I love Gigi Hadid's simple yet refined fashion style, so I'll often look at her Instagram feed for outfit ideas. But while doing this, I spotted her lounging in the office of her knitwear brand Guest in Residence, and instead found myself swooning over that. 

I've asked interior designers why the space works stylishly as well as functionally, going through everything from the versatile storage to the lush plants, finding out why they work so well and how to recreate the look.

Whether you're looking for home office inspiration or want to switch up your desk space, Gigi's workspace has lots of stylish ideas to take away.

Inside Gigi Hadid's office space, functionality and elegance blend together perfectly. 

“Her office offers modern elegance with a cozy twist, creating a space that is both inviting and inspiring,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

The first thing that caught my attention was the bold and bright white office storage unit that is seriously versatile.

“This bookshelf is more than just a storage solution — it's a display of thoughtful curation, featuring lush plants, a sleek black watering can, a charming woven basket, and a mix of decorative elements and colorful binders that add pops of vibrancy to the pristine white backdrop,” she explains.

This is easy to replicate at home, whether you have existing shelves or are bringing new ones. 

“Fill each shelf with the things that represent you. It could be books, music, photos, anything — you're telling the story of you,” says David Silva, interior designer at HomRem LLC.

“Be sure to leave plenty of open space between items, as this not only prevents clutter but also implies that your story isn't over yet,” he adds.

Next to these, Gigi can be seen chilling out on the comfy window seating, which is a great way to complement bookshelf ideas in any room.

Nina continues, “The seat cushion, upholstered in a rich, velvety dark blue fabric, offers a striking contrast to the white frame, making it a standout feature in the room.”

Jewel hues like this are one of the biggest interior design trends this year, thanks to their combination of moodiness and warmth.

If you don’t have a window you can repurpose as a seat, you could always add an accent chair in a similar shade, such as the Etta Avenue Hendrix Chair from Wayfair which is highly-rated, durable, and stunning.

I also love the corkboards that can be seen on the third picture in Gigi’s post, which are such an easy way to add character while keeping documents and calendars organized.

“Corkboards are easy to mount — simply print out your favorite photos and don't be afraid to show them off,” David adds. He suggests mounting these with Command Strips from Amazon if you’re renting — I have so many of these around my house and can confirm they’re strong and long-lasting.

Our Gigi Hadid office edit

By bringing modern storage, decor, and seating into your office like Gigi, you too can create a workspace that’s chic and comfortable.

“The thoughtful combination of practical elements with stylish touches makes this office the perfect place for productivity and creativity,” says Nina.

If you want to carry on looking at celeb offices, Ashley Tisdale's office chair is dreamy and cozy.

The beautiful office space put together by married couple Emily Blunt and John Krasinski has officially proven to me you can bring together chic design without compromising on practicality.

Its industrial desk, tall shelves filled with thoughtful touches, and eclectic mixture of lighting all add to this. I have asked interior designers why these work so well in the A Quiet Place stars' home, how you can recreate the look, plus curated an edit of similar furniture and decor pieces.

When it comes to home office ideas, finding design solutions that work hard in the space will ensure you can utilize it comfortably, just like John can be seen doing in his Instagram picture.

The first thing that caught my eye in this office space is the huge desk that John Krasinski can be seen sitting behind.

“The desk's sleek black frame, accented with open storage shelves on either end, effortlessly combines utility with style,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“Meanwhile, the rolling wheels add a touch of versatility, allowing the workspace to adapt as needed — a perfect fit for the dynamic life of an actor-director,” she adds.

Surrounding this central piece are tall wall shelves that are great office storage ideas and showcase a quirky mix of personal decor.

“Here, every item tells a story: a classic globe hints at wanderlust, while a vintage typewriter evokes a bygone era of storytelling,” Nina adds.

You can fill your shelves with pieces you love, to give you an extra motivational boost in your office space. For example, you could add an eye-catching photo frame, such as the Primrose Tabletop Frame from Walmart, which has a gold finish and a detailed border.

Both the desk and shelves, as well as the room’s beautiful architecture, are complemented by the varied office lighting ideas in John and Emily’s space.

“I always recommend place lighting on dimmers in home offices, so you can control the brightness for different moods and tasks,” says Pam Hutter, interior designer and principal of Hutter Architects.

“You can also add black wall sconces, silver table lamps, and white floor lamps to create a layered lighting scheme,” Nina suggests.

Pam also advises moving your desk next to the largest window in the room like John has, to take advantage of natural light.

Shop the edit

Paying attention to simple yet important details like the desk, lighting, and storage units are all key for putting together a fab and functional workspace.

“By blending these elements, you can recreate the sophisticated yet inviting ambiance of Emily Blunt and John Krasinski's office — a space where industrial design meets personal warmth,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you’re feeling inspired by this and want to scope out more celeb office decor, Ashley Tisdale’s office chair is a cute and cozy choice.

Take a look at Hailey Bieber's Rhode office if your WFH set-up is looking a little worse for wear. Stuck in a room that's totally cluttered and overwhelming? Hailey may have the solution. 

The model and founder of beauty and skincare brand, Rhode, took to Instagram to share a behind-the-scenes look at her office. And good news Lip Tint fans, the brand's HQ is full of plenty of design inspo.

We asked design pros how to recreate Hailey's look at home. We have plenty of home office ideas that will create a calm and productive work environment, ASAP. 

Hailey Bieber's Rhode office set-up

If you're getting stressed trying to WFH, borrow some design ideas from Hailey Bieber's Rhode office. It's important to create a functional space, especially with small home office ideas where you're more confined. Work materials and other odds and ends pile up quickly and before you know it, you're feeling too distracted to focus. 

A modern small office is a good way to go if you're looking for something contemporary like Hailey's. The skincare pro incorporates design elements that are sure to make a calming home office space in no time. No matter if you're a fan of the brand's products (the viral Rhode Lip Case, anyone?) or just looking for fresh ideas, we've got you covered.

Scroll through her slideshow to get a full look at the sleek Rhode offices.

From the color palette to the decor accessories, the Rhode office is great for a pared-back look. "Like the brand's packaging itself, Rhode's office is super chic and minimal," says content editor, Danielle Valente. 

"The decor is kept to a minimum and the products are the star of the show. The warm neutral color palette is relaxing and inviting without looking clinical, which can happen in minimal spaces."

Hailey's office is also a great source of inspiration for some home office storage ideas. "Hailey decorates the walls with some floating shelves which ass clean lines to the overall look. She uses just a few of her products out on display so everything important is within reach."

How to recreate Hailey Bieber's office look

Looking for a neutral small office? Then the color palette is the first place to start. And you don't have to stick to one uniform look. Danielle adds, "Hailey mixes cool shades of gray found on the Rhode packing with warm beige and brown. The contrast adds dimension and interest to a room that could otherwise look washed-out."

You can get a similar color scheme by painting your walls with Lick Beige 01 (a warm white with yellow undertones) and Lick Grey 02 (a light gray with lilac undertones). 

Then declutter your small space to get rid rid of excess mess that may be overwhelming the room. Install some floating shelves on the wall to store useful items and decor. Everything you need on a day-to-day basis will be on-hand so no more digging through drawers and boxes. 

It wouldn't be Hailey's office without some trendy furniture and accent pieces. Look for furniture that isn't too bulky and comes in neutral tones. 

Danielle adds, "Hailey's chairs look just as comfy as they are beautiful. They have a modern feel with a simple silhouette, pairing sleek lines with a soft fabric. The side table in the middle adds some visual interest in a subtle way." 

Lastly, you'll need a couple of decor pieces to make the room pop. Hailey uses plenty of indoor plants to add some natural greenery and organic shapes. "When in doubt, some leafy plants like fiddle leaf figs or monsteras can really make a difference," says Danielle. 

With a few simple additions or a fresh coat of paint, it's not hard to makeover a small office on a budget. Take a few pages out of Hailey's book and your small office will look luxurious with just a few upgrades.

Suki Waterhouse's cozy studio is a great place to kick back and let endless inspiration flow. 

The model, musician, and first-time mom was photographed in a retro, boho space with a guitar by her side, and as a result, creative types like yourself might be in search of similar styles. 

Small office ideas like Suki's are fun yet productive, and it's important to strike a balance between the two. We asked a designer how you can achieve the retro aesthetic and stay on your A-game artistically. 

See inside Suki Waterhouse's cozy studio

Curious how to feel motivated in a small office like Suki? The key is to have a place where you can be comfortable, but not so comfortable that you start to doze. Case in point: the velvet sofa. 

"It's essential to strike a balance between opulence and comfort," designer Nina Lichtenstein says when discussing Suki Waterhouse's cozy studio. "Start by choosing a velvet couch in a rich jewel tone, such as emerald green or deep navy, to create a focal point in the room."

Wayfair's Liano Velvet Sofa in Goldenrod Velvet or the Bonrcea Modern Sofa Tufted Couch on Amazon are both solid jumping-off points for achieving what Nina refers to as "eclectic charm." (Psst: here's how to clean a velvet couch, according to the pros.)

"Pair [your couch] with plush throw pillows in complementary colors and textures to add depth and visual interest," she adds. "To enhance the luxurious feel, accessorize with metallic accents and soft, ambient lighting."

And to keep the inspo flowing, Nina recommends sentimental accents.

"Personalize the space with artwork, photographs, and meaningful objects that inspire creativity and reflect your unique style," she says. "Maximize natural light and incorporate plenty of greenery to foster a sense of tranquility and inspiration."

However, looks will only take you so far when it comes to making over a small office à la Suki. You need to have furniture that will help you stay focused and small office storage ideas are necessities. Something like the Industrial Charm Utility Cart with Wheels from Wayfair will keep your creative ideas in place and clutter-free. Don't forget to add things like a versatile desk or ergonomic chair, either. 

What to shop

If Suki Waterhouse's cozy studio is your jam, these pieces will help channel a similar look.

Trying to find more easy small office upgrades and small studio upgrades? We asked the experts: here are seven ways to zhuzh up your WFH and creative space,  according to the pros. 

Finding narrow office ideas will help you decorate your space, even if you have nothing but an aisle to work with.

We've asked interior designers for their top tips for decorating home workspaces without much square footage. Multifunctional furniture and mirror magic are just some of their favorite fixes for this space.

If you're looking for home office ideas and have a space lacking in width, finding ideas for narrow-shaped rooms is the way to go.

Neat narrow office ideas

These tips, tricks and small office ideas will help make yours a more inviting place to be productive in.

Our experts have suggested stylish, specific buys throughout, so we have sought these out for you.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Change the layout

You don’t necessarily need to splash any cash to change your narrow office. Simply refreshing your small office layout ideas can make it work better for you. 

“Carefully consider the layout of your narrow office to maximize efficiency and flow,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“I recommend positioning your desk along the longest wall to create a focal point and make the most of the available space,” she adds.

You could also consider room dividers to zone out areas and create visual separation without sacrificing space (this Beachcrest Home Genoveva Room Divider from Wayfair even has handy shelves).

2. Use multifunctional furniture

One of the keys to maximizing space in a narrow office is choosing furniture with more than one function.

“Use slim furniture that works hard, like desks with inbuilt storage (we love this Martha Stewart Shaker Desk from Wayfair) or foldable surfaces,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

It’s also a good idea to think of the pieces beyond your desk that help you maintain a streamlined space, such as the best storage ottomans (this Lavish Home Storage Ottoman from Amazon has over 4,000 five-star reviews).

3. Make it adaptable

If you know you might need your narrow office for other purposes, keep it as versatile as possible.

Nina suggests, “Embrace flexibility in your narrow office design by incorporating movable workstations that can be rearranged to accommodate different tasks and activities.”

To do this, consider going for modular furniture such as mobile filing cabinets (how cute is this colorful Inbox Zero Krahn Cabinet from Wayfair?) you can easily reconfigure.

This will allow you to adapt your workspace to whatever you need it to be — whether that be your office, home gym, or anything in between.

4. Utilize mirrors

Harness the power of mirrors to make your small room appear bigger to the eye and enhance natural light. 

“Install a large mirror on one wall to create the illusion of depth and reflection, making the space feel larger and brighter,” Nina says.

Not only this, but it will also serve as a useful spot to check you don't have anything on your shirt before any important video calls.

Be sure to choose a chic frame that complements your decor style (this Regina Andrew Plaza Beveled Mirror from Saks is seriously striking) and serves as a decorative accent.

5. Install a sliding door

Homeowners, this is a game-changing trick which is also one of the sleekest, space-saving modern small office ideas.

“Having a sliding door instead of a traditional swing door conserves narrow space and adds a stylish touch to the office entrance,” explains Ornella Guerrero Bianco, home improvement expert at Fixr.

This is something you could DIY yourself if you’re handy with a hammer or can bring an expert in to help out with.

6. Get organized

Being organized is super important in a narrow office space to maintain productivity and minimize mess. 

Nina suggests, “Invest in clever organization solutions such as wall-mounted shelves, desktop organizers (this Comfyroom Desktop Organizer is Amazon's Choice), and cable management systems to keep your workspace tidy and efficient.”

If you’re looking around your office and feel like it needs a clean, learn how to declutter a small space and give it a spruce up.

7. Paint with lighter colors

Whether you’re looking for neutral small office ideas or not, choosing a light and airy color palette will help create a bright, inviting atmosphere. 

Nina says, “Choose neutral hues like soft whites, light grays, or pale pastels for the walls to make the room feel more spacious.”

You can always add pops of color with vibrant artwork, decorative accents, or the best indoor plants (this Costa Farms Pothos Plant is highly-rated on Walmart) to inject personality into the space without overwhelming the room.

With these clever narrow office ideas, you can transform even the most challenging of spaces into a functional, stylish place to thrive. 

Nina finishes by saying, “Simply by maximizing vertical storage, embracing multipurpose furniture, and utilizing light and airy design, you can create a narrow office that feels inviting.”

If the office isn’t the only awkwardly shaped space in your home, you may also need dreamy narrow bedroom ideas.

You may want to bring easy small office upgrades into your space, if your WFH zone  leaves you feeling totally uninspired.

We've quizzed designers to find out what they do to zhuzh up this space without having to renovate the whole room. Eye-catching wallpaper and bright lighting are two tricks they keep up their sleeves.

For those searching for small home office ideas which are a breeze to bring in and will have plenty of impact, these are great go-tos.

Easy small office upgrades to try out in your home

Whether you're giving your small office a makeover on a budget or just want quick solutions, these easy small office upgrades are worth a whirl.

Our interiors pros have recommended products throughout, which we have curated great shopping picks for. 

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Declutter the space

It can be easy to let papers, coffee cups and clutter accumulate on your desk when you’re working from home. Removing these will instantly transform this area.

“Once you’ve done this, you can add a set of clear acrylic organizers (we like these Vtopmart Drawer Organizers which are Amazon's Choice),” suggests Tommy Mello, design expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

He adds, “You can add these on your desk or use them to put everything in the drawer, so all the clutter from your table will just vanish.”

By opting for an acrylic material, you’ll be able to see what you have easily, so you won’t lose your favorite pen again.

2. Bring in mirrors

One of the best ways to make a small office appear bigger is by bringing in mirrors, and they are easy to install, too.

“In small offices, I often use mirrors to reflect natural light, as this adds to the aesthetic and the feeling of space,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

Simply hang one on the wall opposite a window (this Mercury Row Snell Mirror from Wayfair is a glam choice) to create the illusion of spaciousness.

3. Opt for modern touches

Create a polished look by choosing modern small office ideas which are sleek and ultra-chic. 

“Opt for modern touches like geometric shapes or metallic elements to add sophistication,” says Ricky Allen, interior designer and director at Ever Wallpaper.

He explains, “These effortless updates not only make a striking impression on clients but also promote a more dynamic and innovative working environment.”

For example, this Tangkula Geometric Bookcase from Target has so much space for all your books and files.

4. Glow up with lighting

Beautiful small office lighting ideas are easy small office upgrades, as they’ll zhuzh up both the aesthetic and the functionality.

Tommy explains, “If you work late at night, a desk lamp will stop you straining your eyes, and offset the computer screen’s light so it doesn't give off a harsh glare.”

Some desk lamps can also handily hold stationery, such as this AXX Small Desk Lamp from Amazon.

5. Add a vibrant feature

Make your small office space a more inspiring place to work by adding in a colorful feature.

“Incorporating vibrant wallpaper on one wall or on all the walls can instantly refresh an office,” says Ricky.

We think this Graham and Brown Retro Wallpaper from Target would add a striking look to any workspace.

If you’re renting and can’t do this, you could always opt for wall art prints instead, which you can hang up with damage-free adhesives such as these Command Strips from Amazon.

Artem suggests, “Curate a gallery wall to create an art exhibit you can periodically change up, as an easy small office upgrade.”

You could even bring in vintage storage boxes from secondhand furniture stores to add color and texture.

6. Choose indoor plants

Whether you want to add just a couple or create a tropical vibe, the best indoor plants are easy small office upgrades.

“Bring greenery into your office with low-maintenance indoor plants, as these can brighten the mood and purify the air,” says Artem.

Introducing plants can also infuse a sense of inspiration and uniqueness into the room. We like to dot around succulent plants in offices (these Shop Succulent Plant Packs on Amazon are Amazon’s Choice), as they only need watering once a month.

7. Finish with a footrest

Easy small office upgrades can also include making it more comfortable to work in your space.

Tommy says, “I recommend finding an adjustable footrest you can put under your desk to support your feet. It brings the floor to you, which is great if you're short and find it hard to lay your feet flat on the ground,” he explains.

We’re stealing this advice and adding this Leermart Foot Rest from Amazon to our carts, as it offers ergonomic support, is easy to clean, and adjusts with four settings.

By adding even a couple of these easy small office upgrades to your space, you can change how you feel about it.

“You do not need a large number of things — just be sure to choose small but impactful upgrades which elevate the look as well as make it easier for you to work in the office,” Tommy finishes by saying.

For those looking for a touch more sparkle power, you also can learn how to make a small office look luxurious.

Employing effective small office storage ideas is essential for creating a motivational work environment. Keeping work-related essentials neatly stored also ensures your home and work lives stay separate, so you can switch off at the end of a busy day. 

Whether you have a dedicated small office or you’re looking for ways to integrate one into your communal living space, our pros are on hand with stylish storage solutions to suit, with a few space-boosting buys penciled in, too. 

Functionality is key of course, but don’t be afraid to get a little creative with small space storage ideas in a home office. Inspirational surroundings boost productivity, as well as mood, so feel free to style up shelves as you like. 

Small office storage ideas 

The best small home office ideas are those with savvy solutions that enable not just neatness, but effective home office organization ideas, too. 

When it comes to home office storage ideas, there’s no ‘one size fits all’ approach. Needs vary across households, depending on the size of the space, as well as who’s using it and what for, so consider your requirements carefully and pick storage solutions to suit.

1. Utilize every nook

Think of ways you can utilize unused space in communal rooms to create designated office storage, whether it be an empty alcove, fireplace, or our favorite, an unused closet — simply close the doors to hide everything away at the end of the day! 

Depending on your needs, you could build a desk or use it purely for storage. For the best of both worlds, try the Trent Austin Little Italy Desk from Wayfair, it fits neatly into small nooks and has inbuilt storage above, leaving space underneath for a stool. Its sleek silhouette makes it perfect for modern small offices. 

Bespoke cabinets, shelving, and drawers ensure no inch goes to waste, but if you’re looking for renter-friendly small space DIYs to try in your place, store-bought versions work just as well. Be sure to measure up properly beforehand and don’t forget to factor in door and drawer opening areas. 

