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With advances in technology, whether wireless Internet or state-of-the-art communication systems, accessibility and affordability have meant that working from home is a reality. A home office is considered an important part of a home.

So, how does one go about creating one? Shweta Gupta, Partner, Soulscape Furniture & More advises, "First you need to write down what you will be doing from your home office. Your office space at home could be used for a conference with your team or it could serve as your private corner for very serious work.

Mostly the home office needs a computer linked to the web, printer, scanner and telephone. Some more elaborate ones also need tablets, speakers, mic, camera and gaming consoles. In all, this could mean a lot of cables which must be concealed." The interiors should neither be overly professional and understated nor too loud and informal.

"The office space should be effectively distinct from the home environment. Personal preferences of colour, choice of design and layout, whether contemporary, modern or traditional should be kept in mind. Don't use dark colours; use shades of white, pastel shades of blues and green which will lighten your mood," says Harshawardhan Jayant Honmode, Division Manager for Architectural Markets, 3M India.

It is preferable to have your home office in a designated space where you can work in isolation, away from distractions. Ventilation and natural lighting are the two most important aspects for creating an ideal work environment.

"Make sure that the room has ample doors and windows to let in enough fresh air and sunlight.A bright and airy room makes for an ideal workspace. In case this is not available, then consider investing in full-spectrum lights and using a couple of air-purifying plants. Also consider the use of an AC to maintain air quality and temperature where natural ventilation is not possible. Use carpeting and create barriers to block noise. If you can afford it, consider wiring the walls with the new hybrid telephone cable that mixes traditional copper lines, coaxial cable and fibre-optic technology," says Kochutommen Mathew, Kochuthommen Associates.

It goes without saying that the furniture in the home office needs to be both comfortable and ergonomic. The area also needs some storage to keep your laptop/system, books, CDs and stationery. "The chair used should be ergonomic with height adjustment, tilt and adjustable arms," says Gupta.

Modular fittings work well in this space. "Instead of a real desk, you can opt for one or two dining tables with a comfortable chair. You should have the space to work, so go for the biggest option possible," says Christian Beettjer, Head Design, OMA Living.

"A home office desk unit in durable materials like wood, steel or glass and which integrates compartments for all PC parts and also storage for essential items will help transform your home office into a professional environment.