Tiny Office, Big Impact: Space-Saving Solutions for Small Home Office
Workplace Inspiration

Tiny Office, Big Impact: Space-Saving Solutions for Small Home Office

|Jun 2, 2023
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With the rise of remote work, home offices have become an essential part of many people's lives. However, not everyone has a lot of space to work with. Whether you're a newbie to the work-from-home lifestyle or a veteran, a tiny office can make a big impact on your productivity and creativity.

In this blog post, we'll explore some space-saving solutions for creating a tiny home office and highlight five accessory dwelling units (ADUs) that can be used as a tiny office.

Why an ADU for a Tiny Home Office?

If the kitchen table is not your ideal working environment, but you are short on space, consider adding an ADU to your home. A separate room that will cost only a fraction of what adding an extension to your home would, an ADU is a no-brainer when it comes to a tiny office space.

These backyard structures come in various sizes and styles and can be customized to meet your specific needs. Plus, they offer the added benefit of separating your work and home life, allowing you to truly switch off when the workday is over. 

Why an ADU for a Tiny Home Office?

Space-Saving Tiny Office Ideas

If you're sold on a tiny office shed, you may now be wondering how to maximize your limited space without sacrificing comfort or productivity. Fortunately, there are plenty of space-saving solutions that can help you make the most of your ADU home office.

Here are a few tips to get you started:

  • Use a fold-down desk: This is a great solution for those who need a workspace occasionally. When not in use, the desk can be folded up against the wall, saving valuable floor space.
  • Invest in multi-functional furniture: Look for furniture pieces that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a storage ottoman can be used as a seat, a footrest, and a storage solution all in one.
  • Utilize wall space: Install shelves, racks, and hooks on your walls to create additional storage space for books, files, and office supplies.
  • Use a small filing cabinet: A filing cabinet is essential for keeping your paperwork organized, but it doesn't have to take up a lot of space. Look for a compact, vertical filing cabinet that can fit under your desk or in a corner.
  • Opt for a minimalist design: When it comes to decor, less is often more. Keep your ADU home office clutter-free by using a simple color scheme, minimal furniture, and only displaying essential items.

By following these tips, you can create a functional and comfortable ADU home office that maximizes your limited space. With the right design and organization, your tiny office space can have a big impact on your productivity and overall satisfaction. 

Now that we know an ADU is the way to go for a tiny office, the question is, what are some options for a shed to have an office set up? There are many options, ranging from tiny prefab cabins to more complex modular ADU. To ease the decision-making process, we have picked out the best options on the market. 

Space-Saving Tiny Office Ideas

Here Are Our Top 7 Picks for a Tiny Office

1. Autonomous WorkPod

The WorkPod is a 98 sq. ft self-contained prefab ADU that is an excellent choice for a tiny office. The pod includes built-in lighting, air conditioning, heating, and sound insulation. With a minimal price tag, it is also one of the more affordable options yet packs all the features of the high-end ADUs.

Autonomous WorkPod

Autonomous WorkPod

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Dimension8’6’’W x  11’9’’L x 11’H
Ceiling height6’10’’ to 9’4’’
Window materialWooden frame, 5/16” tempered glass
Door materialAnodized aluminum frame,  5/16” tempered glass
MaterialSiding: bitumen, housewrap, vinyl silding
Roof: bitumen, housewrap, shingles roof
Floor: plywood
Balcony: composite wood
IncludeOptional: SmartDesk Connect, ErgoChair Pro+, Dual Monitor Arm, Cable Tray, Steel Cabinet, Anti-Fatigue Mat. Always included: Electrical Cabinet & Bookshelf
Floorspace98 square feet
Capacity2.9 tons

2. Autonomous StudioPod

This modern shed packs great features, such as huge windows and insulated walls, for a great working experience. It is one of the more spacious options with a floor space of 105 sq. ft, allowing you to have everything you need within your office. It also comes with a one-year warranty.