2. Set up an easy filing system

If your in-tray is constantly in overflow mode, a sensible filing system needs to be a priority. If you haven’t got the room for a filing cabinet don’t panic — there are other options available. 

“An uncluttered environment is essential for productivity, so we recommend storing paperwork inside desk drawers using KTRIO file holders from Amazon”, says professional organizer Shannon Krause, co-founder of Tidy Nest. “Storing papers upright makes them much easier to identify and access, plus prevents unruly paper stacks building up.”  

Another option is to line a shelf with uniform magazine folders, mount clips to the wall, or invest in a moveable unit like the graphite mesh stackable file crate from The Container Store. Each cube features side rods for hanging folders and has built-in handles so it’s easy to lift.

Whatever you decide to do, be consistent with your labeling, so you can keep track of what’s where.

"Position file tabs in a straight row to avoid your eyes darting back and forth and arrange them in alphabetical order", says Ashley Murphy, co-founder, and CEO of NEAT Method. 

3. Hide storage in plain sight

A foldaway desk is a space-saving solution in communal rooms (or if you want to fit a desk into a small office without it feeling cramped), but you’ll need to take a similar approach to storage if you want to avoid clutter building up. Examples include upholstered ottomans with concealed compartments and coffee tables with hidden inserts.  

You don’t have to buy pieces specifically designed for multiple uses, of course. Think of ways you can adapt what you already have. These Home Depot under-bed storage boxes on wheels at Walmart offer easy access storage in a bedroom office, for example. 

4. Use stackable storage

“Going high instead of wide is a great technique when you’re short on space, so opt for stackable storage where you can. Clear caddies are handy as you can see what’s inside at a glance Alternatively, these chalkboard labels from The Container Store are handy for easy updates," says professional organizer Heather Aiello, founder of The Organized You.   

5. Divide your drawers

Save yourself the hassle of rummaging around for what you need by using drawer dividers. Measure the inside dimensions of each drawer, including height, width, and depth to ensure you maximize on storage space and separate your sections by category; stationery, sticky notes, staplers, and so on. 

“A label maker (try the Brother P-Touch Cube Plus from Amazon) is one of the most important items in our supply kit. Labeling files, drawers, and/or bookshelves will maintain organization but also increase productivity by eliminating wasted time searching for items”, says Shannon.  

This Brightroom Monitor stand from Target also makes for a smart addition to your desktop. It’s got a drawer with compartments already built in, perfect for storing essentials you use all the time. 

6. Streamline your desk space

“It's important to nail your desk organization ideas so you’ve got space to open your laptop, fill out paperwork, or shuffle paper files. Keeping a desktop organizer to hold all of your most frequently used items is the perfect solution to keep everything from migrating all over your desk”, says professional organizer Lauren Saltman, founder of Living Simplified. We love this modern farmhouse writing desk from Pottery Barn for a sleek and sophisticated look.

She also recommends the Bigso Eliza desk organizer from Wayfair. Available in various shades, its textured paper finish makes for a stylish yet understated addition, it’s got seven compartments so you can corral items by category. 

7. Keep cables under control

There’s nothing like a mass of tangled cables to up your stress levels, plus you run the risk of damaging expensive tech. Standard cable tidies are a good solution, but experts advise taking things one step further if you want a stylish finish. 

“We recommend this 6-in-1 bamboo charging station from Amazon”, says Shannon. It charges up to six devices simultaneously and comes with a wall output plug which helps to keep your desktop neat and tidy. It keeps all your devices in one centralized place while hiding all those annoying cords within its interior”. 

8. Mount a pegboard

The beauty of a pegboard is that you can customize it to suit your office storage needs, plus it takes up zero floor space. The Brightroom pegboard set from Target, pictured above, can be attached to the wall or a cart, and comes with a range of accessories including hooks, cups and clips. 

For accessibility, consider assigning storage to each family member, so you can move them around depending on who’s using the space. Use the clips to hang inspirational pictures and photos alongside memos and to-do lists, to help boost motivation during late-afternoon lulls. 

9. Incorporate shelving

A modular open shelving unit adds ample storage to a small home office without feeling too imposing, and the shelves are adjustable so you can max out on space. If you’re lacking in square footage however, floating shelves are the more feasible wall storage idea. You could even mount one low on the wall and use it as a desk idea. 

10. Let storage double up as décor

You’ll need to ensure any open storage (such as shelves, cabinet tops and bookcases) remains neat and tidy if you want to avoid a cluttered feel and make a calming office space at home. Opt for stylish storage baskets to hide away ugly office equipment, then add photo frames, succulents and accessories for a practical yet decorative display. 

Choose designs that suit your home office ideas, or if you’re conscious of budget, opt for something neutral, like these versatile WeThinkStorage rattan baskets from Target. Made from natural seagrass, they go with any scheme, so you won’t have to update them everytime you redecorate. 

11. Use the back of the door

Walls aren’t the only vertical space you can maximize in a small office – the back of a door offers prime storage potential, and you have the bonus of being able to hide what’s there by closing (or opening) it. 

“Use an over-the-door shoe organizer to store office supplies like pens, tape, stapler, envelopes etc. I recommend choosing clear designs (try this Room Essentials clear over-the-door shoe organizer from Target) so you can quickly see what you have and locate what you need without searching through every compartment”, says professional home organizer Michelle Urban, founder of The Organized House.

If you’re planning to hang an organizer on the back of a cabinet door, be sure to measure up beforehand, to ensure you can fit things on the shelves and close it successfully.

12. Keep things moving

If your ‘home office’ tends to be wherever you sit down with your laptop that day, flexible storage might be the solution for you. A trolley on wheels that fits neatly inside a closet can be rolled out and hidden away as required. This KINGRACK utility cart from Wayfair comes in pink or white and has tiers, so you can categorize the contents easily. Use shallow trays or repurpose plastic cartons to keep small-scale items neat and tidy. 

13. Repurpose containers

It’s tempting to invest in pretty baskets and bins, but it’s not always necessary, particularly if you’re using them inside closed office storage. In fact, it’s perfectly possible to refresh a small home office without spending money, simply by repurposing items you’ve already got. 

A slimline cutlery tray is a good example, it slides neatly into a desk drawer and is perfect for separating stationery. Shoe boxes are useful for storing notebooks and files, while toilet roll holders keep cables tangle-free (simply roll them up and pop them inside). 

When it comes to organizing a desk, vintage-style jam jars look stylish and have the added benefit of being clear, so you can find what you need quickly. 

14. Hide away tech

Printers, scanners, screens and other bulky tech can be tricky to place, particularly if you need access to them often. Rather than cluttering up desk-space (and ruining your room’s aesthetic) consider integrating them into your existing storage system so they’re hidden, but easy to get to. 

If you have wireless tech, they can go straight into cabinets or a deep drawer, but if not, think about investing in a storage unit or desk with media-friendly components built in, such as cable outlets and power strips. 

Alternatively, opt for a portable printer stand from Wayfair, that you can tuck away neatly into a closet or underneath a desk when not in use. 

15. Go paperless

It sounds simple, but one of the easiest ways to free up storage in a small home office is to go paperless. It’s so easy to do these days, you’ll just need to dedicate a chunk of time initially to shred pieces you no longer need, then simply ‘opt-in’ for digital versions, or scan them on to your computer, going forwards. It’s much better for the environment, too. 

“There will be some papers you do need to hold onto, so consider investing in a small paper filing system that you can tuck under a desk or keep in the bottom of a closet. A document organizer can be a helpful storage solution as well”, says professional home organizer Britnee Tanner. 

Whether you’re working with a dedicated room, an under stairs nook or small living room office ideas, ensuring you have storage to fit is the best way to streamline any work zone. You’ll find your productivity levels on the up, too.  

Working out how to make a small office look bigger will make your space feel much more comfortable to work in. 

We've spoken with interior designers who all have experience in styling offices to find out what they do when faced with a smaller space. This includes everything from illusion tricks, to clever furniture pieces.

For those looking for small office ideas, making the space look expansive is a key part of making it a stunning place to thrive in.

How to make a small office look bigger

For those re-arranging their small office layouts, you may find it useful to find out how to make appear bigger at the same time, too.

Our experts have recommended useful products throughout, so where possible we've found matching buys.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Start with a lighter color scheme

If you want to make your small space look airy, bringing in the best colors for small offices is a wise idea.

“Opt for light, neutral colors to enhance the feeling of spaciousness. Soft hues on walls and furniture can visually enlarge the room while adding a touch of elegance,” says Jakecia C. Durham, principal designer and owner at Desired Design.

In terms of specific colors and shades, our experts recommend going for Scandi-style off-white and wooden textures.

“Cream, with its soft and light tone, serves as an ideal base, creating an illusion of spaciousness and enhancing natural light,” says Ana Coddington, lead interior designer at Archival Designs.

She continues, “When you pair it with light wood — like birch or maple — you've got yourself a beautiful match that perfectly complements each other.”

This combo is a game-changer for smaller spaces, providing the perfect balance of light and warmth.

2. Choose multifunctional furniture

In your small office, every single inch of space counts, which is why it’s a good idea to fill it with useful furniture.

“Imagine using pegboard ideas for storage (this Skyfoost Pegboard on Amazon is Amazon's Choice) that also makes a cool visual statement or a desk that has hidden compartments for all your different items,” says Malak Bellajdel, interior designer at Malak Bellajdel and designer at Pet Portraits.

Jakecia agrees, adding, “You could also get a desk with a pull-out extension for extra workspace (we like this Homsee Home Office Desk on Amazon) or a filing cabinet that doubles as a side table.”

This versatility maximizes functionality while minimizing the footprint of furniture in the room.

3. Change where your work zone is located

This is a useful trick for those who are looking for quick ways to transform their small office. 

Malak explains, “Think about placing your work zone so you can see the door without being right next to it, as this will make the room feel bigger right away.”

Once you've worked out how to fit a desk in a small office, Malak recommends choosing a desk that lets you stand or sit during the day. For example, this tall 17 Stories Cylan Adjustable Height Desk on Wayfair would be ideal.

“It changes up the energy and keeps you feeling good,” she adds.

4. Go for a variety of lighting

Brightening up your home office with small office lighting ideas will make the space look brighter, which will in turn make your small office look bigger.

Malak explains, “Lighting is everything! A nice lamp can do wonders, making your office feel warm and cozy.”

Jakecia suggests going for a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit and inviting atmosphere.

She adds, “Also, consider installing dimmer switches to control the brightness levels based on the time of day and task at hand.”

We like these Bestten Dimmer Switches on Amazon, which come in five different hues so you can coordinate them with the best colors for small offices.

“Pick something that makes you smile and lights up your space in a way that feels just right,” Malak says.

5. Bring in a mirror

One of our favorite ways to make a small room look bigger is by adding a mirror.

Ana explains, “They reflect light, giving the impression of more space than there actually is. For best results, choose large mirrors with simple frames that can easily blend in with your overall design scheme.”

If you'd like to achieve a similar look to the picture above, this Hearth and Hand Wood Framed Mirror from Target would look so stylish in any home office.

You can also experiment with different mirror placements — for example, placing a mirror on the opposite side of a window can reflect the outdoor view and make your office feel bigger.

6. Utilize natural light

As well as bringing in lights, you can also change how big your small office feels by making the most of natural light.

“Instead of relying on artificial lighting, consider adding windows or skylights to bring in more natural light,” Ana explains. 

Along with this, you can also rearrange your furniture to allow more natural light to enter your office. 

“For example, position your desk near a window or move bulky furniture away from windows to let the light flow freely,” Ana adds.

Natural light is also said to help improve productivity and mood, so it's a win-win for both aesthetics and functionality.

7. Finish with natural elements

Distract from the small size of your space by adding a few of the best indoor plants to your small office.

Jakecia explains, “Bring elements of nature into the home office with potted plants or succulents to improve air quality and add visual interest.”

She recommends choosing easy care house plants that thrive in indoor environments and placing them near windows or natural light sources for optimal growth.

Choose a variety of plants of varying heights to maximize the effect of these. We like this tall Costa Farms Yucca Plant from Walmart, which will also add a fun tropical touch.

Keep these tips in mind when you’re redesigning your small office space and you’re sure to create a place you enjoy being in.

Malak finishes by saying, “I believe a great workspace, even if it’s small, is about creating a spot where you love to be that helps you work better and feel great doing it.”

For more ways to improve this space, you may enjoy finding out the things people who work from home always have in a small office space.

The Jessica Alba Honest Company office revamp is nothing short of a colorful wonderland, as evidenced on TikTok. 

The actor and entrepreneur revealed the workplace glow-up for her new CEO in a behind-the-scenes video and it's given us some major inspo as we embark on another year of doing business from our abodes. With a setup like this, working from home will be anything but boring. 

If you're contemplating a few small office ideas for your space, consider this whimsical dream a guide to getting your vision up and running. 

Experts on the Jessica Alba Honest Company office glow-up

The deep purple shade on the walls has the potential to be one of the worst colors to paint a small office, but interior designer Nicole Cullum says, "Jessica always has something stylish up her sleeve."

The celebrity's company HQ uses the deep shade along with strategic placement, and other color choices, to bring equilibrium — not overwhelm — to the room.

"Her new colorful office balances bright colors with deep, bold hues," Nicole says. "Steal her style by adding a deep color to your walls and incorporate a complimentary color in your wall artwork and accessories. Toss a fun throw pillow or blanket over your chair for an extra pop of color."

The deep purple shade is accented with vibrant wall art, and the actor mixes textures with her neighboring pieces. You'll notice a rattan table setup, and on the opposite side of the space, a fuzzy, white bouclé chair with an ottoman for deep think sessions. 

The Braedin Upholstered Barrel Accent Chair With Storable Ottoman from Wayfair is one to consider if Jessica's has you swooning.

Don't be afraid to mix up textures or tread into vibrant territory — minimalist office ideas might not work well for everyone. As long as fun prints and eccentric colors pair well together, it will feel cohesive. 

And, if you have the square footage, add an accent chair for your small space or a shelving unit to store your work. This will break up the area and breathe a little life to it. 

What to shop

If you're loving Jessica's style, these key pieces picked out by our expert shoppers will help you get started. 

Looking for big changes with minimal effort? We spoke to designers about how to make a small office on a budget so that you'll see a transformation without breaking the bank.

Sabrina Carpenter's mid-century office chair has officially convinced us to throw our boring gray ones in the trash. The singer was spotted working on songs in her retro office chair in an Instagram story, and we immediately fell in love.

The singer is known for her sparkly outfits and fun lyrics, so it's no surprise she's brought this playfulness to her home decor game. We've chatted to design experts to find out why they love the design and how you can style it in your place.

When looking for small office ideas, don't be afraid to think outside the box and bring color in, like Sabrina has. Having a chic place to work in may even inspire you to do your best work.  

Sabrina Carpenter's mid-century office chair

Shopping for the best office chairs? If you want to marry together fabulousness and functionality, a sleek chair like Sabrina's could be the way to go. 

Why we love Sabrina Carpenter's mid-century office chair

If plain old black does not go with your creative small office idea vibe, you could go for a pop of purple like Sabrina for an aesthetic WFH office chair set-up.

“The muted mauve seat adds a touch of sophistication, conveying a chic yet understated elegance,” says Guillaume Drew, interior designer and CEO of Or & Zon.

He continues, “This hue is versatile enough to blend in, yet distinctive enough to stand out in a small office set-up. The gold accents serve to elevate the design by introducing a luxurious edge to the mid-century aesthetic."

Guillaume adds the gold accents inject a sense of glamor without compromising on the clean and crisp lines this design period is known for. It’s not just the colors our experts are swooning over, though. 

“For a small home office space, this chair offers clean lines and retro charm without overwhelming the room,” says Keely Smith, lead interior designer at JD Elite Interiors. 

Keely would style it with crisp white shelving, a brass desk lamp, and throw blankets, or accent pillows in complementary tones of blush, taupe, or emerald green. These saturated jewel tones are a small space color trend for 2024 and will add richness to your home — an easy win to create a luxe look in your small space. 

If you want to copy Sabrina's mid-century look in general in your home, Keely has some seriously stylish ideas. 

“For clients wishing to emulate this look, I often suggest layering in vintage-inspired geometric prints, marble-topped accent tables, and plush area rugs,” she says.

Get the look with these buys inspired by Sabrina Carpenter's mid-century office chair

Love Sabrina's seating style and want to bring this into your place? These will help you do this.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

By adding a colorful chair like Sabrina’s to your office, not only will you have a plush accent, but you'll also have a seat that's comfortable enough to work in 9-5. Want even more WFH inspiration? Try Ashley Tisdale’s cozy office chair.

We recently updated this article in January 2024. In this update, we added a trio of product blocks to each section, to provide you with suggestions to shop. Admittedly, we haven't bought or tested any of the items we've selected, so we have relied on picks with highly rated reviews from brands we love.

Finding new small office layout ideas isn't easy when you feel like you've tried just about everything. Shimmying and shuffling furniture, stretching cords to be as close to power outlets as possible, all while trying to position yourself under ample lighting to avoid eye strain. It's a tough ask, right?

One of the biggest challenges can be creating a small office in another room such as a living room, bedroom, or even kitchen. Then you need to find a way to make it feel separate. Fortunately — this is doable. 

We spoke with two interior designers to discover their best small office ideas. Whether it is micro-sized, in the corner of another room, or even shared with another person — these layout ideas will change the way you live and work. Finding new small office layout ideas isn't easy when you feel like you've tried just about everything.

Small office layout ideas

Having a small office can feel frustrating because working in a cramped space is never comfortable. After all, you need at least enough room to fit a desk into your small office. However, sometimes it isn’t necessarily about how much (or how little) space you have, as it is how you use it.

1. Use curtains to divide a space

Working from home often means creating a workspace in another area such as a small living room office. Curtains, like our favorite Urban Outfitters curtains, are a really easy way to solve this problem. 

“Curtains are a fantastic way to divide a space that has more than one purpose, especially since so many of us are working from home these days,” explains interior designer, Kate Dawson.

Curtains, like these blackout curtains from Amazon, can also be used to separate workspaces if two people need to be in the same room at the same time. And, having a separate, personalized 'cubicle' of your own may be the one thing that might help you to feel motivated in a small office space.

“These can create a visual division for multiple workstations, and then in an instant just pull it over to the side to make it all one open space again.” 

2. Paint a wall

Paint not only looks nice, but it also helps your brain know you are in a space where you work. One way to do this, according to Kate, is by painting an accent or feature wall. 

“I also recommend painting the area... even if it's a wall that is long and the area doesn't really have its own walls,” she says. 

Kate is also a proponent of the color-blocking method. “Pick one color and paint a segment of the walls, and I'd include the ceiling too, but just for your workspace. You can keep the space open, but it's also very clear how the different areas function.”

Not sure what hue to go for? Here are the best colors to paint a small office, plus the worst colors to paint a small office. Alternatively, if you're looking for apartment decorating ideas that are a little more renter-friendly option to emulsion, consider the best peel-and-stick wallpapers, which can be easily removed instead.

3. Put down a rug

Even a simple rug, like our favorite Target rugs, can make a major design impact. “Rugs can also be a great way to differentiate one area from another. Mostly you just need to have clear lines around the ‘area’ you're using for the office,” says Kate.  

