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Smart concepts for the home office

Press release from January 09, 2023
In times of the corona virus, the home office has become the main workplace for many. In the future it will be an integral part of working life in many professions. Functionally furnished, it offers a good retreat for undisturbed creativity.



The top rule for the home office is: it must provide space for undisturbed work. If a separate study is available, this is usually not a problem. Smaller apartments, on the other hand, require flexible solutions. Wherever possible, subsequent changes to the floor plan, for example by pulling in drywall, can ensure a closed workplace. “Anyone who lives for rent needs the landlord's written consent,” explains Isabell Gusinde from BHW Bausparkasse. Alternatively, mobile partition systems or sliding walls are available, which offer good visual and sound protection.

Set up the office properly
Labor researchers recommend that the workplace be exposed to direct daylight or that daylight lamps be used. Good lighting promotes concentration and saves energy. All work equipment should be within easy reach, an open shelf with compartments is recommended for documents. Ergonomic seating is a must. Decorative boxes ensure order and invigorating color accents. Houseplants should also go to the office. They purify the air and create more comfort.

Tax deductible
"If the home office is the center of all operational and professional activity, expenses for equipment, renovation, electricity or partial rent can be claimed in full in the tax return," emphasizes BHW expert Isabell Gusinde. In many cases, workers are asked not to go to work during Covid-19, but to work in the home office. There is a "different job" available here, but it must not be used by the employee. For 2020, he can therefore exceptionally deduct expenses for a home office up to a maximum of 1,250 as advertising costs.