Home is Where the Office Is

Up until a few years ago, the term "home office" called up images in many people's minds of that dark room where Mike Brady retreated every evening.He would close himself off and do who knows what for a few hours. We only saw him when Greg or Jan popped in for some fatherly advice or a little cash.

Those dens and libraries of the recent past often served as a refuge for the man of the house. He would retreat there after dinner to pay the bills or catch up on work away from the hectic office.

Understated elegance reigns in this beautiful library. The stunning arctic-white floor by Kahrs and a Heat-N-Glo fireplace surrounded by gorgeous marble from Ceramic Tile International combine to create a stylish environment. The unique wood desk from Pyranak serves as a tasteful focal point, while a hand-painted screen, an R.J. Imports rug and a LampCrafters lamp add flair.

With the advent of the Technological Revolution of the '80s and '90s, however, home offices have received a makeover. As the cost of computers, faxes and deluxe phone systems becomes affordable to a growing number of people, home offices are springing up everywhereÑand they're not just for the man of the house anymore.

People are turning extra rooms--or even unused corners--into home offices now. Kids surf the Internet and working parents telecommute to work when kids are off school. The more deluxe offices feature separate entrances and enough space to host clients. A freelancer can even collect information from around the world without ever having to change out of his or her pajamas.

This informal office, which serves double duty as a guest room, is the perfect spot for kids to write a paper and for you to keep track of family finances. Plenty of storage space allows you to stash unsightly records and other clutter out of sight. Highlights here include the Hunter Douglas blinds, Floor Trends carpet and Pyranak furniture.

Whatever the situation, chances are that someone in any household would benefit from having a quiet and comfortable place to finish homework, pay the bills, add the finishing touches to a proposal or just make a few phone calls while still within earshot of the kids.

Take a tour of these homes to gather ideas for your own office. And remember, like they say, your imagination is the only limit to what you can do.