Go with a plush rug, if you like to work barefoot. On the other hand, if you have pets at home, a washable rug with a busy pattern (hint, hint: Ruggable) may be a smarter choice. There are so many different options out there (even the best Amazon rugs do well in small spaces). The possibilities are seemingly endless but do peruse our best rug guide, which includes four things to consider when buying floor covering. For example, a pack of these Home Techpro Rug Pad Grippers from Amazon is a must if you're buying an area mat.

4. Save space with a floating desk and chair on wheels

One of the biggest challenges with a small office is trying to find a way to fit your desk chair into a small space. Solve this issue by using a floating desk. This type of desk is affixed to the wall and doesn't have legs to take up valuable space. Just be sure it is properly mounted because you don’t want the desk to fall off the wall. 

Then add a wheeled desk chair, like this faux-leather desk chair from Amazon, so you can move around without feeling cramped. If you are working from your living room, you can also use it to seat guests when you have people over.

Don't like the chair option we've highlighted? Taste is so subjective, so why not have a look at these Amazon office chairs instead? There is a section dedicated to small spaces.

5. Keep everything within reach

One of the biggest small office layout challenges is when you convert a small space into a home office. Interior designer Caitlin Scanlon recommends creating a space where everything is within reach and decluttering your small space.

“The trick is to make sure you have space within reach for the items you use daily and storage that can be further away for the things you use on a weekly, monthly, and yearly basis,” she explains.

Then Caitlun says to add a small table lamp, like our favorite Target lamps, with a shade to warm things up, along with a compact office chair. 

When it comes to chairs, she suggests forgoing aesthetics for the sake of comfort. “The quality ones are pretty unattractive but necessary — your back, neck, and hips will thank you when you are over 40! I throw a small lambskin hide [like this one from Etsy] over the back to camouflage.”

Small office layout buys

While you can make over an office on a small budget, there are a few buys that may help improve the layout of your room.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

FAQs

Now that you've set your office, it's crucial to keep it decluttered. Follow these simple tips for what to do when you feel overwhelmed by small office clutter. Go around the room and toss out anything you don't need or anything that doesn't work. Then ask yourself if there's anything you haven't used in over six months like old papers, dried-out pens, or old equipment. In the wise words of Marie Kondo, pick up an item, and ask yourself: “Does this spark joy?” If not — in the trash, it goes!

We recently updated this article in January 2024. In this update, we added a trio of product blocks to each section, to provide you with tangible suggestions, be it paint, peel-and-stick wallpaper, or sample pots of emulsion. Though we won't necessarily test these shades in our own homes, we have included highly-rated brands that we know and trust to provide a variety of finishes and perform well in your small office. Many of the brands we have selected work sustainably to create water-based formulas with minimal VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and package these up in vessels that can be recycled or upcycled.

When choosing the best colors to paint a small office, there’s a lot to consider. The type of color schemes you like, the best shade for a space you’ll spend hours in, and even if it’ll put you in the right mood for work. 

Combined with the challenges of limited square footage, that’s where our colour theory and design experts are best placed to lend a paint-covered hand — and their immense color knowledge — to help you nail this decision.

The even better news is when picking the best colors to paint a small office, the sky really is the limit. We spoke to our design experts for their best small office ideas, and superb color tricks to maximize your small office decor.

Best colors to paint a small office  — hues for every mood

First, familiarize yourself with the worst paint colors for small spaces, then get to choosing the right color. 

Nicole Gibbons, founder and CEO of Clare, suggests evaluating your lighting (you may have to learn how to properly light a small apartment) and then choosing the color. “Ensure your office has ample natural light, or use warm, ambient lighting to enhance the true beauty of these colors,” she explains. 

“The right lighting can dramatically affect how these colors are perceived and can contribute to the overall mood and productivity of your office space.”

1. Warm up with beige

If you are looking for an easy color that works with just about any aesthetic, you can’t go wrong with a warm beige in a neutral small office. 

“Neutrals like warm beige are a fantastic choice for small office spaces. They have a calming effect — perfect for a workspace,” says Nicole.

This versatile color is a great alternative to plain white. It also feels like a more intentional neutral, adding a chic design element.

To prevent the space from feeling flat, Nicole explains that adding texture is key, even if you have a minimalist small office idea in mind. “Textures bring depth and dimension to a room, making it feel more inviting," she says.  

"Consider incorporating textured fabrics in your window treatments or office chair, woven baskets for storage, or even a subtle printed wallpaper to create a visual interest that's both understated and sophisticated. These elements can make your office feel more personal and thoughtfully designed.”

Carefully-considered textures is also one of the quickest ways to make a small office feel luxurious. Think leather chairs and faux sheepskin rugs (like this sub-$80 pick from West Elm).

Alternatively, to modernize a small office, why not create a wall mural using paint, or paint a wall arch where your desk is? It's unlikely that you'll use a full pot of paint, so it's a great way to makeover a small office on a budget. If you don't have any leftover emulsion from a rental project, see if a friend or family member has some.

2. Go green

Green is a fantastic color for a colorful small office. It’s stylish and creates a feeling of bringing the outside, according to Nicole. 

Creative Director of Little Greene, Ruth Mottershead says bringing nature into your office can have a grounding effect, and Olive Colour is just the shade to do that. This mossy, olive green not only brings balance and tranquility but also connects you to the natural world, which can be incredibly soothing in a work environment, and create calm in a small office setting. 

”The sense of wellbeing we gain from time outside in the natural world has resulted in a desire to recreate this sense of connection and positivity in our homes, driving a renewed love for greens of all hues,” says Ruth.

3. Delve into dark gray

Ruth explains how dark grays have replaced dark blues as the most-loved colors. “Darker hues are perfect for a study space, where they create a sense of focus. Color blocking (pairing colors opposite each other on the color wheel) with gray is a clever technique if you want to add an accent color.” If you'd like a brighter shade, light gray may even make a small space look bigger.

Color blocking is ideal for small office layouts with wainscoting (wall paneling) or chair rails. Painting these embellishments one color, and the wall a complementary shade will add depth to a small space, leveling up the design exponentially. 

4.Try icy blue

For those who prefer bright, refreshing hues, a crisp shade of blue such as Frozen by Clare can be a smart choice. “This icy, cool blue is reminiscent of a crisp winter morning, fresh and invigorating. In a small office, using a bright color can open up the space, making it feel more expansive and lively. It's perfect for stimulating mental energy and boosting creativity,” says Nicole. 

Using a soft but bright color may even help you feel more motivated in a small office.

To complement this color, she suggests incorporating art and colorful accents. Nicole adds, "These pops of color can be in the form of artwork (we love Desenio), decorative pillows, or even colorful stationery. They add a playful and inspiring touch to your workspace, turning it into a place that fuels your creativity and confidence.”

5. Pick pink

While pink might not be the first color you think of for an office, it’s a unique choice that’s particularly good for those in creative fields. Pink home decor also makes for a great Zoom background. 

Castell Pink by Little Greene is one example of this. “This shade is very versatile, allowing you to incorporate deeper accents, zone areas, and add interest,” says Ruth.

If you’re looking for a way to compliment this hue, she suggests a deep red on your doors or woodwork. “Using colors with related undertones together creates an inviting contemporary scheme,” Ruth adds. 

Whatever you do, don't be tempted to slather your space in a bright pillar box-style red. Bright reds can cause stress and are one of the worst colors to paint a small office.

FAQs

Just because your office is small doesn’t mean it can't be beautifully designed. If you don't have much cash to splash, consider little changes like swapping out an area rug, or adding a cozy throw blanket on your office chair. A sheer curtain or divider screen might be all it takes to create a hidden small office idea, especially if you have an open-plan apartment, or share your home with a roomie and need some privacy. when working remotely. 

Make a calming small office space to boost your productivity and prevent distractions keeping you from achieving your goals while working from home.

Whether you're trying to make a calming small office space in a designated room, or you're repurposing a decent-sized closet — you can employ these clever designer-approved tips and tricks to pull together a serene work space.

We asked design experts for their best small office ideas on how to make a calming small space at home and they've delighted us with brilliant lighting, furniture and decor ideas.

How to make a calming small office space at home

Your office aesthetic is about more than creating an Instagram-worthy space. It's about curating a room that promotes inspiration and productivity — and one of the best ways to do so is through calming decor choices. 

Whether you have a room you're using as a satellite office, or you're switching up a small living room office, we have you covered with these tips for how to make a calming workspace at home. 

1. Add a chic desk lamp

When decorating your office space for calming vibes, Alex Bass, an interior designer and founder of Salon 21, advises adding a chic desk lamp. One of our favorite Target lamps could be the perfect addition to your space, helping set the mood and make you feel a little more grounded. 

“You can also get a speaker bulb to put in it and play some relaxing tunes while you work,” she notes. 

In addition to adding a decorative touch, lighting can impact our overall mood — especially in the winter when we don’t get as much natural sunlight — so being intentional about office lighting can make a major difference. 

If you have the extra desk space, consider also including a HappyLight, which is designed to help enhance focus, improve mood, and give you a dose of sunshine, even if you’re in a dark office space. 

2. Get a comfy yet practical chair

Knowing where to buy office chairs can be a make or break factor when designing a relaxing small office. 

“While the ergonomic desk chairs are not super stylish, there are many in-between options where you can find both form, function, comfort, and style,” says Alex. 

A comfy yet practical desk chair, like this leather office chair from Amazon, can not only improve your working environment, but also help create a designated area for work. If you have an uncomfortable desk chair, Alex says you’ll most likely end up working from the couch. 

3. Declutter your desk

After fitting a desk into a small office, you need to keep it tidy. Desks are prone to clutter and in many instances, keeping a desk clutter-free can get tricky. 

However, it’s worth the extra effort as a clean and organized workspace can boost the calming vibes and make you more productive, too. 

“Get a desk with enough hidden storage or add shelving above to make sure that the actual surface area of your desk only has the necessities on it,” Bass notes. 

This five-drawer desk available on Amazon has tons of storage so you can keep your odds and ends out of sight.

4. Incorporate an essential oil diffuser

To make your office space feel luxurious and calming, Bass recommends incorporating an essential oil diffuser into your decor. 

You can find more sculptural and design-forward diffusers — such as the Vitruvi stone diffuser or the gorgeous Saje aroma wave diffuser — or go for something that can cover your entire space with soothing aromas, like the GuruNanda humidifier & diffuser.

More decorative options, including the Seasons praline diffuser, also look nice on a floating shelf or bookcase. 

5. Add a small rug under your desk

Bass also recommends anchoring your desk with a small rug, like one of our favorite Target rugs, to up the comfort and calming vibes. 

“I like a plush rug under my feet in my home office, which also makes the space feel more relaxing,” she notes. 

If you don’t have space for an entire rug, you can incorporate rug textures in other ways, including placing a small throw, like this IKEA sheepskin rug, over the back of your office chair. 

Relaxing small office buys

While you may think you have to replace your major furniture, you can actually makeover your small office on a budget with some thrifty buys. Something as simple as a new light bulb can make a big difference.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

FAQs

Calming office environments are ideal for making you feel motivated and creating a stress-free workspace. 

To transform your small office space at home into a calming sanctuary, consider adding a few key elements, including a plush rug for cozy vibes, an essential oil diffuser for invigorating aromas, and a desktop lamp to boost your mood. 

It’s also worth keeping to minimalist small office decor and utilizing desk and shelving storage to keep things clutter-free.  

Avoiding the worst colors to paint a small office is essential to your productivity at home. You don’t need a large space to WFH, you just need to learn how to work with what you have. One factor is choosing the right color scheme for the room.

Whether you're painting the entire room or just an accent wall, paint can make a major design impact. It's crucial to choose a color that’s not only aesthetically pleasing, but also makes you feel motivated.  

The step in making the right choice is understanding what color not to paint the room. Once you’ve eliminated the worst colors, you can get hunting for the right one. These are the worst paint colors for a small home office according to experts.

The worst colors to paint a small office

But before you get to painting, it’s important to choose furniture and style your office. Check out these tips so you can feel motivated in a small office. You'll be a WFH pro in no time.

1. Bright red

Bright red is one of the boldest colors you can paint any room. If you’ve always wanted to paint a wall bright red — do it, just not in your home office. The colour can increase stress levels, especially if you have deadlines or tend to feel anxious about work in general. 

Plus, you can start to feel overwhelmed by small office clutter if you're already stressed out. However, that doesn't mean you should eliminate this color entirely. Instead, go with a more refined hue. 

Interior designer, Audrey Scheck suggests something darker like burgundy or maroon, like this maroon paint color from Lick. “Rich tones like this provide a warm vibe without being too expected,” says Scheck.

2. Bold blue

While bright blue might feel like an ideal color for home offices — after all, it’s the color of water and scientifically proven to be soothing — an office space isn’t the right spot for it.

Skip any blues that look like they came from a pack of crayons. Instead, Audrey suggests going subtle with your office space and opting for royal, dusty, or denim blue (such as this slate blue paint color from Lick).

Express your love for blue in a budget-friendly way with cheap wall art in a variety of designs. Alternatively, a blue desk chair, like this velvet office chair from Amazon, is an excellent way to add a pop of color to a more muted space.

3. Yellow

Bright yellow is an obvious choice to skip as it's one of the worst paint colors for small spaces in general. Unless you want to lean into maximalism, yellow can be too bright and distracting while you're working or stuck in a big meeting.

Instead, try a softer hue of yellow or a rich, deeper shade like this warm yellow paint color from Lick.

4. Gray

Grey has been an incredibly popular paint color in recent years for a neutral small office.

While it’s a fantastic choice for many spaces, it’s best to go with something different for your home office. “While grey might feel like a safe choice, some people say that being surrounded by it all day makes them feel depressed,” says Audrey. 

The designer recommends using green instead, like this sage green with grey undertones from Lick. “Research shows that most people feel more productive and confident when they are surrounded by green. It’s easy on the eyes, and it’s reminiscent of the outdoors which is instantly calming," she adds.

If you love gray, perhaps consider buying an upholstered desk chair in that hue instead, like this velvet desk chair from Amazon. This will also complement the green paint.

5. White

While white feels like an obvious choice to paint any small room, it’s actually one of the worst colors for a small office, according to the creative director of Little Greene, Ruth Mottershead. 

“Many use white in small rooms with the aim of making the room appear larger," Ruth explains. "However, light neutrals used in a tonal scheme will have the same effect whilst not appearing too stark.” 

If there is a lot of natural light in a small room then using warm, light, tones will make the room feel more spacious. Ruth tells Real Homes it's best to use shades from the same color family for a coordinated, cohesive scheme.

FAQs

If you like a bright, whimsical look in the rest of your home, it’s probably better to choose a different color scheme for your home office. “The colors you surround yourself with can impact your mood and productivity, particularly in a home office,” explains Audrey. 

Bold color palettes can be overstimulating, especially if you already feel stressed out about work. Audrey recommends choosing a more muted shade instead. “This can help create a more calming, productive environment.”

So, go with a muted color for your walls and perhaps paint your desk a bright color instead to incorporate your personality or small space color trends into the space. 

It may be easier than you think to make a small office look luxurious. This not only adds a level of sophistication to your work space, but also creating a clean, clutter-free environment for improved productivity. 

Despite the luxe-looking decor, you actually don’t have to spend a lot of money on this transformation. With a few furniture changes, some accent items, and a little expert advice, it’s entirely possible to curate an elevated office space. 

If you’re working in tight quarters, our interior design expert is brimming with small office ideas to make your work space look luxurious using (mostly) what you already have. 

How to make a small office look luxurious 

You don't need a lot of space to enjoy a chic office space. Instead, being intentional about your decorating choices can help you achieve that lush luxe look, even in a modern small office. Whether you work from home or out of an office, our experts share how to make your small work space look luxe. 

1. Incorporate a sleek desk

When decorating a small office with the goal of luxe design, Alex Bass, an interior designer, art curator, and founder of Salon 21, says to consider a sleek desk style to boost your space and enjoy a minimalist small office look.

Luxe-looking desks typically feature clean lines and a more minimalistic style. You can’t go wrong with a piece of furniture in a waterfall style, such as this glass AllModern desk from Wayfair, but a more traditional look with plenty of hidden storage to keep clutter at bay can do the trick nicely.  

2. Declutter your office

The easiest way to get started is to declutter your small space. “Decluttering your space makes it look clean and organized,” Alex notes. 

Consider your storage situation and whether or not your essentials have a home. If you need additional storage, consider cabinets with clean lines and closed doors, like this sleek storage cabinet from Wayfair. 

You can also up the ante on your storage situation by incorporating a luxe velvet storage ottoman, like this round storage ottoman from Wayfair, which can serve as additional seating while also hiding some of your office items. 

3. Add an essential oil diffuser

When it comes to decorating your office, it’s not just about looks but also about feel. To refine your space, Bass recommends incorporating an essential oil diffuser to invite invigorating aromas into your space and create an overall more luxurious environment. 

These diffusers can often double as sculptural decor, too, making them both functional and decorative for your workspace. Up the ante by diffusing a luxe essential oil blend, such as the Le Labo SANTAL 26 home diffuser oil.  

4. Incorporate marble into your decor

Certain materials, such as heavy marble, can also add some glamor to your space and create a more luxurious-looking decor moment. If you have the space, a marble coffee table, like this round coffee table from Wayfair, can transform your room and make it feel more expensive. 

For smaller offices, you can still achieve this look by adding marble accents, such as bowls, vases, and even marble games (like this chic marble tic-tac-toe game from CB2) to your bookshelf or desk space.

5. Elevate with a leather office chair

Dress up your office space with a chic leather office chair. But, instead of traditional black leather, opt for something a little more chic, such as cream or camel brown, like this brown task chair from Wayfair.

Adding a sophisticated office chair to your small space can help you curate a more luxe-looking design without sacrificing comfort and functionality. After snagging yours, you'll just have to make sure you can fit a desk chair into a small office. We suggest measuring the space first so you know you have room for it.

Luxe small office buys

We found plenty of modern home decor buys that can make a big impact in a small space. To keep things luxurious looking, try sticking to a neutral small office color palette. 

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

FAQs

Creating a luxurious and expensive-looking office space is all about incorporating different high-quality materials — such as leather, marble, and fur — into the decor while keeping things sleek, minimal, and clutter-free. 

To achieve this design aesthetic, consider switching out your traditional black office chair for a brown or cream leather desk chair and opt for a sleeker-looking desk. There are plenty of inexpensive options online, like this neutral office chair from Amazon, so you can still make over a small office on a budget.

If you have the space, a marble (or marble-look) coffee table can help anchor the room and create a nice focal point, or you can also incorporate small marble accents to your bookshelf decor, too. 

Ashley Tisdale's office chair looks like the perfect place to get work done while staying warm. In colder months sitting at a boring desk in a hard chair just isn't appealing, which is why we're loving this alternative. 

Ashley Tisdale is an actor known for appearing in the High School Musical franchise as Sharpay Evans. Nowadays she's a lifestyle influencer with over 16m followers. She's always posting pictures of her gorgeous home, but this time it's a picture of her chilling in her Frenshe office that has wowed us here at Real Homes.

Looking for small office ideas that are chic and comfy? We've talked through why we love the idea and how you can incorporate it into your small home. It's cozy, relaxed, and is super easy to copy no matter what sized room you're working with.

Ashley Tisdale's office chair

If you want an office chair that sits outside of the norm, Ashley Tisdale's relaxing alternative is a beautiful choice. We also have put together a round-up of seating that matches hers.

