Office in Basement

[Anonymous]

We want to take part of the basement and make a small office. With the configuration, we won't be able to include a window, so we were thinking double glass doors to make it seem less like a box. We plan to put in good lighting. The double glass doors will open to an area that we already refinished. There is a glass door nearby that leads to the outside, so some light should come in the door and through the glass double doors.

Has anyone else done this? Did it turn out ok? I am hoping it doesn't seem too odd without a window.

[Anonymous]

I think it depends on what the person who is working there needs and wants as far as privacy, natural light, soundproofing, etc. There are no objective "rules" for a home office (especially given Covid-related WFH circumstances).

[Anonymous]

Hang a really nice 4k TV on the wall connected to a camera in the yard.

Or don't worry about it if the "tenant" can handle an inside space. Lots of office buildings are built this way.

[Anonymous]

Glass doors are fine but it will still be a windowless space and I wouldn’t count on feeling the effect of any natural light.

[Anonymous]

While I would personally likely be a no-go on an office with no window, it sounds like it's the best possible solution with glass doors. And for resale, if that's a concern, it sounds nice.

You could probably consider a mirror on a wall to further brighten up the space and/or a natural light lamp.

[Anonymous]

My basement office at home is a converted 5'x5' closet. I love it as it is way better than working in the kitchen. Would I like more space and a window, of course. Note that my office at work while considerable bigger is also windowless.

[Anonymous]

I think glass doors can help make it feel brighter/more open but perhaps you could have the option to curtain over them if the person wants privacy. My kids’ playroom is in the basement (as is my office) so I can’t imagine not being able to have things a bit closed off for those days they’re home.

[Anonymous]

Op here, thanks for the recommendations. I feel a bit more confident, and yes, I do think about resale in the future. Not sure I can swing the camera outside/TV on wall, though that is a cool idea. But I can put optional coverings on the glass door, mount a mirror, and maybe find some good artwork. Maybe some plants that require very little light, like bamboo.

[Anonymous]

If you have a bathroom down there, it might count as a bedroom in which case you might need an egress window by code anyway. I’m not sure, but just something to look out for.