Autonomous StudioPod

Autonomous StudioPod

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Dimension8’4”W x 12’6”L x 9’10”H
Floorspace105 square feet
Ceiling height7’3”
Weight capacity2.9 tons
Pedestal18”W x 43”L x 7”
Window & door materialPowder-coated aluminum,  5/16” tempered glass
MaterialSiding: plywood 1/2”, steel frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8”, bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding
Roof: roof shingles
Floor: plywood
Pedestal: steel frame & wood plastic composite
Electrical devicesRCB, Wall outlet, Ceiling light switch, Ceiling light, Ventilator switch, Ventilator, Ethernet wall port, 66ft power cable with 2 connectors
IncludeOptional: Cabinet, Desk, Small & Big Bookshelf, TV Shelf, Foldable Sofa Table, Convertible Sofa Bed. Always included: Electrical Cabinet
Power inputMaximum voltage : 110V AC (US standard)
Maximum current : 25A
Maximum power dissipation : 2750W

3. Autonomous WorkPod Lite

For a more affordable backyard office shed solution available within the state of California, Autonomous also offers their WorkPod Lite. Engineered for users who want the same sleek design lines and high-quality build of the WorkPod and StudioPod, but at a much more accessible price point. The compact design of WorkPod Lite - with 80 square feet of floor space - provides the same flexibility to transform and accommodate any category of living space.

Home gym? Yoga studio? Office? TV room? Guest bedroom? Production studio? MiniPod can handle whatever your work life and personal life throws at it. Clean, minimal, non-fuss, MiniPod is the perfect blank canvas and kinder on the wallet. Consider the Autonomous WorkPod Lite if you are looking for tiny houses for sale under $15,000.

Autonomous WorkPod Lite

Autonomous WorkPod Lite

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Dimension8.7"W x 8.12"L x 9.3"H
MaterialWindow and door: powder-coated aluminum, 5/16-inch tempered glass
Siding: plywood 1/2-inch, steel frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8-inch, bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding
Roof: metal roofing
Floor: plywood
Balcony and Pedestal: steel frame and wood plastic composite
Pedestal24"W x 103"L x 9"H
Electrical devicesRCB, Wall outlet, Ceiling light switch, Ceiling light, Wall light, Ethernet wall port, 66ft power cable with 2 connectors
Weight capacity2.3 tons (including Pod body)
Floorspace80 square feet
Ceiling height7.3-inch

3. Allwood Mayflower

This 117-square-foot traditional-looking shed is made of high-quality Nordic wood and includes a covered patio and two large windows for natural light. It can be assembled in as little as eight hours.

4. Pagoda Shed 10'x12' by Studio Shed

The Pagoda is a customizable, prefabricated backyard structure that can be used as a home office. It's a good tiny home kit; however, with a basic cost of $26 000, it falls on the pricier side. So if you have the budget, do consider it.

Pagoda Shed 10'x12' by Studio Shed

5. Tuff Shed

Tuff Shed's Premier Pro Studio is a fully finished and insulated backyard studio that can be used as a home office. It comes in various sizes and finishes and can be customized with various features, such as a skylight or a loft.

6. Cottage Kwik Room by Kanga Room Systems

This cozy cottage-like shed by Kanga Room Systems can be customized to meet your specific needs. Its slanted roof top and front porch add character to the shed that you will love in your backyard.

Cottage Kwik Room by Kanga Room Systems

7. Modern Shed

The Modern Shed is a sleek and stylish backyard structure that can be used as a home office. It comes in various sizes and finishes and can be customized with features such as a built-in desk or a sliding glass door. 

Final Verdict

Things can go wrong if you are not a huge DIY person and decide to buy a tiny home kit. So to be safe, when opting for an ADU to convert into a tiny office, go for the best tiny home builders to ensure that you have the help of experts who know their game well. 

Creating a tiny home office is now a need, more than it was ever before. And if you're looking for a separate working space, an ADU is a great option. With our top 5 picks for the best ADUs to use as a tiny office, you're sure to find a shed that fits your specific needs and budget. With the right design and accessories, your ADU home office can be a haven of productivity and creativity. So go ahead and take the plunge, and let your tiny office space have a big impact on your work life.

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