Why we love Ashley Tisdale's office chair

When you first think of seating in an office, your mind might first go to standard chairs with wheels. That doesn’t always have to be the case, though. “I think Ashley’s office seating is a clever alternative, as it gives her enough space to stretch out and relax in a way that still complements the room’s decor,” says Emily Lambe, deputy editor of Real Homes. 

The minimalist small office design makes her room look luxe, but it still has practical benefits “The lower backs on the seats and the soft woven material look cozy, while still providing enough support that you don’t feel completely asleep while you’re working,” Emily adds. “Ashley has three seats in her office, but you could just have one if you have a smaller space, which would still have the same effect.”

Emily also loves how Ashley has complemented the seating with Scandi-style decor. “The millennial pink area rug and washed wall artwork in the background add to the zen vibe she has going on,” Lambe adds. “I also spy the indoor plant in the back — Ashley has just gone for one, but you could always opt for a few to add even more vibrancy to your office.” 

Whether you want to add extra seating as a ‘breakout zone’ for your office or replace your whole desk set-up with a plush seat, Ashley Tisdale’s seating is a great example of thinking outside the box when decorating this room.

3 buys to help you get the look

If you want to bring Ashley's office chair look into your place, here are three cute buys that will help you do just that.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Bringing a touch of coziness to your office space will add warmth to it, which will can certainly make it a more productive place to work in if you thrive in that sort of environment. Want even more home inspo from Sharpay herself? Ashley Tisdale's shoe wall is a game changer for small spaces.

Refresh a small office without spending money with some expert-approved ideas. Just because your small home office is in dire need of a makeover doesn’t mean your wallet needs to take a hit. 

A wallet-friendly makeover is as easy as understanding how you want your space to flow. Comfort and personalization of your space are the two most important factors in creating the ideal workspace. 

Although it may be tempting to throw money at the problem, there are plenty of cost-free small office ideas that don’t require a trip to your favorite stores. Consider these free and easy ways to set yourself up for success in your ideal home office. No wallet required.

6 ideas to refresh a small office without spending money

Does your small bedroom home office need a revamp yet you can’t spend a dime? Don’t fret. From rearranging your furniture to opening a window, your revamped home office is just a few (free) steps away.

1. Rearrange your furniture

Trying to find an inexpensive and sustainable way to refresh your small office? Grab a Feng Shui book from the library and try rearranging your furniture. 

Although understanding Feng Shui apartment ideas can be complex, a beginner’s guide can help you determine the best layout for your office. By rearranging the furniture you already own, you’re able to see your workspace in a whole new light.

2. Organize your desk

For small spaces, your desk is often the centerpiece of your workspace. This means it can get messy and the small office clutter can feel overwhelming. Instead of stuffing your office supplies and old mail away in corners and drawers, consider a total overhaul by organizing your desk. Group together messy cords using rubber bands and color-coordinate your pen collection. Keep your desk’s surface as free from clutter as possible. 

Organizing expert and Brand Ambassador for Modular Closets Christina Giaquinto makes one thing clear. “Create an effective and organized system,” she says. But her other piece of advice means reaching a bit deeper. 

“Simplify your office so you can focus on things that inspire you,” she advises. “That is one of the most, if not the most, important parts of the home office. What inspires you toward your goals? What motivates you? Add these elements to your office. Family photos, vision board pictures, calming art, or work keepsakes are what you want to see every single day.” 

If your efforts aren't cutting it and you're still in need of an organizer, you can pick up this budget-friendly cable manager from Amazon for just $6.55. 

3. Declutter anything not useful

First things first, declutter your small space ASAP. Get rid of anything not useful to you by tossing it, donating it, or recycling it. Take a look around your office and have an honest conversation with yourself about whether you actually need the items you’ve stored in there. 

Maybe there are holiday decorations that might be better off in the garage, or an extra chair taking up too much space. Whatever it is, freeing your small space will open your space up to new opportunities.

4. Improve the natural light

Changing out your lighting can be helpful but if that’s not an option, consider opening a curtain or window to let in some fresh air and natural light. Especially great if you can see trees from your window, letting in a bit of nature will help you feel calmer and more collected in between back-to-back meetings. 

Changing the amount of natural light that flows to your home office might also change the way you see the colors and textures already in your space. For those with no windows in their home office, consider leaving the door open between meetings for better flow. 

Some sheer curtains are also great if you want to let in light but desire some privacy. If you have to break and pick up some new ones, these well-rated sheer curtains available from Amazon come in at less than $10. 

5. Use items from elsewhere in your house

Do you have a bedroom lamp you’ve never switched on? Or a chair in your dining room that no one ever sits in? Searching around your house is one great way to find new items for your workspace without even having to walk out your front door. From decorations to bookshelves, finding items from your home that function better in your workspace can completely change the look of your small home office. 

When searching for items, go further than finding pieces of small space furniture you can use. Adding personal items you find in your bedroom and living room can also serve to create your ideal office. 

“What's often not spotted are personal touches,” Artem Kropovinsky, an interior design expert and founder of Arsight, a New York-based interior design studio, says. “Think inspiring artwork or a fresh plant, These aren't just for show. They spark creativity and offer an escape from screen time.” 

6. Join your local free groups

In the past few years, local Buy Nothing groups have sprung about on various platforms (most often on Facebook). Although these groups aren’t a foolproof way to find the furniture you’re looking for, they are a great resource on the off chance your neighbor needs to get rid of something you can use. 

As always when meeting with anyone you meet online, be wary of scammers or anyone untrustworthy. Always take the proper safety precautions. 

FAQs

Although it could be tempting to run out and purchase a lot of items to redo your space, the first step you should take is determining what you can change about your space for free. 

Start by decluttering, reorganizing, rearranging, and understanding your space. From rearranging your furniture to changing your lighting and decluttering without throwing anything away, you deserve to have a workspace that works for you. 

Implementing some modern small office ideas will help create a professional and sleek WFH space. When curating an office space, some design aesthetics lend themselves to small spaces over others. This includes modern design and decor, which has a minimalist look and works really well in compact areas as a result. 

If you prefer the modern decor look, consider ways you can make the most out of your room through the types of furniture you use, how you choose to organize (and, essentially, hide) your office supplies, and what your lighting situation looks like as all of these are essential to achieving a more minimalist and modern small office look. 

Up ahead, we share our favorite small home office ideas, plus expert advice on how to make an office more modern-looking. 

Modern small office ideas to try at home

Invest in some slick modern home decor to add to your small home office space. We spoke to experts and found plenty of ways to update your office so it's fresh and on-trend. But don't stress about the cost of an upgrade — there are plenty of ways to makeover a small office on a budget.

1. Keep wall art minimal

For a sleek, modern look in a small office, keep wall decor to a minimum. Instead of curating a gallery wall or adding a mix of wall art styles to your space, stick with one large framed print or canvas to give the space a touch of modern decor without feeling cluttered and crossing over into other style territories such as eclectic and bohemian. 

You can find plenty of modern wall art online, like this framed abstract art print from Society6.

"If your walls become overrun with art and other pictures, it can start to look cluttered pretty fast," says Emily Lambe, deputy editor of Real Homes. "Keep it simple with one stand-out piece of art or decor."

If you're in an apartment — not to fear. There are plenty of renter-friendly wall decor ideas like simple tapestries that won't cause any damage.

2. Opt for an extendable desk

When working with a small amount of space, convertible pieces such as an extendable desk can really transform an office. For a modern style, you'll want to look for clean lines and a minimal design. There are plenty of modern desks available online, like our favorite Urban Outfitters desks that feature chic and on-trend options. 

"Picking the right desk if probably the most important factor in creating a small home office," says Lambe. "If you're in a really tiny space or you might be moving your desk around, an extendable option means you can customize it to whatever space you're working with."

3. Utilize a wall desk

Minimal small offices look really modern so incorporating furniture that fits the vibe is a must. A wall desk — which is essentially a desk built into a wall-mounted shelving system — can serve as a functional tabletop while helping to achieve a modern look in a small space. 

To up the ante, consider a white desk mounted onto a white wall to open up the room and create a monochrome look. 

This highly-rated Mercury Row wall desk available on Wayfair is super sleek but still contains a couple of drawers for storing all your essentials.

4. Create a built-in system

If you don’t have a lot of space to work with and you want to create an office that feels modern, sophisticated, and functional, transform cabinets and shelves into a workspace. 

This helps keep clutter out of sight for a sleeker-looking design and gives you a designated space to get your work done without the need for a full-sized desk.  Plus, building a workspace out of your existing furniture is a great way to fit a desk into a small space.

You can simply add a wall-mounted desk like this floating desk available on Wayfair to any nook or cranny to recreate the look.

5. Consider your office chair

Your office chair can totally make or break a design moment. If you’re working with a small space and want it to have a more modern feel, it’s worth going for a desk chair that doesn’t feel bulky or take up too much space. 

Office chairs with open backs and even some mid-century modern accent chairs can work well in a modern small office while still providing ample comfort and support. We found plenty of great options in our best office chair round-up, including this cream and gold office chair from Staples. 

6. Designate your workspace with paint

Whether you have your own small office room or are transforming a corner of your living room into an office, creating a mural for your desk area can make a difference. 

This not only adds minimalist wall art details but also anchors your workspace and helps make the area feel a little more intentional and separate from other parts of the home. 

For a modern feel, stick to neutral colors like this warm beige color from Lick or this cool taupe color from Lick. 

7. Keep the clutter at bay

Achieve a more modern feel with minimal decor. Offices are more susceptible to clutter, but it’s possible to keep it to a minimum if you’re intentional about storage and decor. Instead of displaying all of your supplies on your desk, keep items in a sleek cabinet, like this storage cabinet available at Wayfair, or a desk drawer. 

Then, add floating wall shelves above your desk and add a few home decor pieces, including figurines, a plant, and a small basket for easy access to supplies. 

"Floating shelves above a desk is a great solution because you can store all your office essentials while still creating a place for displaying decor items you may already have in your room," says Lucy Searle, Content Director, Real Homes. 

8. Don’t forget the lighting

Lighting can transform any space, including an office. Instead of opting for a more industrial-style lamp, choose a mid-century modern-style pendant light (or several) to hang over your desk. 

Round globe lights tucked away in a corner or on top of a storage cabinet can also help elevate the design and add to the modern feel. 

We found plenty of modern designs in our best Target lamps round-up, including this modern iron desk lamp by Lalia Home.

FAQs

When decorating your small office with a modern design focus, the key is to keep things sleek, clean, and minimal. Instead of a gallery wall or cluster of wall art — which can look a bit cluttered — go for one large framed print or canvas painting. It also helps to choose small space furniture with sleek lines and mid-century modern-inspired designs, as this can help create a more timeless look. 

When in doubt, assess your lighting situation and look for ways you can bring in more modern decor through accent lamps, pendant lights, and other lighting moments in your modern small office. 

Embracing some creative minimalist small office ideas is the key is to transforming your workspace. This not only looks modern and stylish, it helps create a functional and productive work-from-home set-up that is clutter-free and professional. 

From neutral colors to sleek office furniture, there are so many ways to create a minimalist aesthetic for your workspace, whether you have a dedicated home office or a desk in your bedroom or living room.  

We asked design experts for the best small office ideas to makeover a drab room. Up ahead, we share their ideas to help spark some inspiration, plus our favorite minimalist buys for your small office.

7 minimalist small office ideas

Minimalism is a great style to embrace in a small office as it helps keep clutter to a minimum. You won't have to buy many items, so it's a handy way to makeover a small office on a budget. See our suggestions for implementing this modern style in your home.

1. Go for neutral colors

One of the best ways to establish a minimalist small office is to choose neutral colors for your space. White, cream, beige, tan, light gray, and natural wood are all excellent starting points and can help you curate a room that feels coordinated and stylish while remaining functional. This light Threshold wooden desk from Target is a great place to start.

To elevate this color palette, consider adding an accent color for decorative pieces — whether it be a desk lamp, vase, or bookends — such as black, sage green, or soft pink. These agate stone bookends from West Elm make a real statement on a desk or bookshelf.

"A light color palette is the first step towards a minimalist home office as the room will look cohesive and relaxing," says Lucy Searle, Content Director, Real Homes. 

2. Maximize storage for a clean look

It’s no secret that small office clutter can feel overwhelming. Instead of displaying supplies like tape staplers, paperclips, notepads, and pens, opt for a desk with plenty of storage space that allows you to keep your necessities organized while also keeping them out of sight. 

When choosing a desk, go for options with cabinets and drawers to keep a sleek look, but try to avoid excessive hardware. This wooden writing desk from Target comes with two drawers and no outer hardware for a clean look.

“Closed storage solutions will allow you to conceal office materials that you don’t want on display,” says Hannah Kirk, an interior designer and owner of Kirk's.

3. Consider a standing desk

If your office is on the small side and you want to keep things minimal and functional, a versatile standing desk can do the trick. These don’t usually have storage and, therefore, don’t appear as bulky as other small space furniture. 

Plus, having a standing desk means you can keep your seating situation minimal and opt for a stool instead of a bulky office chair. Plus, you can use your standing desk for other activities. If you store it in the bedroom, you can use it as a place to get ready in the morning. And if you store it in the living room, it can act as a great small space dining table.

This adjustable standing desk available on Amazon is well-loved by customers with over 11k reviews. 

4. Try a monochromatic look

Painting your walls, desk, and shelving the same color can also create a monochrome look that feels minimal without looking too bare. 

The color you choose can also help determine your overall aesthetic so, if you are going for a more traditional minimalist look, you might opt for white or cream but if you want something that feels a little more eclectic or bohemian, a soft pop of color can help you achieve the look. 

5. Invest in a coffee table with laptop stand

if you're stuck in a small one-bedroom or studio apartment, you may not have the luxury of a devoted home office. That means you're going to make to make the most of your living area with furniture that doubles as a work station and relaxation space.

To achieve this, consider investing in a coffee table with a laptop stand and storage, like this clever wooden coffee table from Wayfair. During the day, it functions as a work desk and in the evenings it folds down to a normal coffee table to eat dinner off of or prop your feet on. 

"I work at home from my living room and I've really been eyeing up a laptop-stand coffee table to make things easier," says Emily Lambe, Deputy Editor, Real Homes. "It's just the perfect solution I've been looking for so I can have a desk without storing an additional piece of living room furniture."

6. Opt for a long entry table

If you need a lot of room to spread out, a traditional desk might not cut it — plus, larger desks are one of the things you should never have in a small office space.

 Instead, opt for a long entry table with waterfall legs for a sleek and seamless look, like this wooden Threshold console table form Target. These tables don’t take up as much space width-wise but are large enough to fit your necessities while allowing you a little more room in the length to work. 

All you'll need is a small storage chest to tuck underneath to keep all your office essentials out of the way.

7. Create a built-In look

No matter what your design aesthetic is, when working with a small office space, the key is to make it feel intentional. Creating a built-in look can help you achieve this. 

If your office has a small nook, consider adding a floating tabletop and installing floating shelves, like these acrylic ones available on Amazon, that extend to the length of the nook and make it look as if it’s built-in.

"Floating shelves above a desk in a living room is a great solution because you can store all your office essentials while still creating a place for displaying decor items you may already have in your room," says Lucy Searle, Content Director, Real Homes. 

Best minimalist small office buys

FAQs

Creating a minimalist small office is all about the right colors, textures, and, of course, keeping things minimal. Since offices tend to require a lot of stuff, choosing office furniture — such as small bedroom desks, cabinets, and coffee tables — with hidden storage can help ensure everything has a place and nothing is out in plain sight, creating clutter. 

For an easy minimalist aesthetic, consider going for a more monochromatic look with your paint and desk colors, or choose light, natural wood pieces to accent a white and cream look. 

Embrace some neutral small office ideas to make your workspace more calm and serene. Sticking with neutral colors and design choices is especially great for smaller spaces because it opens up the room and takes advantage of the space without over-cluttering. 

Keeping a light and bright neutral workspace can help with motivation and productivity as well as look good. Plus, if you're in a rental and stuck with neutral features, this decor will complement the environment perfectly. 

We spoke to design experts to get all the best small office ideas to give your workspace a makeover. These neutral decor additions will match just about any design style or preference.

8 neutral small office ideas

When creating your workspace, keeping things neutral can create a lighter and calmer environment. Whether you’re working with a small bedroom office or looking for ways to transform a section of your living room into a workspace, we share the best neutral small office ideas. Plus, expert insight on how to design your space to make it functional and stylish.

1. Mix natural wood and white

Instead of going with an all-white look, combine natural wood finishes with white furniture and accents for an elevated neutral small office. This adds more dimension and warmth to your space. If you're using a real wooden desk, like this writing desk from Target, just remember to keep your wood clean and polished for the best result.

Plus, you can draw inspiration from the wood color when choosing accents and storage items like woven baskets, vases, and even rugs. This gorgeous Threshold decorative cane basket from Target would look gorgeous with any neutral desk.

"Natural materials like wood and rattan really compliment neutral colors like cream and beige, no matter what room they are in," says Lucy Searle, Content Director, Real Homes. 

2. Add wainscoting to the walls

When working with a neutral color palette, you can keep things minimalistic by adding texture to your wall instead of wall art or decor vignettes. 

Wainscoting is an excellent option because it is sleek and neutral but still adds a little depth to your space. Plus, you can easily DIY wainscoting at home without too much effort. 

Wainscot applications can range from simple in design to intricate installations and range from 34” to 54” in height based on the style of architectural design. 

Regardless of design, you'll find that PVC bead boards, V-groove, and nickel gap options are easy to use and install. Royal PVC trim & moldings are beautiful, durable, and easy to work with.

3. Turn books around

Books are one of those things people who WFH always have in their office but they can also add color and clutter to your space. When working with a neutral small office, it helps to display the books on a shelf with the pages facing out to minimize the colors and create a more neutral palette. 

This bookshelf idea also works with stacked books on a desktop surface and coffee table, too. Just make sure you're investing in the right bookshelf before getting started. This neutral white bookshelf available on Amazon would look good in just about any office space.

4. Utilize rack shelving

Keep your design features simple in a neutral small office. Shelving ideas work great for office storage, but they're also a desk solution for a small space. Rack shelving allows you to customize the placement of your shelves for a functional setup that serves your office needs. 

"Rack shelving above a desk is a great solution because you can store all your office essentials while still creating a place for displaying decor items you may already have around the house," says Searle.

Use the space directly above your desk to install the shelves with brackets in a small alcove or nook, using the Boaxel shelving unit from IKEA for ample room for storage.

5. Add plants for a pop of color

When decorating a neutral small office, houseplants for small spaces are the best way to add pops of color. Greenery also invites the natural world into the office, which can help reduce stress, improve productivity, and is even linked to increased creativity. 

If you don’t have a ton of natural light in your office, you can opt for a faux houseplant or a grow light such as the Aspect™ LED Growlight from Soltech. But don't worry — we found everything you need to know to avoid killing houseplants.

"I absolutely need to have houseplants all around me in my home office," says Emily Lambe, Deputy Editor, Real Homes. "They add so much vibrancy and life to the room, plus they help break up the all-beige look going on in my rental."

6. Create a monochromatic look

If you want to add some color but still keep everything neutral, a monochromatic look is a great option.

This is a good solution for small nook offices or even offices built into a closet. You can paint the walls, shelves, and tabletop and then add accent pieces to break up the color a bit. 

Just be sure to avoid the worst paint colors for small spaces to avoid giving yourself a headache. Stay away from bright pure white, vibrant yellows or reds, and really dark tones to make a small room look bigger.

