The modern kitchen has become far more than just a place to cook three meals daily. Today's kitchen is a gathering place where families and friends can come together to eat, chat, and even do business. With the addition of kitchen offices, these home areas become even more efficient and busy. Here are a few tips for setting up an efficient and up-to-date home office, no matter the size of the kitchen. Kitchen office space has become so popular that many newer homes have the space already allocated and ready to use.

Choose the Space

Choose the space for the kitchen office that will be accessible and easy to modify. Most kitchens have "dead space" that's not being utilized, but any table or open counter space will suffice. Ensure an electrical outlet is nearby for charging devices and other power needs.

If a "dead zone" can be used as a kitchen workspace, use the wall with a dry-erase board, cork board, chalkboard paint, or organizational baskets hung on the wall to maximize space. Installing cork boards can be essential in dealing with a busy schedule, and reminders are helpful. Hang a calendar or map out the busy week on a dry-erase board so the family can keep up. Spaces under the stairs are also perfect for out-of-the-way office space.

Drawers and Cabinets

To maximize storage and efficiency in the home workspace, use existing drawers or cabinets to store office supplies that will need to be handy. If there's no space available, add some rolling drawers under the desk to keep pens, paperclips, paperwork, books, and business cards nearby.

If shelf space is also sparse, combo bookcase/drawer sets are available that are stationary or roll to keep up with the constant movement of a stay-at-home worker. Pull-out shelves are also great for printers and other needed equipment that are better out of sight. Storing these items out of sight also protects them from dust and extreme environments sometimes found in busy kitchens, including toddlers and pets.

Adding Space

Consider using a rollaway island if there is no dead zone or extra space in the kitchen area. These are great for "on-demand" office space that can be rolled out of the way to allow for traditional kitchen tasks, like cooking! Depending on the design, these rollaway islands have built-in shelves and storage, so there will be space for all the work necessities.

Adding a hutch can also help to add some space and already built-in storage. It also has the added benefit of only being exposed when in use, similar to utilizing a closet space.

A folding desk could also be an option for tight spaces. These install directly onto the wall, with no desk legs. When not used, the desk folds flat against the wall to keep it out of the way.

Get Organized

Since space will likely not be abundant, keeping organized is important. It also makes the work day go more smoothly and efficiently. Organize and label magazine boxes for shelves to quickly access what's needed. Wood boxes can add a dash to style, or cute wicker baskets can add some warmth.

If the exposed shelves or under desk storage don't match the kitchen decor, add a pretty curtain, and no one will even know the kitchen office is there until it's needed.

Allowing for multiple options for family members to grab a quick glass of water can keep the kitchen area organized and traffic low. There are beautiful options like this single-handled cold water filtration faucet from Kingston Brass. This faucet is shown in brushed nickel, but it's available in eight different finishes that match any kitchen decor. Paired with a water filter system this faucet will give the family crystal clear drinking water without disposable plastic bottles. This item is constructed of durable, reliable brass and meets ergonomic standards for the ADA. Great for one glass or filling up drinking containers for families on the go. This faucet works with an under-the-counter water filtration system.

Kingston Brass also offers reverse osmosis water system filtration faucets, like this one from the Concord Collection. With air gap technology, this drinking water faucet prevents contaminated water waste from backing into the system. An under-the-counter filtration system is also compatible with reverse osmosis air gap water filtration faucets.

Available Power Outlets

As mentioned earlier, a power outlet must be in a home or kitchen office space. The last thing any homeowner wants are unsightly wires and plugs running through the kitchen. It's never wise to mix sharp kitchen tools with trip wires. If there's no available outlet in the space, it may be worth hiring an electrician and having one put in. If that's not possible, strategically place power strips.

Proper lighting is also a must to avoid eye strain and excessive squinting. Try to position the kitchen office near a window for natural lighting or, if there's not a window and no space for a desk lamp, try under cabinet lighting just above the workspace or on the wall.

Using Closet Space

There might be a closet perfect for converting if there's absolutely no space in the kitchen for a home office. The main advantage of using a closet is the wonderful doors that can hide the space and keep equipment and valuable paperwork out of the way and out of danger of being thrown away or destroyed. Add a desk, drawers, and shelves, and the kitchen office is born. And, even though it's close at hand when needed, it can be hidden away when not in use.

Easy and Efficient

Whether the home office is in a closet or right in the middle of the kitchen island, accessories from Kingston Brass can make it run more efficiently and do it with style and function. Take a look at the variety of options, from water filtration faucets to water dispensers and soap dispensers. A few accessories can keep things running smoothly in any kitchen office and make doing business a breeze.