When space is limited, think vertically

A typical office rarely has space for anything more than a desk, credenza, bookcase and file cabinet. I find with my clients that often, they forget about the vertical space in their office. It’s important when setting up or reevaluating your current office space, to think vertically and put your walls and corners to work.

• A good place to start is with shelves. Add shelves above or next to your desk to gain more storage space and to reduce desktop clutter. You can use open shelves or a hutch that sits on your desk to increase your storage space. (You will need to put your desk against a wall if you use a hutch.) A tall, four-shelf bookcase – ideally with adjustable shelves – can hold dozens of books and reference materials.

• I prefer an L-shaped arrangement because of the two work surfaces. And don’t waste the corner: It’s the ideal place for a copier or printer. It’s out of the way but within reach. I just bought a desk and the extra surface is perfect for spreading out papers.

• Several years ago, I set up my home office in a spare bedroom. Most of my furniture was from CF-Direct.com – still one of my favorite furniture sites. I used an antique dresser to hold my printer, fax (it’s long been retired) and reference books. Inside, I stored office supplies. Look at the furniture you have in your house. Could you move something to your home office that is both functional and fits the style of your home office?