Sure, a desk and chair stuffed into a quiet corner technically count as a workspace, but a dedicated room for work is ideal if you have the space for it in your home. A dedicated office will maximize productivity and maintain a sense of structure and create a clear distinction between work time and home life. 

Working from home is here to stay, but an office environment doesn’t have to be all business. In fact, your work area can be beautifully tailored to reflect your unique needs and style. I believe that putting as much thought into your home office design as you would the rest of your home makes taking care of business much more enjoyable.

To help pull off this transformation, I thought I’d share a few tips for creating a perfect home office. Whether you prefer a clean and timeless aesthetic to put your mind at ease or a lively scheme sure to spark imagination, you will find inspiration in this blog post…

Choose a colour scheme you love

Colour is the most transformative element in design because when it’s good, it’s really good, and when it’s bad, you don’t just see it; you feel it too. Consider how you want to feel in the space when deciding on your office colour scheme. Ideally, you want shades that get your work motor humming. For some people, that’s a subdued palette with pops of colour or texture here and there to limit distraction. Others would prefer to outfit the room with whimsical wallpaper to inspire a happy and energetic vibe. 

Some people like the idea of colur but are worried about how to introduce it. I understand, and to help you, I wrote a blog post all about how to introduce colour into your home tastefully. Other people have a hard time determining their style, so if that is you, have a look at this blog post I wrote all about how to find your unique interior design style to get you started. And, of course, Instagram and Pinterest are great spots to turn to for inspiration if you’re looking for home office design ideas.

Craft a video-worthy backdrop

Key to a perfect home office is a space that feels interesting, and with Zoom meetings suddenly at the center of everyone’s lives, it’s even more critical. 

To elevate things, your Zoom background should be thoughtful and reflect your style. For example, a tasteful hue or pattern strikes just the right amount of interest, built-in cabinetry gives styled appeal and keeps your organization in check, and a beautiful piece of artwork is always a fabulous addition (especially if it’s meaningful because that’s a great conversation starter). 

Don’t sacrifice form for function

Anyone who has worked at a desk for hours knows it can do a number on your back, neck, and shoulders. Investing in well-constructed furniture that enhances your overall comfort is an investment in the quality of your work. Given this, proper height and support are crucial for well-being.

 Luckily, there is a plethora of ergonomic products with top-of-the-line flair to complement anyone’s taste. Before purchasing, consider the type of furniture you’ll need to accomplish everyday tasks. Office sets that feel standard or boring are not the only option. With some thoughtful planning, you should be able to find pieces that add visual interest and reflect your style to create a home office that will make your days happier.

Incorporate homey touches

Certain design elements are required for a home office’s day-to-day function, while other pieces can enhance the comfy feeling of the room. For example, featuring an upholstered sofa or chaise may not seem necessary, but in my opinion, it is the perfect finishing touch to office decor. It adds softness and interest to the room and provides a comfortable spot away from your desk for catching up on quick calls or an occasional brainstorming session. 

If space doesn’t permit a sofa, a lounge chair and footstool can also up the room’s style and comfort by several notches. And something as deceptively simple as an area rug can tie the room’s elements together. I love placing one under a work desk or an informal seating arrangement to provide an extra dose of texture or colour and comfort underfoot. 

And don’t forget to add home decor items to finish the space. Think plants, flowers, accessories, books and candles. These elements will add layers to the room, making it feel more complete and styled. 

Get your lighting spot on

If you’re one of the lucky few with a room blessed with beaming, sun-drenched windows, make the most of your natural light. And if you aren’t, consider upgrading your artificial lighting scheme and ensure it ticks all the types: accent, ambient, and task. When planned right, layered illumination that adapts to how you want to use the space can guarantee higher productivity. Remember, lighting doesn’t have to be purely practical, so be sure to have fun with some decorative lighting pieces if you come across anything that speaks to you. More questions about how to light your home office? I’ve got you covered. 

We’d love to help you

With thoughtful consideration, it’s possible to create a perfect home office that makes getting through a 9-to-5 day or burning the midnight oil all the more pleasant. If you’re looking for more ways to craft a tailored environment to work and feel your best, drop us an email and let’s book a call to discuss how we can support you in your design journey.  

Chat soon!

Staci