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6 Tips for Creating a Functional Office Layout for Two

Sharing an office with another person requires planning

By Catherine Roseberry Catherine Roseberry Writer Catherine Roseberry is a former writer for Lifewire who has experience in technology consulting focused on mobile productivity. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on April 3, 2020 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Working From Home The Ultimate Guide to Shopping Online The Ultimate Guide to Online Learning at Home The Ultimate Guide to Skype A home or satellite office doesn't have to be limited to only one person. If configured correctly, any space — regardless of size — can accommodate two people. Learn how to create a functional home office space that works for two. Sharing an office space, which is becoming increasingly necessary as the number of telecommuters and freelancers in the workforce increases, requires planning and organization. 01 of 06

Making Space for Two

Hero Images / Getty Images Some considerations remain the same for both one-person and two-person offices: the placement of electrical outlets is critical to desk placement, doorways affect traffic flow, and windows reduce computer monitor visibility. In most cases, each person needs a desk, chair, file cabinet, and — possibly — a visitor's chair. A shared all-in-one scanner/printer is standard office equipment. Considerations unique to two-person offices include: The equipment and furnishings that are shared.The workflow of each person.Whether the occupants are right-handed or left-handed (yes, this does matter). Each of the example layouts in this article ​uses a one-door, one-window room, but the lessons from the layouts can be extended to fit any space.​ 02 of 06

Face-to-Face Desk Layout

Lifewire / Catherine Roseberry In this office layout, the desks are positioned where workers face each other and filing cabinets are placed in the corners out of the flow of traffic. The scanner/printer table is located near the desks where both workers can access it when needed. 03 of 06

Opposite Side Layout

Lifewire / Catherine Roseberry If the door is not centered, the desks can be placed on opposite walls with the scanner/printer table closest to the person who uses it the most. 04 of 06

Defining Workspaces With Office Furniture

Catherine Roseberry In this layout, the desks are placed on opposite walls and one filing cabinet is used to define a workspace. The scanner/printer table is set up so that either person can access it. The area beneath the scanner can be used as additional storage space. The tops of the filing cabinets can also be used for books or other storage, provided they are kept tidy. 05 of 06

T-Shape Desk Layout

Lifewire / Catherine Roseberry In this office example, the desks are placed to create a T formation. It requires one person to walk around a desk, but it leaves room for an additional chair to be placed in the corner. 06 of 06

Center of Attention

Lifewire / Catherine Roseberry This office layout places both desks facing each other, but a small divider is placed between the two desks to provide additional privacy. Extra chairs can be positioned in the corners of the room for visitors. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Change an iPad's Sidecar Position Devaise 3-in-1 TV Stand Review: Create a Modular Platform For Your TV Home Office Design Examples How to Delete a Blank Page in Word 5 Things to Consider Before Buying Stereo Speakers The 8 Best Microsoft Office Alternatives of 2022 The Best Home Office Setups in 2022 Brother HL-L8360CDW: The Professional Grade Printer your Office Needs Get Better Wi-Fi: Here's The Best Place for Your Wireless Router The 7 Best Standing Desks of 2022 Tips for Creating a Virtual Reality Room The 10 Best Working From Home Tips in 2022 CumulusPRO Standing Desk Mat Review: A Restful Place to Stand How to Create a Cool Twitch Layout in Photoshop How to Make Your Own Audio Diffusers with Concrete Forming Tubes Flexispot Theodore Standing Desk Review: Classy and Modern Office Furniture Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies