The shift to remote work during the pandemic presented many homeowners with unforeseen challenges, demanding creative solutions to accommodate professional needs within the home. For one family, the solution came as a basement transformation. This project earned Wendy Scott of Timeless Closets and Cabinetry an honorable mention in the 2024 Top Shelf Design Awards, Home Office: Under 150 square feet category.

The “Elevated Workspace” project addressed the issue of a shared office space, where the homeowner’s desire for a dedicated, ergonomic work environment led to a basement renovation. Rather than a simple conversion, Scott envisioned a bespoke workspace tailored to the occupant’s preference for a standing desk, incorporating a suspended lift mechanism to maintain a clean, uncluttered aesthetic.

The basement’s inherent structural challenges, including bump-outs and access panels, were not seen as obstacles but as opportunities for ingenious design solutions. A prominent bump-out was seamlessly integrated into the room’s design, clad in matching materials and topped with a countertop to create the illusion of a built-in cabinet. This treatment concealed the structural irregularity and added a sense of architectural depth to the space.

Consistency and visual harmony were priorities in Scott’s design. The shelving on the right wall was aligned with the treated bump-out, creating a sense of balance and order. A crucial access panel for electrical maintenance was discreetly incorporated into the back of the shelving unit, ensuring functionality without compromising the room’s aesthetic appeal.

The project’s success lies in its meticulous attention to detail. Strategic lighting was implemented to enhance the workspace’s ambiance, with all necessary wiring and installations executed precisely. To maintain a cohesive look, all trim work, including door casings and floor mouldings, was crafted from matching materials.

A particularly innovative solution was devised to conceal the electrical components for the lighting. Rather than disrupting the existing structure, the electrician strategically routed wires from an adjacent room, dropping them precisely where needed. This approach preserved the room’s clean lines and uncluttered appearance, a testament to the collaborative effort between the designer and tradespeople.

The project’s construction phase was not without its challenges. The initial stud phase revealed uneven floors and hidden access panels, demanding careful planning and execution. The client’s desire for a consistent trim throughout the space, coupled with the need to conceal the desk lift mechanism, required a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The materials chosen for the project reflect a commitment to quality and durability. Tafisa’s “After Hours” and “Casting at First Light” finishes were selected for their aesthetic appeal and resilience. Richelieu lighting and lift mechanisms provided functionality and style, while JB Cutting supplied the countertops, doors, drawer faces, robust shelving, and trim.

Scott used KCD and Closet Pro software to plan and visualize the space, ensuring precise measurements and a seamless installation.

The “Elevated Workspace” design showcases more than functional home office space; it is a thoughtfully crafted room literally elevating the work-from-home experience.

For more information, visit timelessclosetsandcabinetry.com.

RESOURCES

Countertops: 
JB Cutting, jbcutting.com

Cabinetry, door/drawers, transitional shelving: 
JB Cutting, jbcutting.com, Tafisa, tafisa.com

Cabinet lighting and lift mechanism: 
Richelieu, richelieu.com