We often talk about small space solutions and sharing a space at Apartment Therapy. When we caught an episode of The Office last week, the Michael Scott Paper Company set up shop in a mere 165 sq ft, well, room and we had a chance to see how 3 people would share and work in this teeny-tiny space. After the jump check out some of their tips that work and some that don't (We have a feeling sitting in your "own" corner doesn't really work for the average small space home owner).
Michael's tip for sharing the small work space was to share a computer (literately) which ended in a battle of the machine. The reality is couples or roommates can share a very small office if they communicate their needs for the space at the time and keep it organized. We shared this single desk in our old place and it worked out well.
Although super small, Michale and co. placed a few things on the walls, including a message board. Going vertical in a super small space is a great way to utilize sometimes unused parts of a home. Plus it draws the eyes up and adds some dimension.
Seating and space is definitely tight in Michael's office and to take a breather, Pam simply turns around from her desk-turned-poker table and faces the wall. We hope you don't have to do this in your small space. Instead, get pieces of furniture that can do double duty like an coffee table ottoman that can become a seat or a garden stool side table that can also be a seat.
In super small spaces, there may not be another room for you to go to to take a breather from your partner or roommate. When sharing a small space, get out of your space when you need to. This will make for a happier you and a happier home. Michael seems pretty happy!
Do you share a super small space with someone? We'd love to hear your favorite tips or solutions for using your space and sharing your space.
[Screengrabs via Hulu - The Office/NBC]
Check out more small space sharing posts from Apartment Therapy:
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We have 4 people in a 165 sq feet. Its not really as bad as the show makes it out to be. I think we maybe have better selected furniture for the space.
view Jose A's profile
This post made me smile :) I think that a lot can be done in a small space, and I love your idea about using furniture that can be versatile. Thank you for sharing!
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This is absolutely hilarious! Who knew we'd be taking tips from "The Office"?
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view EWood's profile
This episode was SO good. Glad to see you find a post in it.
view shlacking's profile
This episode made my skin crawl, probably because it reminded me of horrible places I'd worked in the past. On the plus side, Michael was fully dressed.
view aaakid's profile
Not so much the space, but having to share one computer is like fighting over the remote control.
view KidMoe's profile
LOL this was sooooo funny.
"I don't want to go make the copies, because then I'm the girl that makes the copies."
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