allows for a lot of versatility, and the desk feels very stable. The height adjustment works smoothly, though assembly was a bit time-consuming." - Ronnie C.

Autonomous ErgoChair Pro

The ErgoChair Pro is a fully adjustable chair designed to provide optimal lumbar support. Features like adjustable armrests, headrests, and recline options make it a versatile choice for any workspace.

Autonomous ErgoChair Pro

2790 reviews

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Specs

Dimensions	29”L x 29”W x 46” - 50”H
Seat dimensions	20”L x 20”W
Seat height	18” - 20”
Back dimensions (w/o headrest)	21”W x 22”H
Back dimensions (with headrest)	21”W x 28” - 31”H
Tilt range	22°
Armrest height	11” - 14”
Armrest height (from the floor)	26.7” - 32.2”
Caster wheel diameter	2.36 inches
Number of caster wheels	5 pieces
Materials	Polyester fabric with molded foam interior and durable nylon plastic frame; PU handrest pads.
Colors	Cool Gray, Evergreen, All Black Red Apple, Black & White, Baby Blue
Weight capacity	300 lbs
Item weight	48.5 lbs
Shipping dimensions	29”L x 27”W x 19”H x 67 lbs
Assembly required	Yes
Warranty	2 years
Free returns	30 days The trial and return policy does NOT apply to products on sale.
Adjustability	Headrest, armrest, back tilt angle and tension, seat tilt and height.

 

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
9 adjustable points, including headrest, armrests, and seat height, ensure personalized comfort.	Assembly required: May be challenging for some users.
Synchro-tilt mechanism: Reclines at a 2-to-1 ratio for balanced lower back and leg support.	Weighs 48.5 lbs, making it harder to move.
Breathable mesh: Prevents overheating, keeping you cool and focused.
Flexible lumbar cushion: Adapts to your spine's curve, reducing pain and stiffness.
Available in multiple stylish colors.
Supports up to 300 lbs with a durable nylon plastic frame.

 

• 

  "With its cutting-edge design and customizable features, this ergonomic masterpiece takes my comfort to a whole new level. The adjustable lumbar support ensures optimal posture, while the breathable mesh keeps me cool during those intense work sessions. But it doesn’t stop there! The ErgoChair Pro’s intuitive controls allow me to find the perfect seating position, whether I’m typing away or brainstorming creative ideas. Plus, the premium padding provides heavenly comfort, making those long hours at the desk feel like a breeze." - Christopher A.
• 

  "I would highly recommend you start with this chair The ErgoChair Pro is fully adjustable, completely supportive, and super breathable. You can adjust pretty much anything including the height, armrest, headrest, backrest and even the seat tilt. It’s got 5 lockable recline positions and even comes with flexible lumbar support for any seated position. One of my most favourite features of the Ergochair Pro is actually the woven mesh back. On the occasions where I am seated for many hours, the mesh back keeps me chilled and helps me focus on my work for a longer period of time." - Panayiotis G.
• 

  "Worth the upgrade Currently, I'm using an ergonomic chair, and it's incredibly comfortable and well worth the investment. It has made a noticeable difference in my daily comfort and productivity. I'm also planning to upgrade to a standing desk to further enhance my workspace."

  - Polina P.

Autonomous ErgoChair Ultra 2

For those seeking premium comfort, the ErgoChair Ultra 2 combines advanced ergonomic features with high-quality materials. Its sleek design and superior support make it a luxurious addition to your home office.

ErgoChair Ultra 2

1 reviews

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Specs

Dimensions (w/o headrest)	28”L x 28”W x 41” - 46”H
Dimensions (with headrest)	28”L x 28”W x 49” - 58”H
Seat dimensions	18”L x 18”W
Seat depth range	18” - 20.5”
Seat height	18” - 23”
Headrest	8" - 12"
Back dimensions	20”W x 23”H
Tilt range	25°
Armrest height	7” - 11”
Armrest height (from the floor)	23.5” - 27.7”
Caster wheel diameter	2.56 inches
Number of caster wheels	5 pieces
Materials	100% TPE and polyester fabric upholstery with ABS plastic frame, aluminium base
Colors	Onyx Black, Dover Gray
Weight capacity	320 lbs
Item weight	36.5 lbs
Shipping dimensions	28”L x 17”W x 31”H x 45 lbs
Assembly required	Yes
Warranty	2 years
Free returns	30 days
Adjustability	Headrest, armrest, back tilt angle and tension, seat height.

 

• 

  "Feel like it's from the future. There's still some foam lining the top of the seat, but the springs are doing plenty of work to make this chair comfortable. A rubbery liner separates these two layers to spread your weight more evenly across the springs, and it all sits atop an inch-high air gap that allows for better shock absorption." - Adam S.
• 

  "Great for someone over 6 foot with long torso Loving the new Ultra 2! Finally found a chair the actually makes my back feel better when I'm setting in it. I typically have an issue with the lumbar support being way too long on my back. Not with the Ultra 2, the design of the backrest fits to my back like a glove. If I had to complain about anything it would be that I didn't go for the headrest, but that one is on me." - Heath L.

Summary

When deciding what to do with an extra room in a house, turning it into a home office is one of the best investments you can make. A well-planned home office boosts productivity, enhances comfort, and adds value to your home. By carefully assessing the room’s layout, choosing ergonomic furniture, and creating an organized and inspiring space, you can transform unused space into a functional workspace that meets your needs.

Whether it’s the Autonomous SmartDesk 2 or the ErgoChair Pro, the right furniture will elevate your home office experience and make working from home a joy.