7. Add texture with a faux fur rug

Neutral small offices can really benefit from some pops of luxe decor. Fun area rugs are a great way to bring different colors and textures into a small office space. 

In a neutral small office, consider something bold without adding color, such as a faux fur sheepskin rug or shag carpet. If you don’t have the space for a full-sized rug, you can also consider adding a small sheepskin throw (such as the IKEA Ullerslev sheepskin) to the back of your desk chair or an office chair. 

Another way to elevate your space is by incorporating natural materials, as warm wood tones and greenery can “make a space feel like it has a pulse,” says Interior Designer, Hannah Kirk. 

You can also shop our favorite Amazon rugs and the best Target rugs to see the more options and the team's top picks.

8. Paint a minimalist mural

Just because you have a neutral office doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun with your design and decor. Pick up some paint in terracotta, like this warm red color from Lick, and tan, like this mid-beige color from Lick, to create a neutral, modern mural for an accent wall. 

You can create one large arch on your desk wall to anchor the tabletop or paint a few arches in alternating colors in a small nook with a potted plant for a calming vignette. 

While this might sound daunting, the good news is that it's not too difficult to design your own DIY mural at home. Just sketch everything out first then add more and more layers slowly.

Best neutral small office buys

FAQs

Creating a neutral small office space is about a lot more than just choosing neutral color schemes. In addition to focusing on color, there are several ways to makeover a small office while keeping things neutral. 

You can add texture through rugs and wainscoting, add a pop of color with houseplants, and turn your books around to keep things functional without the added color of their jackets and bindings. 

Additionally, more minimalistic approaches to storage furniture can also lighten up the space and create a more neutral vibe.  

Trying to fit a desk into a small office may seem like a challenge but it can actually be pretty easy with some helpful tips. Decorating this room requires a lot of intentional design choices, starting with your desk. 

No matter if your home office exists in your bedroom, living room, or a designated space, fitting your desk into your small office can make or break the layout. It can be tough when all you have to work with is a closet or makeshift workspace, but rest assured — it can be done. 

Below, you'll find plenty of small office ideas to try out in your home to maximize functionality and productivity. Check out our expert advice for fitting a desk into small office spaces, ahead. 

How to fit a desk into a small office

Whether you’re working with a small closet or a bedroom office, choosing the right desk for your space is ultra-important. Not only do you want to ensure that your desk is functional and serves your needs — or else you might not even use it as much as you intend — but you also want to make sure it doesn’t overpower your space and leave the area feeling overwhelmed with office clutter and full of heavy furniture. 

1. Measure your space more than once

It may seem obvious but the first thing to consider when fitting a desk into a small office is the size of the space you're working with. Make sure you use a measuring tape (you can pick up this handy measuring tape from Amazon with over 14k reviews if you don't have one) and measure the dimensions of the room more than once. Write down the exact sizes before looking at where to buy furniture online.

Writing desks come in all different sizes and widths. If you have more wiggle room in the length but not the width, it’s worth looking for desks with slimmer tabletop surfaces, like this Ameriwood desk available on Amazon, so that you maximize your space. This is also true for office spaces with not a lot of horizontal space. 

2. Avoid bulky furniture

First and foremost, avoid bulky furniture when trying to fit a desk into a small office. This includes heavy desks with thick cabinets for legs and even some styles with waterfall edges. Instead, stick to the best furniture for small spaces.

Opt for lightweight (yet durable) designs that utilize storage in a smart and functional way, like this sleek white Threshold desk from Target. If you have vertical space above your desk for shelving, it’s also worth looking at desks without drawers to create a more lightweight look while finding another solution for storage. You can install some floating shelves above your desk, like these acrylic ones available on Amazon, to create more room for books, papers, and whatever else you need.

When choosing your desk, Shivani Vyas, a residential interior designer and the owner of Studio Vyas in Macon, GA., says to look for “flexible desks that free up your horizontal real estate while maximizing function.”

3. Go for a writing desk

Writing desks, like this minimal Threshold desk from Target, are one of the best ways to fit a desk in a small space. These types of desks don’t have as much room to spread out and work particularly well for those who only use a laptop in their work setup. 

Many writing desks also feature smart and functional storage, either through a built-in cubby or a slim drawer for storing notebooks and other office supplies essentials. You'll also want to utilize a desk organizer to help maintain any clutter.

 "Writing desks are a great solution in a small office because they're minimal but still provide some storage for essentials," says Lucy Searle, Content Director, Real Homes.

4. Look for versatility

You're going to want to look for a desk that can do it all. If you're cramming a desk into a small room, it should serve more than one purpose so you can use it for things other than work. 

If you're using a small bedroom desk, you'll want to use it as a place to get ready in the morning and store makeup and skincare. If you're set up in the living room, use your desk as a reading nook and a place for a living room bookshelf.

5. Try a corner desk

Utilizing a corner desk is a great way to fill up an awkward space in a small room. It's a part of the room that wouldn't be used otherwise and it keeps your biggest furniture out of the way so there's a better flow to the room. 

The best corner desks come in all shapes and sizes so you're sure to find something that can work for your home office. This crafty corner desk available on Amazon even comes with hidden storage underneath so you'll have plenty of room for all your office essentials.

6. Ensure your desk and office chair compliment each other

When choosing your desk and office chair, ensure that both of them pair well together and create a balanced look. Pairing a bulky chair with a lightweight desk (or vice versa) can make your space feel overcrowded and throw off the overall proportions. 

Take some time to shop for just the right chair that will match your desk and won't stick out too much. If you're worried that an ergonomic won't look very attractive, we found plenty of Amazon office chairs that look just as great as they feel. Our favorite is this plush white office chair from Amazon which looks pretty sophisticated but provides plenty of support with thick padding.

Best small office desks

FAQs

When choosing a desk for a small office space, consider smaller and more lightweight options — such as a writing desk — to keep things functional without overcrowding your room. 

It’s also worth considering your storage options and whether or not vertical storage, like our favorite renter-friendly shelving, is an option for you, as this can free up a lot of horizontal space and make your desk setup look less bulky. 

No matter if you have a separate office room or are creating a desk setup in your bedroom, also look for desk chairs, like our best office chairs, that complement your furniture and help create a cohesive and proportionate office setup. 

Learning how to fit a desk in a small space is key for making sure you’re able to carry out your hobbies or even work at home. Desks are often large, so finding the right gap for them in a smaller home or apartment can be a tricky task.

Whether you’re looking for a makeshift space in your living room or want to create space out of magic in your little office, finding space for a desk is a good idea. While it can be easy to just work on the couch, some tasks are too important or just need the surface room that a desk provides.

Looking through small space decorating ideas, and think a desk is the way to go for your place? I’ve spoken to experts to find out how exactly to fit one into a small space, plus picked out desk buys in case you want to start building your little workspace ASAP.

How to fit a desk in a small space: 5 expert tips

Ready to get started? No matter if you're looking for small office ideas or just want your desk to fit in a particular space, these tips will help you fit your desk. 

1. Fit the desk against the wall

Rather than having a desk in the middle of the room, utilize as much space as possible by placing it against the wall. “Depending on the size of the desk and shape of the space, this may be the best option to leave walking space around the desk,” explains Luis Carmona, owner and lead designer at VERDE Interior Design. “Having furniture pieces placed against the wall of a room can often make a small room appear bigger because you can see more available floor space.” Now that’s definitely a win-win.

2. Go taller, not wider

When it comes to smaller spaces, going for vertical space rather than horizontal space is always the way to go. “Having a large corporate desk spanning 5' across an office is a luxury that many with small offices do not have,” explains Carmona. “Opt for a desk that is adequate but that has some height.”

3. Look for a floating desk

If you’re able to mount your desk onto a wall, this could be another option. “A wall-mount folding desk is a great way to fit a workspace into a small area,” says Samantha Polkow, founder of interior design firm Studio HB. “Just recently, we sourced a floating shelf desk that acted as a display shelf when folded for a client who needed a desk in her bedroom but didn't have the space to accommodate one.” 

Carmona also suggests using wall desks, as these work as a small space storage idea, shelving and even lighting in a vertical design allowing for maximum efficiency, while taking up minimal space. “They are great options for smaller offices or a space where one needs to fit multiple workstations.” 

4. Choose a desk with thin legs

For those who want to maximize floor space in their small room, pay attention to the measurements on the desk’s legs. “Desks with thin legs or minimalistic designs work wonders,” says Joy Aumann, interior designer and founder of LUXURYSOCALREALTY. They're also visually less intrusive and maintain an open, airy feel in the room. 

5. Opt for multifunctional furniture

If you are dedicating a lot of space to a desk, make it work as well for you as possible by utilizing the space to the max. “For instance, integrating a desk into a shelving unit not only saves space but also provides ample storage,” says Aumann. “This idea was a lifesaver in a studio apartment I worked on.” The desk-bookcase combo she installed was not just a workspace, but also a place to display personal items, candles, and books, blending seamlessly with the room's overall decor. 

Shop desks for small spaces

Want to pick a desk that will fit in your small space? These three buys are perfect for offices and other rooms in the home. 

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

FAQs

Most importantly of all when fitting a desk in a small space, be sure to measure the surroundings before you attempt to place it. This will ensure that you won't end up with a desk that you definitely can't fit in your small space. 

Still shopping for your home office? If you are still furnishing it, these highly-rated small bookshelves are stylish and practical.  

Ok I'm obsessed with all think Selena Gomez and the Rare Beauty office makeover is no exception. I've stocked up on just about every liquid blush Rare offers, so it's no wonder I need to recreate the office look at home.

The Single Soon singer took to Instagram to give her 430 million fans a sneak peek at her beauty line's new office, and it's safe to say with accommodations this chic, employees aren't going to be terribly anxious to head home — and I wouldn't blame them TBH.

The ultra-stylish space has received four million likes and counting, so naturally, everyone's curious how their small home office ideas can mimic Selena's, even if they're working in a tiny space.

Have a look at Selena Gomez's new Rare Beauty office

Velvet blush rugs. Sleek, white shelves. Playful images. Rare Beauty's new digs have me noodling about my own desk space and revamping traditional home office ideas. 

It's definitely giving us Mabel. BTW, speaking of Only Murders in the Building, we spoke to the show's production designer about recreating Mabel's Upper West Side aesthetic look in your home.

"After 3 years. We were able to make our home cozy! @rarebeauty," the star writes on Instagram. 

How to recreate the Rare Beauty office look

If this style sends your heart aflutter, it's time to give your makeshift office a feminine makeover. We have a feeling your productivity will benefit from such lush surroundings. 

1. Use sleek storage options

With all of the work — and samples! — Selena has at her disposal, the only way for her envy-worthy office to stay that way is by keeping it tidy. From the looks of it, her gorgeous white shelves are already putting in the work. 

"I love the clean and minimalist look of the storage solutions in Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty office," says interior stylist Vivianne Chow. "Her white fluted sideboard behind the desk is also a great solution for closed storage to hide away any visual clutter."

Plus, a few home office organization ideas will keep spaces in tip-top shape, even sans Rare Beauty Liquid Blush. 

2. Add feminine touches

If it feels like you're channeling a ballet slipper, that's because you are — and the pros are here for it. 

"To ensure a seamless integration of styles, consider incorporating a blend of soft, delicate hues such as pinks and nude tones like Selena did," says designer Elizabeth Vergara. "This infuses a sense of refined glamour while maintaining a soothing ambiance."

What's more, Selena decided to add a few modern accents, like the chairs, to make the space a feast for the eyes. 

"I love how she took into account the importance of rounded furniture pieces, not only do they add a contemporary flair, but they also contribute to a cohesive design narrative," Vergara adds.

3. Pay attention to lighting

Yes, you want to be alert in your workspace, but you don't want your eyes to feel strained from such a bright light. When possible, work with dimmers and opt for LED lights. 

Marzia Dainelli, CEO and interior designer at Dainelli Studio, swears it will make all the difference. 

4. Avoid contrast

For a space so feminine, it's crucial to maintain that look throughout the entire space. Don't break up the flow with pieces that won't integrate well into the aesthetic.

"It's important to use soft materials, warm natural tones," Dainelli says. "Stay away from stark whites, greys, or strong black accents."

5. Make it welcoming

These days, our home/office balance is a bit...off (to say the least). If you need to gather with your associate to work on a presentation, or even if you're going to appear on a generous amount of Zoom calls, you'll need your space to look the part.

"Even when working from home, many home offices still benefit from spaces that allow for collaboration," says Dave Adams, VP of Marketing at BDI Furniture. "Instead of meeting at the office, clients and co-workers often visit colleague’s home offices, so this is where a space for collaboration counts."

Shop the look

Now it's time to channel your favorite star. Home office designs everywhere are about to get a taste of Selena. 

Prices were accurate at the time of publication.

Will the star and Our Place partner soon add "interior designer" to her résumé? We'll cross our fingers for a future collab, but in the meantime, we're swooning over the Our Place Dream Cooker release. (Perhaps it'll appear on Selena + Chef?!)

OK, Urban Outfitters desks... you really came through and redefined what I thought hot desking meant. This collection is absolutely fire and so subtly diverse. I can picture a different one of my friends at every desk and that's what makes this range so fab.

As a writer who spends ample time propped up at my desk, it's no surprise that the importance of one is not lost on me. I'm vehemently against the idea of working at the kitchen table if it can be avoided (compartmentalizing is key) and I never got into the working-from-bed fantasy (but no judgment if that's your scene, you do you, girl). 

Therefore, putting together this list of the best desks in the Urban Outfitters furniture range was a dreamy endeavor, and choosing my fave was a struggle. So, have a look through this roundup and find your winner. But don't wait too long to make your decision, these are selling out quickly! 

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

12 of the best Urban Outfitters desks 

Wooden desks

Metal desks

Boho desks

How we chose these Urban Outfitters desks

As an Urban Outfitters aficionado, I know the UO collection like the back of my hand. Therefore, with prior familiarity, I took a deep dive into the desk range and took reviews and ratings into account. After this, I made sure to include a range of materials and sustainable choices wherever possible, picking pieces made from eco-friendly woods such as Mango wood and bamboo.

Now that you've found a place to organize your papers and stationery, finish the look with a statement Urban Outfitters lamp.

Looking back to my college days... I wish I had my pick of these Target desks. You see, a lot of my homework and assignments were either done on the sofa at home. Or — when I lived on campus, the small desk that came with my dorm room was etched with free graffiti, and the underside was decorated with gum... gross.

Thankfully, Target is one of those retailers where you can guarantee small space furniture that isn't going to put you in your overdraft. So I've gone shopping and put together a Target desk edit, listing highly rated (4 stars and above, bb) and best-selling pieces.

I've sectioned this piece into desks with a li'l something-something in the way of organization, by color ('cause nothing revives a drab dorm like a fresh white table), and size (leaning towards the under and up to 40-inch diameter). Oh, and once you've shopped for a writing or computer desk, it's time to consider a cute office chair too.

The best Target desks to buy

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing.

Target desks with storage

Whether you're popping your Target desk in a small apartment or dorm bedroom, a couple of drawers will work wonders to keep your space organized. It also means no scary DIY (attempting to put up shelves), a wall free from nails (hey, rental deposit), and no greasy spots left by tack either!

White Target desks

You can't beat a classic white Target desk. Forget thinking that they're too high maintenance. Most come with a lacquer that makes it easy to wipe off spilled soda and coffee.

Small desks at Target

If you've drawn the short straw with your siblings, or at college, you may have to search a li'l bit harder for a small desk at Target. Thankfully, I've done some filtering to find you the best furniture that'll fit in the snug of spaces. Make use of alcoves, cubbies, and foldable features to get the most out of your scheme.

How we chose these Target desks

We curated this edit of Target desks based on the reviews and star ratings of shoppers in the States. As such, these Target desks have all been proudly approved by the people whose opinion matters most. In picking them, we've erred on the side of practicality, affordability, and — above all else — style.

Up next: Where to buy office chairs for the most aesthetic WFH set-up ever

As we're heading towards the end of the summer, you may be getting some serious back-to-school scaries. Starting a new semester can be a li'l daunting, but you'll totally feel better about it if you're prepped and feeling confident, trust me.

I don't know about you, but I loooove when the back-to-school section pops up at Target. Gel pens? Composition notebooks? Count me in. I've channeled this love of all things stationery into college with some cute back-to-school stationery you're gonna need this semester. 

Whether you're shopping for dorm supplies or confirming your class schedule (avoid those 8 AMs!), take a minute to look over my top stationery picks to make your school year easier.

Cute back-to-school stationery

If there’s one space that can get cluttered and disorganized quickly, it’s a small desk. Between housing notebooks, papers, pens, planners, and a seemingly endless amount of sticky notes, your workspace can serve as an area that provides you with more stress than structure. Not only is this visually unappealing, but it’s also not a functional way to live or work — yikes!

Whether you’re trying to set up an apartment desk, dorm desk, or a small WFH space, these organized spaces will inspire you to create a tidy area where you can get through your to-dos. Plus, we’re sharing some hacks and useful organization products that will allow you to easily maintain an organized desk. Happy working awaits.

1. Utilize your wall space

When organizing a desk, it’s easy to forget that not all of the useful space is located directly on the desktop. If you have wall space that can be utilized, be sure to take advantage of it. This chic work area proves that just a simple metal grid can lift papers and notes off of your work surface. Use a grid to hang your latest meeting notes, to-do list, or calendar.

2. Raise your computer

Using a raised computer or laptop stand means that there’s more room on your desk to spread out. It also looks more streamlined and organized. Some stands even have built-in shelves and drawers for extra storage.

3. Go big with extra storage

Most monitor stands are made to just lift up your electronics, however, this setup shows that you can score more space by choosing a stand that’s extra long. While dual monitor stands can be used for storing two screens, they can also be used to set other office staples on top of. Try placing your pencil holder, speaker, chargers, or notepads on top of a large monitor stand to get the most out of your work surface.

4. Keep your desk drawer in check

What’s inside your desk drawer matters too. Rather than opening it to a chaotic mess, keep things tidy by setting your office essentials in small organization trays. Group like items with each other (like pens in one organizer and highlighters in another) so you can easily grab whatever it is that you need.

5. Create a filing system

Sometimes you just need more room than what your desk can provide you with — and that’s okay! If you’ve tried to scale down on your office necessities but can’t seem to cut back, use a simple filing cabinet or storage bins to house anything excess. This is a smarter way to handle extra materials and necessities as opposed to squeezing everything onto your desktop — which would only create more frustration down the road.

6. Keep your to-do’s on a bulletin board

When your to-do list is in front of you, it’s likely that you’ll be more inspired to tackle it. This is where using a bulletin board can come in handy. Pin your list and any other reminders or notes to it so it stays top of mind. Using a bulletin board will also ensure that you don’t misplace any important paperwork — and it will free up space on your work surface.

7. Use a combination of organizers

Sometimes the best way to get organized is to use a combo of items, and this desk is the perfect example of that. Try using organizers that have drawers, cubbies, shelves, or slots that you can place your most used office supplies inside of. That way, you can test out a system that works best for you. (Spoiler: It might just be a variety of them all!)

8. Try a wire basket

Keep incoming or outgoing paperwork sorted in a wire basket. This way, you can keep your desk free of random paper and bills that might keep you from focusing on your work. Using a letter tray is another easy way to stash material that needs to be taken care of when you have spare time.

