Designing an office or studio attic

by Qinjiang Beal 04/14/2024

attic room

When it comes to choosing a location for a home studio, attic and basement spaces are often at the top of the list. These areas are far enough removed from the regular living space to not cause as much disturbance, while also giving you the unique opportunity to utilize a previously useless space.

However, an attic home office or attic studio can pose some interesting design challenges. If you're interested in setting up a studio in your attic, here's what to know:

What is an attic?

An attic is the area in a house between roofs on the higher floors in a home. Usually attics have insulation and occasionally heat and cooling equipment too. Unfinished attics usually require adding electrical wiring, drywall and flooring to become livable.

How to build an attic studio

If you're lucky, your attic might already have flooring, windows and wiring installed. If not, you'll need to begin with a basic "finishing" remodel.

Before you begin working, have a contractor inspect the space. They will check for adequate ceiling heights, escape routes and other structural safety factors. This will also help you if your local building codes require a permit before remodeling.

How to work with an angled ceiling

The most iconic and charming aspect of many attics is a steep, angled ceiling. However, this feature can also make an attic space tricky to decorate. Some great tips for building an attic office space or studio include:

  • Opt for custom storage solutions and shelving that work with the ceiling shape.
  • Install blinds or screens for skylight windows to control the amount of natural light.
  • Choose low-profile furniture to accent the space without making it feel cramped.

What else can you do with a small attic?

In addition to a studio or home office, a small attic can serve a variety of purposes. You could convert an attic into a dream walk-in closet, a craft room, a miniature library or a playroom for kids. If you like houseplants, a sunny attic room can make a perfect indoor greenhouse space.

No matter how you decide to decorate your attic, these tips and ideas will help you get started on the right path.

About the Author
Author

Qinjiang Beal

Jane’s knowledge, experience and skill set are uniquely suited to assisting her clients to either acquire or sell real estate. She brings to the table the real estate acumen, enthusiasm, cultural sensitivity, and a personal dedication to the individual needs of each of those she represents.
From Hangzhou - the Silicon Valley of China, her international business background and MBA education have built a solid foundation in her keen business acumen. Ability to communicate in three languages - English, Chinese Mandarin and Japanese, further allow her to remain on the cutting edge of the underlying theory and trends in the real estate business. Her clients get not only the available information on properties and financing, but how these trends might relate to their personal situation and decisions in the short and long term.
“My career devotion also means that I put the utmost importance upon my integrity and reputation. I care and truly treat each client’s property as if it were my own. My clients may rest assured that they will always be fully and intelligently informed, and that I will be available to them on a 24/7 basis. This has always been my primary mode of operation and I believe my clients are entitled to no less. ”  - Jane Qinjiang Beal