Design Blog
Design Tips for Work-from-Home Office Spaces
What’s one of the most significant trends in interior design in 2020? The home office!
Domestic workspaces have become a focal point. More and more people – up to 42% of working Americans, according to Stanford University – are currently working from home. In this Design Connection Inc. blog, we’ll explore tips for designing a functional and attractive home office, and creating a flexible workspace in your home if a dedicated office is not an option.
Traditional Office: The Classic Library
Design Tip: Bookshelves literally make or break a library. Books are weighty, so choose quality shelving that is at least 1 ½ inches thick or greater so that they maintain their shape.
For this classic home library remodel, Design Connection, Inc. added custom-built bookcases in a deep brown finish and coordinating hardwood floors. We covered the walls in a soft grass cloth wallpaper. A stunning leather-top desk is the focal piece of furniture. The cabinetry was specially designed to keep document files organized, accessible and out of sight.
Transitional Style: The Two-Person Work Space
Rolling up your sleeves and getting down to work is easy in a space this amazing!
Our client needed a productivity-inspiring space for two people. We incorporated two large workspaces and separated them with a shared peninsula for an extra work surface when needed. We kept some of the original cabinets, darkening the finish to match the cabinetry we added to the space. Concealed electrical cords keep the space feeling organized, and silver wallpaper adds a luxurious touch.
Design Tip: The peninsula provides our clients with a space to review projects with their customers. To eliminate chair clutter, we designed these elegant ottomans on casters that can be rolled over to the peninsula for extra seating.
The office includes a comfortable seating area for customers and visitors. Our clients are avid travelers, and a large world map marks the destinations of their frequent trips. It provides the perfect backdrop for the seating area!
The Enlightened Man Cave
For his new home office, my husband Ed wanted a space to himself where he could work, read and relax. Design Connection, Inc. designed a space that is anything but cave-like! This space is filled with light and personal meaning. We configured the open shelving so that he can display books, mementos and photography. Directional track lighting allows him to focus the light where he needs it.
The office is also a great place to catch up on news and favorite shows. The wall-mounted television screen is ready when it’s time for a break!
Design Tip: This room has a dual purpose – it’s also a guest bedroom when family come to visit. A Hollywood bed is a must-have for versatile spaces like this. It provides a relaxing seating area during the day, and guest accommodations for holidays and extended family get-togethers.
The Elegant Work Corner
Sometimes, a dedicated home office is not the best option. Either space is at a premium, or work is done primarily on a laptop.
This corner of my den is the ideal place for my work area. The clean lines of the desk and open metal base add a stylish touch to the room. It’s great for checking email and taking videoconference meetings, or for spending an afternoon working from home.
Comfortable chairs face the television screen on the wall, and enclosed storage cabinets keep office supplies out of sight. Proof that you can have a beautiful room – and a sunny space to work that your furry friends will love, too!
Work Space Options
Design tip: For small or dual-purpose spaces, look for desk with an open base. A metal base in a gold or silver finish is a good choice. It gives the desk and open feel and functionality without the dominance of a traditional office desk.
The Ambella Hendrick Writing Desk
This writing desk like this one, from Ambella Home Collection, is a beautiful and practical addition to a room. The 3-drawer desktop seems to float above the desk’s unique metal base.
The Ambella Addison Writing Desk
If your style is mid-century modern, Ambella’s Addison writing desk is a sleek option! This one-pedestal writing desk has two generously-sized drawers, an antique gold leaf base and antique gold leaf hardware.
The Global Views Holborn Desk
Another option with an open feel, the circular motif adds graceful lines to this desk’s profile. Classic with a modern twist, this desk features mother-of-pearl inlay and a center drawer with brushed nickel hardware.
To see more projects, view the Design Connection, Inc. portfolio HERE – and on HOUZZ
The Design Connection Inc. team hope that all of our clients, suppliers, partners and readers are staying well.
Our best to you all,
Arlene Ladegaard and the Design Connection, Inc. Team
Arlene@DesignConnectionInc.com.