9. Keep everything lifted

To gain the most from your workspace, you’ll have to maintain a desktop that offers you ample room. This might mean that you need to use shelves to store your supplies. Don’t be afraid to use hanging storage options if it gives you more space to spread out and do your work. Just be sure to check with your landlord before drilling anything into the wall.

10. Keep your calendar clear

Last but not least (and arguably most important), keep your calendar in check by using a desk pad that doubles as an agenda. This can help you eliminate the need for a planner and it’s easy to write and type on top of.

We get it. Dorm life is an adjustment. You’re living in a compact space and you’re sharing it with someone who you may never have met before. Plus, your dorm supplies need to include everything for eating, sleeping, studying, and hanging out. It’s a big change and one that can take a lil’ time to get used to. 

When your sleep and chill-out space is also your study space, it’s hella easy to get sidetracked. Take it from me, the queen of getting distracted (something I still struggle with today). Keeping your focus while getting homework done in a dorm room isn't always easy. For one, there’s often a whole other person in there with you doing their own thing. Then there’s the noise from other students on your floor. 

That being said, studying in your dorm room doesn’t have to be a struggle — all you need to do is create the right setup. So, how can you create the perfect dorm room workspace? I've got you covered with a list of tips.

1. Keep your desk organized

First things first, you’re never going to be able to study effectively if your desk is a mess. So, it’s vital that you learn how to organize a desk and keep it that way. The key to success here is to ensure that you have adequate tabletop storage. Think: desk organizers (Amazon has some really cute rose gold sets to choose from like this one), pen holders, and wall-mounted peg boards, such as this Amazon pick that only uses adhesive, so there's no damage done to your walls.

2. Create a cute desk setup

Organization is key but having a desk setup that you love is just as important when it comes to actually wanting to study there. If it’s just a plain wooden desk that your dorm features, you can customize it to create a more personalized space. An easy way to do this is to pick out a roll-out desk mat in your color of choice (this one from Amazon that I’ve had my eye on comes in lots of cute hues). You could also opt to add a stylish mouse and keyboard combo (like this highly rated wireless set from Amazon). While you might not be able to adjust the look of the desk itself, what you can do is personalize it, creating a setup that appeals to you. 

3. Make it easier to block distractions

When you share a dorm room it can be easy to lose focus, so finding ways to make blocking out distractions is a must. But, what can you do? As a gal who always got distracted while studying, take it from me, besties: There are some must-have buys that you need. A pair of noise-canceling headphones are essential (like these highly-rated Sony ones from Amazon). You can use them to play your fave tunes, podcasts, or white noise playlists. You might also find a good white noise machine to be beneficial if headphones aren’t your thing, but you’re still looking to block out background noise while you study. 

4. Ensure your desk chair is comfortable

Your dorm may have come with a desk or office chair, but if it’s not very comfortable this can hinder your ability to study effectively. If you’re allowed to swap out the chair you have with a new one, then you’ll find some really great picks at Target, like this upholstered swivel chair that’s both comfortable and stylish or this five-star rated ergonomic chair that reviewers love. If you’re not in a position to swap out your chair, another option is to upgrade the chair you have. An easy way to do this is to invest in a desk chair set of support pillows. We'd suggest this highly-rated gel desk chair pad from Amazon.

5. Get your lighting in check

You can’t study in a dark space, so making sure your desk set-up features good lighting is vital. Your dorm room will obvi have overhead lighting (ew), but to avoid having to use it and create the best ambiance, you'll want to pick out some cute dorm room lighting buys. To help keep your power sockets free for laptop chargers, opting for a rechargeable desk lamp could be an option worth exploring, too.

Listen up besties, we get it. Studying in a dorm isn't always easy. But with the (tried and tested) tips above, you should find it a little easier to keep your focus and get your studying done. 

If you're a klutz and you WFH like me, you're gonna need some sort of cable management for desks. I'm ashamed to admit that not only did my office space look like spaghetti junction once upon a time — but I've also almost tripped over it all with my hot coffee in hand... whoops!

As well as a good desk organizer, you'll want to invest in more home office organization ideas to ensure you can boss your day and be productive as poss. One easy way to do this is to make sure your laptop and phone chargers aren't wrapped up in a French braid or a knot that you can only remember how to untie thanks to your Girl Scout days.

I've got my eye on nine cable management fixtures. Some merely stop your wires from wrapping around each other, while other products work to keep cords completely out of sight. I've also tried to separate this out by purpose so that you have items that function well in, on, and under your desk, as well as some pretty cool boxed options.

9 of the best cable management fixtures

On desk cable management

Cable management boxes

Under desk cable management

FAQs

How we chose these cable management accessories

Unfortunately, we don't have an unlimited budget to test out the best cable management accessories. So in this case, we've relied on verified reviews from retailers. We've filtered search results by the number of stars and also identified what customers like most about these specific items, identifying trends when undertaking our qualitative research.

We'll look at things like how big the accessory is and how it fits into your living space. For example, does it need to be drilled in or does it have an adhesive attachment? Plus, if it does have a sticky backing, can this be removed without causing damage to your furniture?

Where to buy cable management accessories

Generally speaking, most homeware stores that sell electrical items will stock some sort of cable management system. Here are a few outlets to get you started:

• Amazon cable management
• Best Buy cable management
• IKEA cable management
• Lowe's cable management
• Target cable management
• The Home Depot cable management
• Walmart cable management
• Wayfair cable management

You might have been living under a rock for the past few weeks, either that or you're not on the Amazon side of TikTok. I'll forgive you either way, but for anyone and everyone who works from home, you need to see this find. A TikToker took one for the team and bought this super comfortable (and pretty nice looking) Amazon office chair. No regrets were had. After posting a video of this find and going viral, the chair has pretty much been out of stock since. I mean, I totally get why.

Don't just take TikTok's word for it, either. Amazon reviewers have praised the plush seat with one noting that "this chair is honestly everything." The specs speak for themselves. It's designed to support you while you work thanks to it being totally adjustable, and it's wide enough for you to sit crossed-legged as you type. I thought its looks were the best part but clearly, I was wrong. You can wave goodbye to that eyesore office chair that you picked up from Facebook Marketplace all those years ago. Au revoir, adios, arrivederci, yasou...

This office chair is stylish enough to put in your living room or bedroom without wanting to cover it in clothes. Here's the Amazon office chair I am raving about, in the flesh and currently in stock. The price of chic comfort isn't cheap ($219.99, to be exact), so I've also found two alternatives that are around the $140 mark. All are highly rated by reviewers, obvi.

Let's take a look at this viral office chair in action.

TikTok's viral Amazon office chair 

Not your vibe? DW, we've listed out all of the places you'll want to shop for a new office chair

Whether you're new to the world of WFH or have been sitting behind a screen in your abode for years now, having a super comfy office chair is so important. Trust me: I work Monday and Friday from my dining table and the other days in the office. Thanks to an ergonomic desk chair, I'm totally productive (and much more motivated) three out of five days. Less so, when I'm working from home (sigh). 

Aside from the usual laundry pile or delivery person, a hard chair that doesn't support my spine simply distracts from my workload. And there's only so much work-from-bed my back and booty can take. If you're working or typing away for eight hours like me, then investing in a great desk chair is a must. 

This is why the desk chair you choose matters. Grabbing a cheap seat that doesn't suit you or your home style can put a strain on more than just your work day. But that's not to say you have to spend your life savings on somewhere to sit. If you're wondering where to start your search for a fancy new office chair, then I'm right behind you. From Amazon office chairs that feel (and look) luxe to stylish yet affordable Wayfair options, here are my favorite five destinations to shop for a fresh WFH seat. With a few of my fave picks, obvs.

1. Amazon

From the cream-padded Amazon office chair that's going viral on TikTok to stylish ergonomic options that'll support your spine, Amazon is *arguably* the best place to buy an office chair. There are so many (perhaps too many) office chairs to choose from, all of which have amazing reviews and ratings from home office gals, just like you. Better still, you won't have to wait to sit comfortably thanks to Prime.

2. AllModern

Meet your coolest coworker. AllModern has a range of gorg office chairs that will really look the part in your stylish apartment. Design-led without a luxury price tag, I really can't get enough of its mid-century styles in colors chicer than the standard black, white, or gray. Some are more expensive than the average Amazon find, but it pays to be pretty, right? On-trend but also supportive enough to get you through your work day, who knew an office chair could be this Instagrammable.

3. Branch

Branch is known for having the most stylish work-from-home essentials. Sure, its office chairs might be a little pricey, but are they worth it? Totally. Branch desk chairs are comfortable, supportive, and above all else, stylish. The classic ergonomic chair is loved by so many workplaces and office spaces, so why not get the same seat satisfaction, at home? Working from your apartment never looked or felt so good — even when you're makeup-free and wearing sweats.

4. Target

Yup, everyone's favorite store for pretty much everything for your home from organization buys to new coffee mugs, Target is a one-stop-shop for getting your WFH space in shape. There are simple black leather chairs perfect for taking to college and other options in on-trend materials like leather and bouclé to go with your interior aesthetic. These are three of its best-selling swivel chairs you can pick up in your next #TargetHaul. 

5. Wayfair

What can't you find on Wayfair? From TikTok-approved home decor to fancy furniture at an equally impressive price, you could upgrade your whole home with Wayfair picks alone. The site has plenty of office chairs, too. They're sleek, stylish, and more importantly affordable. (There will be lots of Presidents' Day deals happening soon, so it's worth checking those out). If you can't get the office chair of your dreams by using the filters on Wayfair, then honestly, I can't help you. 

The WFH lifestyle can be tricky. On one hand, it’s an incredibly convenient, modern luxury that some of us are lucky enough to experience. On the flip side, working from home can cause the lines between career and play to become increasingly blurry.

Apartment living adds another unique layer: limited space to do said work and limited space to relax. It’s essentially the perfect design storm.

Challenging floor plans and modest square footage can make it difficult or impossible to set up a proper office, and if you're mostly decorating and editing an apartment on a budget, that can be even tougher! So, what’s left? Resorting to your couch can be too tempting (hi, Netflix!) Your bed is supposed to serve as a dedicated space to unwind. Sitting in your dining chair all day gets uncomfortable. What’s a girl supposed to do?

Home office essentials that work hard

Before you get frustrated and claim that your WFH situation and apartment living just don't jive, consider more out-of-the-box solutions. Designing a productive space is possible if you take some time to get creative with it — no corner office needed.

Use these tips, tricks, and helpful finds to craft the workspace of your dreams, all while sticking to a budget.

What should every home office have?

It really depends on how you work and on your existing environment! If you need a desk, one that suits your space will be essential. And if you need it to work double-time as an island, that's no problem as there are a ton of portable (and cheaper) kitchen island picks, ripe for slotting into small spaces. 

Alternatively, if you're planning to use your kitchen table or breakfast nook as a proper desk, opt for cozy accent chairs made with fabric rather than basic wood to make your seating arrangement feel extra inviting, and focus on those little extras like lighting and time-management props for a super cozy setup all day long. Your WFH space needs to help you feel grounded and inspired, so don't be afraid to try different things until you find the perfect layout and environment for you to do your best work ini!

Unlike a decade ago when our photos would be developed by a professional and carefully stored away in boxes, memories these days are usually relegated to Instagram and Facebook, barely looked at once they are pushed below the fold.

While there are plenty of online photo services, products like the Kodak Step Mini Printer aim to save you the time and money of getting someone else to develop your snaps. Simply load the paper, download an app, and you've got physical versions of your photos within seconds.

We tested the Kodak Step to see if it could deliver on the promise of near-instant photos. Keep reading to see what we thought, and head on over to our guide to the best small printers for more comparison.

Kodak Step Mini Printer: key specs

• Type: Photo
• Technology: Zink
• Print size: 2 x 3in
• Print resolution: 313x400 DPI
• Dimensions: 4.5 x 2.9 x 0.8in
• Weight: 0.41lbs

Kodak Step Mini Printer: set-up

The quick start guide provided with the printer is extremely minimal. A diagram pointing to the different buttons and lights and a QR code to download the app are all you get, but that's a testament to how simple the Kodak Step is to use.

Controls on the device are limited to 'reset' and 'power' buttons, while there are indicator lights for charging and status and a micro USB port on the back. To insert the paper, simply slide the top off as indicated by the small grey arrow. Then you just need to download the Kodak Step Prints app. 

You can create an account in the app or bypass this if you want to go back to it later, and the service will bring up your phone's photo library. Then it's just a case of scrolling through until you find that perfect snap. Be selective, though. A replacement pack of printer paper for the Kodak step will set you back between $50–$60 for 100 sheets (and in the UK approximately £25 for 50) on the company's website, which is a significant chunk if you plan to use the printer frequently.

Kodak Step Mini Printer: performance

Once we had selected the photos we wanted to print, we had a huge array of customization options to choose from. The first is filters, which range from the subtle to the more artistic. Think old-school Instagram.

Frames and stickers allow you to adorn your pictures with fun borders and images, and you can also add text. Then there are ways to adjust the image's size, brightness, temperature, and sharpness. Basically, Kodak offers all of the basics plus some more whimsical options to personalize your printout.

It takes a few seconds for the printout to materialize, and it's essentially a miniature version of the normal 4x6" photo size rather than a Polaroid-style one. The photo has a slightly faded appearance, making it look lower quality than with other mini printers we've tried.

This is down to the technology used by the Kodak Step. Zink printing doesn't use ink (hence the name – zero ink) but rather creates the image by heating various existing layers in the paper. The benefits of this are that the pictures can be handled immediately, and a fun sticky back can be used for scrapbooking or just pinning it to the edge of a mirror.

The drawbacks are that color reproduction isn't as good. Still, the pictures look fine if you aren't too hung up on getting top quality results.

Kodak Step Mini Printer: design

The Kodak Step is a palm-sized little device that can easily be slipped into a handbag or side pocket, and weighing just 0.4lbs, you'll probably forget it's even there (in a good way!). The white case on our sample is simple but classy, with small black and yellow lines on the front and back for branding.

If you want something a little more exciting, the printer also comes in black, pink, and blue varieties – with the latter two bright and fun enough to please a younger teenager who wants a gadget to help immortalize those memories.

Though designed to be portable, you should be aware that the Kodak Step is neither water nor drop-proof, and there are warnings in the quick start guide letting you know that getting the printer wet or being too rough with it can lead to a broken device. It also doesn't respond well to dust or humidity, apparently.

Kodak Step vs Canon Selphy Square QX10

Mini photo printers have become popular as we fall back in love with physical photos, but there are still only a select few to choose from. We also recently tested the Canon SELPHY Square QX10 and found it to be a fun way to get high-quality Polaroid-style prints. However, we had some reservations about its cost per use and slight temperamentality. 

The QX10 is about twice as heavy as the Kodak Step, though still light enough to carry around easily, and it requires both replacement paper and ink. On the other hand, Kodak's Zink printer only needs paper. The overall quality of the prints from the Selphy Square QX10 was better, but we had trouble with an ink jam. The Step, meanwhile, operated smoothly throughout the testing process.

Kodak Step Mini Printer: our verdict

The Kodak Step Mini Printer would be a good pick for anyone who wants a portable way to print photos at home, with sticky-backed paper allowing you to go straight from your Instagram feed to a scrapbook. It's also available at a good price for this kind of device, but unfortunately, the quality of its Zinc prints isn't quite up to the standard of some competitors.

About this review

The Kodak Step Mini Printer was tested in the writer's home for a period of several weeks to ensure our opinions could be backed up by as much hands-on experience as possible. We used the iOS app to access our photo reel and choose photos to print. The Kodak Step was kindly provided for review purposes. For more on how we review products, read our guide on how we test.

If you're into the new groove of home working but looking at ways to refresh your setup, your answer could be closer than you think. Whether you've got a tired-looking shed or a big ol' outbuilding that's a little out of use, creating a home office garden room that you are proud of is within reach. 

Follow these steps below to transform your unused space into a fabulous new home office and be the envy of the office on those zoom calls. 

This is a DIY project for those pretty comfortable with power tools but it's also not overly complicated and the edits are mostly cosmetic. It illustrates a brick outbuilding transformation but the same could be done for a shed with a few tweaks. 

We’ve suggested building a wall of storage, as well as space for a desk at the end to create your favorite home office look. This should still mean that you have the rest of the space to use as a room that you could use as a spare living room, gym or put a sofa bed!

Note: If you are transforming a brick outbuilding then it is worth having it plastered before starting any work.

Preparing to transform your space

You need to clear your space and design the layout. If you’ve used it as a dumping ground for some time then sort through the space and work out: 

• What is staying in the space 
• What needs to be stored elsewhere 
• What is going to the charity shop

For those items that are staying, it’s important to consider them from a storage perspective so that you build storage that can accommodate everything. 

Select the largest wall length-wise to build your storage along. Decide upon the number of doors and shelves you would like. In terms of selecting doors, a standard cupboard door width is 1981H x 457/533Wx 35D millimeters. They can be purchased in most local hardware stores.

The project illustrated used four standard doors, leaving space for your favorite desk at the end, with shelves behind the doors for storage. You should select the number of doors to use based on the space you have available. 

When planning your shelves, as mentioned in step one below, consider what you want to store. You may want to use the space to store useful but bulky items such as bikes, the lawn mower and tools as well as DIY items like paint and wallpaper.

To do this, opt for one large double storage space at the bottom to house large items, making the first shelf a few centimeters taller than the tallest item. Additionally, to decide on the depth, consider the amount of items that you want to store, standard shelf depth is around 40 to 50 centimeters; you can go deeper if needed but doing so may affect accessibility.

How to create your home office garden room

When it comes to materials, all the quantities will depend upon the size of your space. Tools that you don't have to hand are usually readily available from Amazon or The Home Depot also.

1. Measure your frame

You need to build the door frames using the 65 x 45 centimeter timber so there is enough strength and depth for the doors to be hung upon; this is serving the same purpose as the door frames or architraves in your house. Once the doors are hung you can add lengths of 40 x 19 centimeter wood behind them to make a rebate (a step in the wood) they can close against.

To measure your frame accurately, use the door sizes as a basis for your measurement; for example, if a standard door is 1981H x 457/533Wx 35D millimeters when building your frame allow an extra 2 millimeters (about the thickness of a coin) at the sides and the top so the doors can sit within it. It should be a three side frame; if you have single doors then you will have a frame around both sides and the top of the door, if you decide to install double doors then you will need a frame that sits around the two. Neither single nor double need a frame running along the bottom but you should allow 5 or 10 centimeters clearance at the bottom to allow for any carpet or floor covering you intend to use.

2. Cut and build your frame

To build the frame, use 65 x 45-centimeter wood to house the doors and act as the frame. You should use  45 x 45-centimeter wood to attach to the wall and form the supporting frame for the shelves so don’t cut any wood for those just yet, that is covered in step two. Once you have your measurements per step one, you can begin to cut your frame. Use a tape measure or builders ruler to measure your pieces of wood accurately and a set square to ensure you are cutting the wood in a straight line. When building the frame, ensure that you are installing it at the correct depth based upon the shelf depth you desire. For example, if you want shelves that are 40 centimeters deep then your frame needs to be built and extend to 40 centimeters.

Start with your first door or set of double doors. Begin by installing the sides of each door, attaching it to the ceiling and floor with right-angle brackets, checking it is vertical with a spirit level as you go. Once the sides are installed at the correct distance to allow the doors to fit into the gap, then the head or top of the frame can be installed. Screw the wood in using appropriate screws and if required, use right-angle brackets for added strength.

