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converting a high-ride condo into a business office

2 years ago

I have decided to relocate my law office from downtown Chicago to a condo that we own in a high-rise building. I want to create different zones for different activities. Does anyone have experience with such a project. It will not be used for residential purposes but I want it to feel “ homey” and comfortable.

Comments (9)

  • PRO
    2 years ago

    I think good storage is going to be key…office furniture tends to err on the side of function over looks, while items that emphasize looks wouldn’t necessarily be functional in an actual work office. And with office equipment comes a tangle of cords. Even my iMac, with just the one power cord turned into a mess once I added a hard drive backup, and a phone charger, and the internet cord when Wi-Fi acts up, etc.

  • 2 years ago

    Agreed! Any advice?

  • 2 years ago
    last modified: 2 years ago

    Look at modular furniture for storage, or even seating. You can start with chain stores like ikea, crate and barrel, google for more stores. If you can find a diverse selection of good quality matching modular storage furniture, you can repurpose it if you change locations or arrangement later.

    I have modular storage furniture pieces that I bought decades ago that are still current and in good shape. They have been used for just about everything, including office, tech, clothing, decor items and closet storage. Most of them have cabinet doors. Some are cubes with baskets. Some have been used as end tables and a TV credenza. There is even a matching bar that I now use to store linens. A countertop level or bar level surface can be very handy for work - it’s my favorite place to work on the iPad while standing.

    Cords are never easy. I drilled holes in the backs of some of my modular furniture. It’s always been a pain to reach the cords though. You might want to think through the whole tech configuration before you begin. Maybe have an easier way to access cords from the back, like a back door.

  • PRO
    2 years ago

    Is this allowed in thecondo building with in the rules. Where I live most condos do not allow businesses to run from a unit. As for making it look comfy . I would just post a list here of the zones you need and a floor plan to start. I think alot depends on those issues for sure . Do you have a receptionist for instance ? Where do you speak to clients , ?IMO nice good quality furnishings for sure not cheap stuff like you would use in a home office .I think all the actual printr, fax etc can all be in one bedroom not on display at all . Wireless helps to keep this where it is needed and out of site. Yor security will be abig deal since you keep very personal and important items in the space . How good is the security in the building?

  • 2 years ago

    Need more information. How many people need to sit in the waiting room? How many employees do you have? Do you want to keep the kitchen? Do you need a conference room? Does any of your staff need a separate office? You’ll need to get contracts in to give you estimates.

  • 2 years ago

    Thanks.
    The building is very secure and has a 24/7 doorman and on-site FT manager. We bought it pre-construction in 2003. We have always had tenants and maintained close relationships with all staff. The building manager is “very excited” that we are taking possession. She says operating my business from there presents no problem. I checked. My impression is that this is another attitude undergoing change since Covid.

    There is more to consider: I will maintain a virtual office in the loop that will continue to provide my phone, mail, and conference room needs. I have decided to hire a virtual (remote) paralegal. I work on cases with other attorneys who have their own locations.

    The unit is 2 bd/2bath. Although I want 1-2 workstations in addition to my office, I will be working alone most of the time. I want different areas for projects of different types: 1. estate planning law practice; 2. business financial consulting, 3. on-line CBD dispensary; 4. craft studio/ she shed; 5. media corner for zoom/vlogging. So it’s my personal slice of professional heaven.

    There is a split floor plan with bdrms on either side of a long combined LR/DR that faces an open kitchen that is separated by a counter.

    I am nearing retirement age and the move represents an initial step in my transition away from my traditional law office and towards a lifestyle that includes a beautiful space that accommodates my various interests while still generating income.

    LRCB

  • 2 years ago

    1. estate planning law practice; 2. business financial consulting, 3. on-line CBD dispensary;


    Why a need for different physical spaces for these? Do they not all occur on a computer and could be done from the same physical work zone? Could you set up three areas: Work, zoom, and hobby/relaxation?


    Glad you get to have this fun space before you retire.

  • 2 years ago

    Check your zoning regulations: the building manager is not the final authority. Running an online CBD dispensary is definitely something whose legal status needs checking.

  • 2 years ago

    BTW, you may be able to correct the typo in your post's heading- Houzz software usually allows some time to do this before freezing it.