How to Create a Home Office where the Magic Happens
Ah, my friends... What a crazy world we’re living in, right? Between watching the girls while also trying to run my business, it feels like life is a bit out of control.
To be honest, when this whole situation started, I knew working from home was going to become the new normal for a lot of people. But I wasn’t prepared for how long we would all be working from home. And if Google and Amazon offer any indication, offices won’t be opening until early or even spring 2021. (Just… wow.)
But if there’s anything I can be confident of, it’s that our homes are taking on new meaning and increased responsibilities these days. And that’s at least something we can control! (I’ll take it!)
So this month’s blog post is for my fellow work-from-home’rs. Those of you who still have your computers set up at your kitchen countertops or have your laptop and half-empty coffee cups scattered across the dining table.
If you’ve been putting off your home office and are finally ready to get a space that inspires you and makes the magic happen… here are 7 ideas I think you’ll love!
1. Nook Turned Home Office
While we all may long for an entire room dedicated to peace, quiet, and creative energy, sometimes a nook is all you need. This kitchen nook has easily become an inspiring work space with simple furnishings, natural light, and a great view.
Get the look:
modern floor lamps for tasked lighting
comfortable modern chairs (comfort is important!)
A working table with ample leg room
a lively plant (for energy and movement)
one helluva view!
2. Dining Room as a Home Office
In general, traditional dining rooms don’t get a lot of use in this century (and even less so these days). Sure, they look grand and inviting around the holidays, but I’ve found that most renovations are removing the dining room altogether to add more living space to the rest of the home.
Instead of tearing down those walls, why not turn it into a majestic office space?!
Get the look:
a long table for work activities, snacks, papers, etc.
statement lighting, well-placed for working
comfortable mix of modern & traditional chairs
A rug to ground the space and feel cozy under your toes (who wears shoes these days?)
gorgeous case goods for additional storage
colors that will help you feel how you need to — relaxed, inspired, reflective, etc.
Here’s another Dining-room-turned-office with a very different look but a similar approach!
3. Built-in Desk with a view
Here’s another crafty option for those who might not have an entire room at their disposal… pick a wall! I love how this built-in desk offers plenty of working space, leg space, and storage, while taking up very little room overall.
Get the look:
Pick a wall, any wall… just kidding. Pick a wall with natural light and a view!
Hire a craftsman to build a custom desk just for you
Make sure you have storage readily available
Add a comfortable modern chair for good looks
don’t forget a lamp for burning the midnight oil
add a plant for refreshing energy!
4. Modern traditional office with moody hues
You know i had to include at least ONE modern traditional home office idea. This beauty has everything going right for it…
Get the look:
Opt for a handsome live edge desk…
…and a sexy leather chair to match
Add a large fiddle leaf fig tree for a burst of refreshing nature
Pick a bold patterned rug for interest
Select dark drapes and a moody hue for that comfortable, all-tucked-in feel
add a gallery wall for interest and inspiration
5. Channel your inner artist
Why create a traditional office space when you could have one that’s as creative as you hope to be? renowned modernist architect Lina Bo Bardi’s desk in sÃo paolo is a work of art on its own.
Get the look:
use simple, modern furnishings for the desk and chair
add modern touches in the lighting and decor
match it with sheer, flowing drapes for a dreamy look
6. Walk Through History & Make it, too
Here’s another desk from Caracas, Venezuela, designed by famous italian modernist designer, Gio ponti, in 1957. This desk is the epitome of mid-century modernism, and pairs so playfully with this geometric rug. You’ll feel like you’re living and making history with a home office like this!
Get the look:
Select a desk and chair that are creative and quintessentially modern
Pair it with a large patterned rug containing 1-2 bold colors
Add decor and simple curtains
7. Turn Your Living Room into a Work Commune
Last but not least, whoever said your work space had to be traditional? Co-working spaces and even libraries all over the Bay Area offer communal seating, with sofas and chairs eager to help you while the hours away. Personally, I would love to turn our living room into a library and work space that looks like this!
Get the look:
transform your built-in into a well-stocked, colorful library
add a modern sofa in a soothing yet saturated color
pair it with patterned chairs for a boost of inspiration and creativity
add a natural wood table and earthy rug to keep the space grounded
Season the space with colorful art and decor
don’t forget floor or table lamps for lighting
Make sure you have your coffee maker close at hand… this space has all the cozy vibes! ;)
And there you have it — 7 stunning yet very different home office / home workspace ideas. If you need some help pulling together your own home work space, reach out to me here!
Design can truly elevate how you live every day. Together, we can create an environment that gives you exactly what you need: creativity, focus, energy, you name it.
Until next time, stay creative, stay sane, and I’ll see you soon!
Xoxo,
Susie