Once you have done the first door or set of doors, move on to the next (beginning with the side) until complete. Take note that when building and installing the frame you need to ensure that the frame is 90 degrees square so that the doors will fit, to do this make sure you use a level to measure the wooden frame, rather than using your walls or ceilings as a guide as they may not be straight. Don’t worry that there is a gap between the ceiling and the top of your frame as you can cover this with coving or some other paneling later. When building the frame, screw each piece of wood in with appropriate screws, adding a right-angle bracket at each joint of wood to strengthen it. Screws for these brackets will probably be 3 x 25 millimeters. 

3. Build the frame for the shelves

Once your door frame is installed, you need to build a frame for each of the shelves to rest upon, using the 45 x 45 centimeter wood, cut at the desired depth and height you have decided upon based on your storage needs. You need to build a frame that will sit around each side and the back of the shelf, aligning the sides of the frame to that built for the doors so that they can be attached to the side of each door frame.

Begin with the side, and cut a piece of wood to fit between the wall and the door frame. Attach this with screws at the desired height of your first shelf, ensuring it is level with your level as before. Then repeat for the back and remaining side of the shelf. Repeat this for each set of shelves in your cupboard. 

4. Measure, cut and install your shelves

You can build your shelves from MDF, check the weight that the MDF will hold before you purchase it based upon the items you want to store; the thicker the MDF the more it will hold but the more expensive it is likely to be. To avoid any sag in the shelves you can either insert an extra cross piece of 45 x 45 centimeter wood beneath the shelves, using right angle brackets or alternatively, you can use slightly thicker MDF; it is worth checking the cost to see which is the best option for you. 

Once your frame is built, measure your shelves, using the frame that you have built as a measurement guide; the shelves should sit upon and cover each frame. Note that you should have one piece of MDF per set of doors to maximize weight-bearing load, so if you have two double doors, each set of doors will have a set of shelves behind it, rather than using one single piece of MDF running the whole way along.

To measure your shelves, measure the correct length and width then mark with a pencil, ensure the line is straight using a straight edge such as a  spirit level and cut them using a circular saw. It is useful to have someone to hold the MDF as you cut it to help keep the line straight as you cut. Attach the shelves to the frame using screws, check the appropriate length based on the thickness of the wood that you have chosen. 

5. Hang the doors and finish the look

Once your frame is built, hang the doors using butt hinges, two per door should be sufficient but check with your supplier that they are sufficient in size for the doors you have chosen.  If you wish to, you can add coving or some other paneling to cover any gap you may have at the top, depending upon size of your original space.

You can also add a sheet of fiberboard to enclose the shelves, this can be painted or plastered for a cleaner finish. If you are working with a brick building that has been plastered then you may also want to finish the walls with skirting boards.

6. Paint the space

Paint the walls and doors as needed (you can get pre-painted doors if you prefer). Ensure that you choose eggshell paint for doors and wood, using a wall paint for the other areas of the office.

We would always recommend preparing the area using tape to ensure that you get neat lines as well using a brush to  cut in at the edges, and using a roller on the larger space.

7. Enjoy

Add in a desk and any finishing touches; you may choose to add in a dark, cheap carpet to make the space feel warmer but also ensure that you can move items such as tools or lawnmowers without too much risk of damage.

You may also want to style the space with some more expensive items such as lighting. Our outbuilding already had electricity but if you haven’t got this then you should be able to get an electrician to run this from your house for you, to give it more of a plush feel and a sideboard for some additional storage. 

Heating wise, unless you experience extreme cold, a small electric heater will be sufficient for the space, this should be perfect for winter and super cheap to create yourself!

Setting up a home printer no longer requires untangling numerous cables and reading lengthy manuals. Technology has advanced to give us smarter printer options that are not only fast and wireless but portable enough to take anywhere we go.

One of those smart, space-saving options is the Canon PIXMA TR150 inkjet printer. With its simple setup, you can print documents and photos within minutes, whether you are using your computer or smartphone. We've rounded up our choice of the best small printers in our guide.

Promising us a portable printer with seamless connectivity, we tested out the Canon PIXMA TR150 to see how it holds up for personal and business use. Is it time to bid farewell to clunky printers that take up far too much space in our homes and offices?

Canon PIXMA TR150: key specs

• Dimensions: L12.7 x W7.3 x H2.6in (closed); L12.7 x W12.1 x H9.7in (paper installed)
• Weight: 4.5lbs/5.1 lbs with the LK-72 Battery Pack
• Print technology: Inkjet
• Screen: 1.44in OLED display
• Page format: Up to A4
• Pages per minute: up to 9.0 ppm (black & white); up to 5.5 ppm (colour)
• Print resolution: 4800 x 1200 dpi
• Connectivity: WiFi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, USB Type-C (computer only), Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
• Double-sided printing: No
• Scanner: No

Canon PIXMA TR150: set-up

With a closed size only slightly larger than an A4 sheet, the Canon PIXMA TR150 printer can fit within even the smallest storage solutions at home. We set ours up on top of a home office shelving unit, but it could be even stored in a desk drawer if you wanted to keep your workspace clutter-free.

At first glance, and after having used a significantly larger home printer prior to this, the Canon PIXMA TR150 looks more like a game console than a printer, which is a bonus if you’re after a clean, minimalist look.

You will notice that the printer’s power cable is positioned on its right side, not on the back as it is for most home printers. Although the cable plugged into the printer is not bulky, it is still something to consider for your cable management or for purely aesthetic purposes.

The inks came already installed in our test unit, but when you first set up yours, lift the cartridge bay lid to install the print head, followed by two ink cartridges – one for color printing and one for black-only.

Depending on the device you use, be it a computer, tablet, or smartphone, you have a few options to connect to the printer. If you use a computer, you can download the driver software from the Canon website or use the enclosed CD. After that, connect the printer directly with the USB or use one of the WiFi settings on the menu, depending on your Internet setup. 

For Android and iOS smartphones and tablets you can find the printer so long as it’s connected to the same WiFi as your printer. For additional features,  download the free Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app but you can print without it, too. Considering how temperamental some printers can be, the Canon PIXMA TR150 felt like a breath of fresh air to set up.   

The printer also comes with an attached battery - you can buy it without one - that you can charge with USB, making it convenient for personal and work trips. The only downside is that you cannot charge the battery separately and it must be connected to the printer unit.

How does the Canon PIXMA TR150 printer perform?

Once you have connected everything, you can print your files directly from your computer folder or through the smart device app. The printer almost instantly receives the printing request and shows progress on its screen, as well as its ink levels, which is handy.

While great for space-saving, there are some compromises. Unlike larger printers, the front paper flap is small and doesn’t hold the paper as it comes out. You need to have it on a flat surface and with enough space for the printed paper, otherwise the paper will fall down. 

The paper tray feels a little flimsy, too. We found that sometimes if the paper was not inserted properly, the printer doesn’t notify, and you end up with slightly askew prints. Not a major issue but if you want to use it for photo printing, that’s ink and one sheet wasted.

The print quality was good overall. Documents had crisp, clear text with deep black ink, while color photographs on Canon's Photo Paper Plus Glossy II were more than adequate for a printer that hasn’t been designed to compete with professional photo labs.

If you want to tweak the print settings, such as selecting borderless or bordered printing or changing the paper size, you can do most basic functions using the app or directly from your computer file. But, if you use photo paper and want to get the colors spot-on, you may need to use more advanced software that has options for print calibration. 

One issue we noticed while printing from a smartphone was the printer needed the app to be open until the end of printing. On two occasions, having opened another app while the Canon print app was working in the background, the printer released the paper without finishing the job – not great if you’re multitasking using one device.

Design features of the Canon PIXMA TR150

The sleek Canon PIXMA TR150 design comes only in black, but considering its small size, it will hardly be a prominent feature of your home or office. Its monochrome OLED display is equally as small and blends in with the printer’s dark look. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a touchscreen nor does it tilt up.

We placed the printer in easy reach in our home office because of the plug socket nearby. But, if you don’t print on a daily basis, you may find it more convenient to not put it on display at all and store it away in a drawer to avoid gathering dust. You could tuck it away in even the smallest of workspaces.

Even if you don’t need to travel afar, the printer’s portability can come in handy around the house. Do you want to work on some documents or designs in front of your TV or on the kitchen table? Take the printer with you. Don’t have a free plug socket? Attach the battery and you are good to go. 

Canon PIXMA TR150: our verdict

While the printer lacks double-sided printing and scanning capabilities which would make it a great all-in-one solution, the ability to easily slide it into your bag and travel without any cables is appealing. The same goes if you have limited space – or don't want to clutter your home or office - but still have to print occasionally. 

There are cheaper Canon inkjet models available but none of them are as compact or portable as Canon PIXMA TR150, which are its main selling points. If you want to save space and may need to print on the go, it’s worth the premium. But, if you need a more robust personal or business use printer with additional features, like scanning, you’d be better off opting for a more comprehensive model.

About this review, and the reviewer

Anete is a freelance writer and product reviewer in the tech industry, ranging from photography software to home living products for a modern lifestyle. As a self-taught photographer, she is always on the lookout for smart home and business devices that are user-friendly and don’t take a genius to figure out. When she is not working at her desk, Anete can be found creating artistic projects and looking for ways to make her home smarter and more organized.

With more and more of us working remotely from home, often in multi-functional hybrid spaces, maintaining a calm and compartmentalized environment you live and work in is key. And when you've invested in a chic desk, implementing the most stylish and functional desk organization ideas is a must to keep your WFH space working for you. We've already rounded up our favorite desk organizers to buy, but here's some inspiration if you've got a small space to work with.

Because with a well-thought-out home office setup. we can be our most productive selves. Simple tweaks can make for easier starts and streamlined days, whether your head is in a spreadsheet or not...

Must-try desk organization ideas to improve your space 

Re-energize your desk to tie in with your favorite home office organization ideas for a stylish and productive workspace. Chris Harvey, interior expert, Stelrad, says: ‘A cluttered workspace makes for a cluttered mind, or so they say. An organized desk makes sense though, it’s inviting when you sit down at it and can help you feel motivated to get on with your work. Whether it’s your home office, a makeshift workspace in the corner of your living room, or a cubicle, a tidy space can be really beneficial.’

Virtual boxing gloves on – get ready to tackle bulky monitor screen monsters, filing fails, and stationery storms with expert desk organizing hacks that deliver above and beyond results. 

1.  Feng shui your desktop 

Clutter chatterboxes can bother and confuse – especially first thing on a Monday morning! Adopt the mantra tidy workspace, tidy mind, and create the perfect home office desk space to stay focused on work deadlines, and not get distracted by messy bits and bobs. 

Marty Basher, organization professional, Modular Closets, comments: ‘One easy way to an organized desk, is to get rid of any items that no longer work or that you have duplicates or too many of. No one needs to hang on to a stapler or monitor that’s broken and do you really need 500 pens?’

Amy Stansfield, interiors writer at Wallsauce.com, says: ‘There are only a few items you need on your desk. Your device – whether that’s a laptop, tablet, etc. A notepad and pen and maybe a potted plant to add a sense of calm. If you can, choose a desk with drawers so that you can organize items in there rather than keeping them on the desktop all of the time. Having a clutter-free desk is one of the top feng shui desk organization tips.’

2. Invest in some shelves 

Free up your desktop and expand your workspace with shelving ideas to store home office essentials like box files and stationery. Mix in decorative details and objects you love, to create a space-savvy and functional, yet visually stimulating environment that motivates your everyday. 

Julie Stobbe, professional organizer, Mind over Clutter, says: ‘Clutter may prevent you from having a large enough space to compile documents and the technology you need. The clutter may also become distracting causing you to lose focus and concentration. What’s the solution?  Mount a shelf that is  8” or 24 cm wide, 10 inches or 28 cm above your desk. This gives you lots of space for extra lighting, files, books, stapler, pens, brackets to hold cell phones or tablets. It is easy to reach, out of way and the shelf is narrow enough to still have good lighting on the work area. Between the desk and shelf, you have a space for a bulletin board, whiteboard or motivational pictures.’

Shoshanna Shapiro of Sho and Co. interior design, comment: ‘Consider the best floating shelves for easy access to frequently-used desk items, books, and art/photos. Storage in an office is key to reducing clutter. Incorporate a desk that has plenty of drawers so you can easily tuck away your files and papers. Only keep what you need to accomplish your task on your desk.’ 

Richard Petrie, home expert, Thomas Sanderson, says: ‘Install some shelves above or next to your desk. This will open up the room and create more floor space while making it easier for you to reach the things you need to complete your tasks at hand.’ 

Harvey says: ‘Install floating shelves. This isn’t just about making your space look nice, but it’s also a practical suggestion as well. Having multiple shelves means that you can not only store stuff on them, but you’re free to play around a bit and add whatever takes your fancy. It can be a bookshelf or a space to practice your green thumb. Floating shelves just gives you a few more options that you wouldn’t have if you just stuck to having one desk.’ 

3.  Use desk organizers to group items by type 

Keep unruly but essential stationery in check (yes we’re talking about you pens, pencils, and paperclips!) with a desk organizer. Choose metallic designs for a glam and shiny accent; add playful personality with patterns, or keep things calm and collected with natural or transparent materials.  

Jessica Litman, CEO and founder of The Organized Mama, says: ‘Clear your desk and find an organizer: In order to create a tidy desk, everything needs a home. I always start any organizing job by removing everything from the space. So clear your desk completely. Then group like items together. For me, I have notebooks and notepads that needed space on my desk, along with my Post-It notes. Find a desk organizer that can actually hold the items you need to keep on your desk. That’s why we group first, the find a product second. The product should help you maintain organization, not just a placeholder to collect more stuff! That is why I love these smaller organizers for the desk.’

4.  Keep tech tangles at bay with drawer organizers 

Avoid the tech terrors and keep multiple cable tangles at bay with home office storage ideas that turn a jumbled mess into an organized dream. 

Basher comments: ‘To maximize the space in and on your desk, install drawer dividers and other storage hacks. The key to an organized desk is efficiency. That can only be accomplished if the drawers allow a user to easily and swiftly find something that they need and put it away in the same manner. Fabric desk dividers (also known as fabric desk bins) provide extra cubby space for office supplies and smaller items. You can also get creative with miniature canning jars and even eating cutlery trays.’

Shiv Gupta, CEO of Incrementors Inbound Marketing, says: ‘Having a well-organized desk transforms your workplace from a run-down motel to the Ritz-Carlton in no time. A jumble of charging devices and tangled connections make for an untidy workspace right away. Reclaim your desk with a hidden charging station hidden within a drawer.’

 Lidia Salazar, home influencer, @everyday_homedecor, and @everyday_home, says: 'My biggest desk organization tip is to effectively manage all the cords by using a wireless keyboard and mouse, cable clips to contain and re-direct cords, and lastly, a cable management box to conceal the power strip and excess cords.'

Litman adds: ‘All those techy components of the desk area need a home too! I use these InterDesign Drawer Organizers to section off my tech stuff. I keep an organizer for my earbuds, USB cords, extra memory cards, and camera card transferer (and, yes, that is the technical name for that thing)! By creating a home for all of the tech gadgets, you can easily find them and not create a box of unused cords that you have no idea what they go to!’

5. Keep on top of paperwork

Despite supposedly living in ‘paperless’ times, the paper piles somehow continue to appear, on a daily if not weekly basis! Don’t let the relentless stacks develop, but instead tackle things with ‘now or never’ gusto, and develop good habits to last a lifetime. 

Litman suggests we ‘Deal with paper clutter immediately. Come up with a plan for dealing with the paper. I like using a tray or magazine holder to hold items I need to sort through. Then I either shred the papers using my GBC Shredder or file them. If I need to take action on a piece of paper, say a bill, I will do that when I am looking at it.’

Basher comments: ‘One organizational task that will have the biggest impact on clearing desk clutter is digitizing as much paperwork as possible. Storing files on your computer vs. in desk drawers or on top of your desk will alleviate the paper clutter that so often is the reason we can not find what we need when we need it and not as productive as we would like to be. Shred and recycle anything that you don’t need. Scan documents of which you don’t require hard copies; then back them up on your computer.’

6. Label with love 

Far from being excessive, labeling what’s what is one of the simplest (and most satisfying ways) of making sure things are easy to find, and put back where they belong. No excuses for losing things now!

Jessica Samson, cleaning expert at Maids.com, advises: ‘Labels can also be a highly beneficial tool to help you stay organized. Within each of your work zones, label accordingly and adhere to these labels. This will help you not only declutter but keep your work zones organized and clean over time.’ 

Litman says: ‘On all my drawer organizers I have labels that say what goes where. This way anyone in my family can put things away without asking. Because there is a label.’

7. Get creative with wall space 

Utilize your vertical space whilst creating a ‘visualization board’ of inspiring images and motivational prints, with a noticeboard or gallery wall idea, or hang stationery essentials like tapes and scissors on hooks, to keep crafty bits within easy reach. 

Home experts at Command Brand advise:

1. Hang tapes, cords, and other tools on the wall in front of your desk for more space and keep everything within arm’s reach. Try hanging with Command Small Metallic Hooks and organizing your cords with a Command Cord Bundler. 

2. Make your home office more efficient, and personalized, by hanging calendars, photo memories, succulents with Command™ Medium Designer Hooks to help you stay motivated throughout the workday. 

3. Keep that creativity flowing with inspiration boards, quotes, and images. Even try a whiteboard to keep though ideas flowing! Turn any space into your home office with Command Medium Picture Hanging Strips and Command Picture Ledges.

Basher comments: ‘Use vertical space. While it’s tempting to keep all your supplies on your desk, consider using your wall space for storage as well. Wall office supply holders can hold everything from files to staplers, tape dispensers, and much more. Adding a couple of shelves or cubbies above your desk also adds storage as well as decor space.’

8. Continue the story by recycling old books 

A good old home declutter always results in a mass of preloved items. But instead of automatically filling up the trash can, think mindfully, and re-gift surplus office supplies to friends, family, charity shops, and sustainable platforms. 

Brad Bonic, sellbackyourBook.com, comments: ‘A BIG part of decluttering & organization that is often overlooked is the question of what to do with the stacks of unused books that we tend to accumulate. Whether it’s a college student clearing out their often limited living/studying space or homeowners anywhere in the country, sellbackyourBook.com offers a free and easy way to sell your books and have them resold to others looking for bargains.’

9. Set-up work zones 

Get in the work zone and boost productivity with dedicated areas for specific tasks and items. 

Samson advises: ‘When organizing your desk, it is important to get a proper system in place. Setting up “work zones” can be highly beneficial. It is best to set up three main work zones for your desk. The first being a zone that you use frequently. This zone should be well lit, next to a window is possible, and should hold things that you use daily like files, folders, books, calendars, and other office staples. Zone 2 should be out of the way, but easily accessible. This zone should include books, files, folders, and other items that you only need occasionally. Zone 3 should be out of the way and include office supplies, water, or snacks that you replenish regularly. Keeping your items in the appropriate zones will help you declutter and stay organized.’

Samson continues: ‘Clean your workplace daily. At the end of each day take a few minutes to clean and organize your workspace. This will not only provide a positive work environment but will also help you stay focused and productive during the workday.’

10. Create a calm space with neutral shades and plants 

Bring the outside in, and create a mindful sanctuary to conceptualize, produce and create… A happy home office means a happy home worker. 

