In these unprecedented times, more and more of us are finding ourselves working from the comfort (or perhaps discomfort) of our own homes. What was once a luxury has now become a necessity, and that means creating a functional and inspiring home office space is more important than ever.
As someone who has been working remotely for years, I can attest to the vital importance of having a dedicated workspace, no matter how small your living situation may be. It’s not just about maximizing productivity – it’s about maintaining a sense of structure, separating your work life from your home life, and cultivating an environment that actually makes you excited to get down to business.
Luckily, with a little creativity and some expert-approved tips, you can transform even the tiniest nook into a chic and highly functional home office. I’ve done the research, consulted the design gurus, and compiled everything you need to know to create your own stylish, personalized workspace. Get ready to wave goodbye to that makeshift desk in the corner of your bedroom and hello to a home office that will have you looking forward to your 9-to-5 (or, let’s be real, your 7-to-midnight).
Embrace Unexpected Furniture Pieces
The first rule of creating a home office that feels anything but sterile? Ditch the traditional office furniture and get creative with your surfaces and seating. As MyDomaine explains, “Instead of shopping in the office section, try looking for creative ways to repurpose other types of pieces. Think credenzas, dressers, side boards, or buffets. It will give your working space a warmer and homier feel.”
For example, a vintage wooden dresser can easily double as a stylish desk, while a cozy armchair or plush pouf can provide a comfortable spot to curl up and brainstorm. And don’t overlook the possibilities of a dining room table – many designers are opting for these larger surfaces to create a more spacious, inspiring work area.
“Giving yourself a large surface area to work with can be more beneficial than you realize,” notes Architectural Digest. “If you’re someone who works on multiple tasks, more room can allow for easier transitions while still looking sophisticated.”
The key is to think outside the box and choose furnishings that not only serve a functional purpose, but also elevate the overall aesthetic of your home office. After all, this is a space you’ll be spending a significant amount of time in – shouldn’t it be as stylish as the rest of your abode?
Incorporate Pops of Color and Personality
Once you’ve got your furniture situation sorted, it’s time to turn your attention to the finer details that will truly make your home office shine. And contrary to popular belief, a chic workspace doesn’t have to be confined to a neutral color palette.
“Adding color can help liven up the atmosphere and even energize you to get your work done,” says MyDomaine. “Not big on going all out with color? You can opt to introduce it in smaller ways, such as colorful technology.”
Consider swapping out your standard black or white printer for a vibrant, eye-catching model, or accessorizing your desk with a cheerful organizer or statement lamp. And don’t be afraid to hang some bold, inspiring artwork on the walls – it’s an easy way to infuse your space with personal flair.
“Artwork, candles, and even blankets will make it feel even cozier,” adds MyDomaine. After all, the whole point of creating a home office is to cultivate an environment that you actually want to spend time in. A little personality goes a long way.
Prioritize Comfort and Ergonomics
Of course, style and aesthetics aren’t the only important factors when designing your ideal home office. Comfort and functionality should be just as high on your list of priorities.
“Finding a task chair with adjustability is one of the most important elements in your office,” explains MyDomaine. “Proper support, height, and angles for typing and screen viewing have a long-term impact on our well-being.”
Investing in an ergonomic, high-quality office chair may cost a bit more upfront, but it’s an invaluable asset that can save you from chronic aches, pains, and other unpleasant side effects of poor posture. And don’t forget about the importance of proper desk height – you want to ensure your eyes are level with the top third of your computer screen to avoid strain.
Beyond your seating situation, consider other ways to optimize your home office for maximum comfort and productivity. Spacejoy suggests “using the vertical space available in your home office and putting in shelves for additional storage.” Keeping your surfaces clear and your supplies neatly tucked away can do wonders for your focus and mindset.
And don’t forget the power of proper lighting! “Bright sunlight is a natural mood-enhancer,” notes Spacejoy. “If you don’t have access to natural light, we suggest investing in good ambient lights for your home office. Lighting sets the mood, and you don’t want your work environment to feel dull or dark.”
Add Personal Touches for Inspiration
At the end of the day, your home office should be a space that not only functions well, but also energizes and inspires you. After all, you’ll be spending a significant chunk of your day here – why not make it a place you genuinely enjoy spending time in?
One of the best ways to do this? Infusing your workspace with personal touches and mementos that hold meaning for you. “Adding some personal decor pieces – photos, mementos, etc. – can help tie the office into your home,” suggests MyDomaine.
And don’t be afraid to get a little creative with your display methods. Spacejoy recommends using “walls as workspaces ideal for to-do lists, brainstorming, inspirational words/art, etc., by using marker boards and/or chalkboards.” Pegboards, cork boards, and even tapestries can all serve as eye-catching backdrops for your personal trinkets and reminders.
Bringing in elements of nature can also work wonders for your productivity and mood. As MyDomaine points out, “Adding a few low-maintenance plants…can add a fresh, uplifting feel to spaces.” Surrounding yourself with a little greenery is an easy way to breathe new life into your home office.
At the end of the day, the key is to create a workspace that feels like an extension of your personality and aesthetic. Whether that means hanging up inspiring artwork, displaying cherished family photos, or simply incorporating your favorite colors, the goal is to craft a space that motivates you to do your best work.
Embrace the Unexpected
One final piece of advice I’d offer when designing your dream home office? Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and embrace the unexpected. Some of the most stunning and functional workspaces I’ve come across have incorporated unique, one-of-a-kind elements that elevate the space in unexpected ways.
Take, for instance, the hybrid home office/master bath that photographer Steven Meisel created in his Beverly Hills abode. As Architectural Digest notes, Meisel “came up with the idea and sheathed the bath area in green onyx; the teak screen was designed by Brad Dunning, who also decorated the home.” Talk about a space that seamlessly blends form and function!
Or consider the office in a Manhattan penthouse designed by David Kleinberg, which features Chinoiserie wallpaper that “creates a peaceful environment – looks like springtime is in full bloom year-round,” as Architectural Digest describes.
The takeaway? When it comes to creating your dream home office, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment, take risks, and infuse your space with unexpected, eye-catching elements. After all, this is your personal oasis – it should be a reflection of your unique style and personality.
So what are you waiting for? It’s time to ditch the bland, cookie-cutter home office and create a workspace that will have you looking forward to your 9-to-5 (or, let’s be real, your 7-to-midnight). With a little creativity and these expert-approved tips, you’ll be well on your way to designing a functional, stylish, and truly inspiring home office that will boost your productivity and energize your workday. Happy decorating!