Shoshanna Shapiro of Sho and Co. interior design, comment: ‘Choose a calming, neutral color palette for the walls and furniture, and add color with accessories that speak to your style and interests. Houseplants can literally bring a room to life. Plants are a great addition to an office space.’ 

11. Stay on schedule with a planner 

Writing things down sets the wheels in motion for taking action and getting things done. And who can resist a selection of gorgeous stationery to pretty up the desktop?

Monique Snyder, owner of the innovative planning and organization stationery company, June Paper Market, says: ‘My tip - Always keep a planner on your desk. Why? A planner will help you keep your schedule organized and track everything that needs to get done. Regularly using a planner will reduce mental clutter and keep unfinished tasks from looming over your head.’

'Declutter your thoughts, and organize your day all with this Daily task notepad planning tool. Because this planner pad is un-dated, you’ll never have to worry about wasted pages. '

12. Employ drawers as the ultimate office assistant

When thinking about how to set up a home office for comfort and productivity, combining different storage solutions is key. Keep your workspace tidy, and stow essentials and tech out of sight and out of mind, but within easy reach with drawers under your desk or a drawer tower (organized with the pre-mentioned drawer organizers of course!) 

Stansfield shares her must-have desk organization pick: ‘A small set of drawers for under the desk. Underneath your desk’s tabletop there is often a vast amount of space. So don’t waste it! Keep a small set of drawers underneath with at least one drawer that has a lock and key. Although the world is more digital, some workplaces have hard copies of important docs and this drawer is what will keep them safe. If not, it’s a great spot for hiding your secret stash of chocolate or candy! You don’t want anyone else getting their hands on those!’ 

13. Make yours to-go

If you’re a digital nomad on the constant move, or just like to flex things up between home and cafe working hot spots, then a portable workspace is the perfect pick for you. 

Worky The Home Office is the first-ever portable workspace in a box. It is the ideal solution for today’s mobile work and study setups – allowing remote workers to quickly set up and put away desk stations anywhere (hybrid office, kitchen table, desk, etc) and easily store away for an organized and decluttered living space.

Worky The Home Office brings together 15 key elements of a productive desk set up in one convenient, mobile solution. Benefits include:

*Holds paperwork, pens, charging cords, and sticky notes to keep one’s work items gathered 

*Built-In Power and Device Charging

*Built-In Video Conferencing Light 

*Built-In Storage

*Magnetic Dry Erase Board

We're sold.

14. Go minimalist with a floating desk 

In a multifunctional living room-meets-home office, utilizing every inch of space at all levels is key. Opt for a floating desk that has minimum impact on floor area, whilst adding functional value to the space. You can even choose a folding desk design that doubles up as a shelf when not in use for extra space-saving savvy. 

Lucas Travis, founder of Inboard Skate and minimalist lifestyle advocate, says: ‘Table legs can be quite frustrating and take up unnecessary space. Floating tables are the minimalist standard, especially to those with odd corners or work in a small room.’

Dominic Harper, organized entrepreneur and founder of Debt Bomshell, says: ‘A floating desk is the minimalist standard. It is the ultimate space-saving idea by keeping your office or room appearing neat and tidy by removing those unnecessary desk legs, making it easier to access any area of the work desk.’

15. Elevate your monitor 

Incorporate a computer monitor stand from the likes of Amazon onto your desk, to maximize the space on your desk with a vertical supply of storage beneath your monitor. 

Beril Yilmaz, designer and writer, Garden Furniture Sales, comments: ‘Consider investing in a laptop or monitor riser, this will give you more space on your desk and create storage areas for your stationery. Additionally, you can try adding floating shelves to the wall above your desk to store your books, stationery, craft supplies, and office must-haves.’

16. Optimize space around your desk

Think outside the ‘desk’ when it comes to getting the most out of your space, with a variety of simple storage solutions. A trolley on wheels is a great storage hack for additional storage on tiered levels that can be easily moved about and neatly tucked beneath the desk when not in use. Whilst handy storage baskets in all shapes, sizes, and woven and fun finishes, can happily hide all manner of paraphernalia in an effortlessly stylish way.  

Harvey says: ‘Don’t just rely on your desk to keep your office space tidy. Get some nearby cubbies, hooks, and baskets to keep the clutter off your desk so you’ll have plenty of room to work.’

Harvey continues: ‘If you’re short on storage space, then just take a peek around your house. Kitchen, bathroom, or craft supplies like mason jars, coffee mugs, a jewelry box tray, or even a makeup brush organizer could be great additions to your desk. Even something as simple as a cupcake holder can work well for storing different items and won’t clutter up your space.’

How should you organize your desk?

Harvey says: ‘A tidy desk is one that only has the essentials on it. This will obviously depend on your job, but it could simply be just your computer and an empty space where you can write and spread out should you need. You don’t want to get distracted by bits and bobs. Even making sure that your wires for your computer are tidied away properly and not just floating around your desk space can make a big difference. Simplicity is often key to a good work environment.’

What is the best way to organize office supplies?

Litman advises: ‘When storing your office supplies, you should keep the same items together. For example, keep all the tape together. That way, you know when you are running low. An easy way to create office supply storage is to use InterDesign Linus pantry bins. Store office supplies in the bins based on the category. I have grouped items such as tape and staples together. Then all the clips together, things like paper clips, binder clips, and binder rings. However you group the office supplies, make sure that all the same item is stored together so you can easily keep tabs on how much you have left so you know when to buy more!’ 

Kailyn Lowry is in the process of renovating her Delaware home and, this week, she shared an update on how her office is shaping up. The TV personality and podcaster has clearly adopted a 'go big or go home' approach for her home office storage, opting for two black bookshelf units that are nine feet tall.

They are huge – check them out on her Instagram. It's no wonder they got a lot of attention, with Pinterest trends showing that demand for “styling bookshelves” has risen by over 47% this year.

Kailyn Lowry's home office storage

Earlier this week, Kailyn Lowry posted two photos of her stunning black book cases on Instagram. 'I still cannot get over these beauties,' she writes. 

'@hillbuilditcreations really nailed it and executed the vision. Custom 9’ for my home office,' Kailyn adds in the caption. 

The two gigantic book cases tower over her in the photos, and offer SO much room for styling and experimenting with fun book storage ideas. Some followers asked if she had a ladder for reaching the top shelves, and we think the book case is crying out for a cute library-style ladder.

The curatorial black tone gives the shelves a really modern look, and will help books, home decor and houseplants to stand out. The lower cabinets are handy for storing away less aesthetically pleasing office supplies, finished off with sleek gold hardware.

Rustic furniture and decor company Hillbuildit customized the size, layout, design, shelving, and color to create a unique feature for Kailyn's office. Molding pieces will be added to the top so they fit perfectly into the wall when installed.

If you love the look but are decorating on a tight budget, Malcolm from @designsixtyninecreated his stunning bookcase using the IKEA Billy bookshelves. The shelves create a dramatic focal wall as well as providing plenty of storage space.

Elsewhere in her home, the Teen Mom 2 star has chosen bold design statements – we previously wrote about Kailyn's choice of a statement kitchen worktop trend.

We can't wait to see how Kailyn styles these shelves.

On a frantic hunt for home office organization ideas before your next virtual call? Whether you’ve been waiting your whole life to work exclusively from home or you’re longing to go back to the days when catching up with colleagues took place in conference rooms and around the water cooler rather than on Zoom calls, there’s no denying that a new remote-friendly way of working is here to stay.

And with WFH comes a need for more permanent home office ideas – while that laptop on the couch was comfy for a couple of months, it’s high time to foster something a little more professional and organized to help streamline your office hours while ensuring little distraction and time wasted searching for a notepad or charging point for your electronic devices.

So, on our agenda, we've penciled in some things that'll make home office organizing that little bit easier. From luxe letter trays to fashionable filing finds (yes really), we show you how to boss the task at hand.

Home office organization that looks professional

'With more of the nation working from home than ever before, it’s no wonder that people are searching for storage ideas to keep their home office organized and neat' says Sam Baldry, head of design, Swoon.

'A clean workspace can encourage higher productivity and better mental health, creating a space that works for you (whilst you work) is important.'

1. Upcycle office essentials to boost your mood

Experimenting with carefully-coordinated bold prints and adventurous furniture is one way to create a holiday vibe in your home office, and an engaged mind can make the day go more quickly.

Make your home office your own by decorating with sentimental items, eclectic ornaments, and accessories. Working from home feels more like a vocational vacation when you surround yourself with feel-good finds!

'This home office look is all about making it your own, with sentimental items, unusual pieces, and accessories that remind you of places you’ve visited,' says Laurie Davidson, spring stylist, Homesense.

'Give your desk drawers an update with sticky vinyl tiles cut into a geo pattern, and add ethnic-inspired ceramics for a change of energy.'

2. Add wow-factor to your waste bin

Post-it notes, design proofs and food wrappers can all take valuable space on your workspace, so banish the trash by zhuzhing up a dull paper bin with some chalk paint.

This hand-painted red, black and white design has been created using Capri Pink, Old White, and Athenian Black  – all available from Annie Sloan.

3. Swap a traditional desk for something modern

Opening and closing drawers in search of your favorite pen, or that stylish stapler to group documents? Save the need for hunting and accidentally (on-purpose) slamming them by switching out a traditional desk with drawers for a glass table with transparent compartments.

Just like the adjacent open shelving unit, like this gorgeous gold ladder desk is functional and stylish and means that stationery can be seen in plain view in a modern home office. We love the ribbed glass trays too for that sleek and chic minimalist aesthetic.

4. Go for a 2-in-1 floating desk and shelf combo

When it comes to small home offices you need to be clever in creating a layout that doesn't look cluttered. Yes, the best desk might be on offer, be designer or have some other amazing unique selling point, but if you're scooting and shuffling around a long or width-reducing writing desk might cause more woe than it's worth.

Consider something like this shelf office to make use of vertical space and give the illusion of height to your ceilings. The slimline frame and sturdy wooden planks are the perfect balance of contemporary and industrial for a cool-looking space that allows you to be organized without the need for heavy and bulky furniture. 

5. Make your alcove work harder

Alcoves often get a bad rap for being that awkward niche that needs a bit more attention. But, rather than look at this recess as something you're reluctant to redecorate, jump in head first with home office organization ideas.

This cozy corner is perfect for installing a floating desk and shelving and, a contemporary pegboard to hook keys and the bits we might find in 'that' junk cupboard. Essentially the overall objective of smashing your home office organization goals is to maximize your home office storage opportunities that will work for you.

6. Make filing fashionable

While filing might not be the most thrilling of tasks, it's essential to sort papers into relevant piles to avoid looking scrappy. But if you haven't got a lot of surface space to work with, look to desks that deliver on file-friendly features, and are fashionable too.

The perfect balance between a characterful apothecary table and a functional desk, each drawer in this Lowell Desk from Cox and Cox sits on metal runners, can be completely removed, and is fronted with a card holder so that each can be labeled.

Combined with the wire wall organizer and the comfiest best office chair, this setup has all you need to stay on top of all-important invoices, forms, and business paperwork.

7. Make your gallery wall functional with calendar art

If your paper calendar is looking a little dog-eared and you haven't got an electronic device to hand, consider making your monthly organizer part of your gallery wall. As well as the usual family portraits or abstract art, this chronological wall art, available from Desenio will mean you can catch a glimpse of what day or week your social and professional events fall on. Because diary clashes are not part of the agenda.

Fancy something a little bespoke? Learn how to make a DIY wall planner for some homemade home office organization.

8. Create a colorful DIY noticeboard

If you don't want to invest in flimsy noticeboards and have a sample pot or two of paint lying about, why not add some interest with this budget home office design by Annie Sloan?

This decoration provides a purposeful place to place children's paintings, school reports, and whatever else needs your attention. Alternatively, it makes a cute kid-friendly design to pin homework and birthday party invites.

8. Store stationery in cool concrete compartments

Perfect for clean freaks, trendsetters, or as a home office for him, concrete desk organizers offer an edgy and eye-catching look for your desk. 

And, because they weigh more than their paper or plastic counterparts, they also make great paperweights for holding down those decision-making docs. 

If you're not a fan of the au natural grey blocks, get crafty with paint and decorate them in a color that'll match your office aesthetic.

9. Go glam with a gold letter rack

Not just for storing mail in style, a letter rack is a hot home office organization idea that can house your legal docs, envelopes, and lunch break magazines. So be a boss babe and slay your tasks with this industrial-but-boujie stationery stand.

Great for gifting to your work BFF, this luxe Mmetal organizer by Martha Brook can also come An optional gift box can be added, and optional metallic embossed gift wrap.

10. Swap plastic letter trays for patterned paper

Whether you want to reduce your consumption of plastic or want something some home office organization ideas that add color and interest, choosing a paper letter tray is an eco-friendly option that can add some excitement to your desk.

These muted motif boxes from Cambridge Imprint make a sophisticated and elegant addition to any desk, and won't look out of place in a traditional home office or cute country study, especially when placed on a rustic, reclaimed, or distressed wooden desk.

11. Use planters for paper storage

Think outside the (planter) box and use garden furniture for office storage. We love the look of this unfussy home office setup which has been set up with an extended marble window ledge and multipurpose container. Plus, if you do want to use it for its originally-intended purpose, the industrial boho mix of books and dried flowers oozes that healthy work-life balance aesthetic.

Alternatively, create an impromptu office-cum-home library by stashing your fave novels and literature classics in this compartment for a much-needed screen break.

12. Use lockers for a retro feel

Whether you're using the home office for corporate work, or your children are using the space for homework, vintage lockers have made quite the revival, not just in schools and commercial workplaces, but inside the home too.

They're a great home office organization tool for adding a touch of personality, and by choosing different colors, each family member can be held accountable for keeping the workspace nice and tidy – encouraging good habits for when you return to a professional place of work, school or college.

13. Use chalkboard paint for taking notes

If you've ever been on the phone, scrambling for a piece of paper or pen to take down all-important client details or contact numbers – this creative DIY desk idea is for you. In this dramatic black office, the wall has been painted in chalkboard paint decor to create an impromptu blackboard for notes and doodling (perfect for if you've been put on hold.)

Rust-Oleum® Specialty Chalk Board paint, available from Amazon converts surfaces into a usable chalkboard, and can be applied to metal, wood, masonry, drywall, plaster, glass, concrete, unglazed ceramics, and hardboard. It does contain latex, so worth noting if you have an allergy. Still wondering how to create a chalkboard wall? Our 8 step-tutorial is child's play...

14. Clad a wall in corkboard

If your current piece of corkboard isn't big enough to pin down your child's artwork or creative proofs – go hard or go home – quite literally with a wall made of bark-based material. 

By covering the wall in its entirety, there's no excuse for not staying organized. Use colorful drawing pins and go for wooden flooring to add personality and warmth to your home office.

15. Display stationery with a clear Lazy Susan

While some of us are completely content with taking down all notes, reminders, and dates digitally, others prefer a good old-fashioned pen and paper. 

Rather than struggling to find the right pen or highlighter in your junk drawer or wherever else you might have set it down, consider adding a modern desktop Lazy Susan like this one from Pottery Barn to your workstation—not only is it elegant but it’s actually quite practical and will come as a huge time saver.

16. Opt for a multi-functional printing station

If your job still requires you to print and scan documents, you might want to invest in a multi-functional printing station where you can keep all things printer-related in one compact area. One of the best small printers can easily be tucked under your desk or into a closet if you’re working with a tight office space.

17. Take your calendar offline with a wall insert

Used to working with a multitude of screens and endless desk space? It can be hard to downsize from two large monitors to just one – or even just a simple laptop. If you’re longing to have your calendar and to-do on display at all times, consider taking it offline and putting it up on the wall space above your desk. 

While it takes up pretty much no space at all, it’ll give way to a much more streamlined overview of the month ahead – and some reusable wall calendars even come with additional hanging storage.

18. Add minimalist dividers to your catch-all drawer 

Desk drawers can quickly become a drop space for any and all paperwork and access supplies if you’re not careful. But if you’re still trying to sort and organize that untapped storage space, consider adding a couple of minimal drawer dividers like this Malaren set from Ikea. 

They don’t take up much space in your desk but they’ll be huge in terms of keeping like items together and easily accessible.

19. Make filing fun with colorful magazine files

If you’re working with limited space and don’t necessarily want to take up precious floor space with a clunky filing cabinet? A handful of colorful magazine files will work just as well as a filing cabinet but can easily be tucked into your existing bookcase or left on the corner of your desk for easy access. 

An alternate idea would be to color-code your files based on the categories you find useful.

20. Reclaim vertical space with a modern pegboard

The wallspace in front of, or behind, your desk is valuable real estate! If you haven’t already gone vertical you’ll be amazed by the sheer amount of stuff you can store and organize on the wall. This modern SKÅDIS pegboard, available from IKEA, allows for a modular solution that can be organized and reorganized based on your needs.

21. Make the most of unused kitchen drawers

If you're in a fortunate position where your kitchen drawers aren't piled high with plastic containers and Tupperware – use this space as a bureau for office equipment and materials.

'Open-plan living is commonplace today and downstairs spaces are becoming increasingly multifunctional. Many of us now cook, relax and entertain in a single open space, so why not work there too?' asks John Lewis, owner at John Lewis of Hungerford.

'Whether you are redesigning an open-plan kitchen or adding a new function to your existing dining room, it’s possible to make working from home part of the purpose these spaces serve.'

'The trick is to maintain some kind of separation so that work doesn’t venture into the rest of your life uninvited. Living room cabinets that transform into writing desks, kitchen islands with filing storage beneath, and kitchen cupboards that quietly conceal a mini office are all distinct possibilities in these most modern of spaces.'

22. Divide your office and living room with a bookcase

Working from home can be a challenge, especially when other family members are lounging in the living room perhaps watching TV or gaming. So in order to stay focussed (and not be a party pooper on their social space), create a home office setup that is respectful to everyone's needs.

A double-sided cube bookcase (like this KALLAX bookcase from IKEA) is a practical and aesthetically-pleasing way to divide your workspace and the rest of your home without cutting out light or feeling boxed in. You can easily add convenient little boxes for subtle storage or fill the cubes with pretty accessories and decor to brighten up your space.

23. Create a workspace that folds away

If you’ve been struggling to find enough space in your home to set up a more permanent-feeling workspace, consider a folding secretary desk, available from Wayfair.

This compact design mounts onto the wall and is big enough to comfortably store your laptop, notebooks, pens, calendar, and any other work-related essentials. The best part? Once it’s folded away it resembles little more than a simple wall shelving unit.

24. Consider a rolling utility tray for office essentials (or snacks!)

Sometimes grabbing your laptop and moving from the desk to the couch or other nooks and crannies around the house helps to break up the day and foster a new sense of creativity and focus – and a rolling utility tray like the Elfa white mesh file cart by The Container Store makes it even more convenient. 

Pack your tray with charging cables, extra pens, and any other day-to-day essentials and enjoy the convenience of a mobile workspace. Plus, the added bonus of beverages on tap means that you can stay hydrated – essential for remaining productive.

25. Make your own hot desks with individual storage

Likewise, working from home is even more engaging when you have multiple desk spaces to choose from. If you and your partner or roommate are both working from home at the moment, consider creating your own at-home hot desks.

The added space will make it feel a little bit more like a real office space – just make sure to have your own designated rolling cabinets to ensure your work essentials don’t get lost in the mix.

26. Create a cubicle for privacy and vertical space

Whether you’re struggling to set boundaries during your office hours or you just miss the vertical space that comes with an office cubicle, consider making your own with folding felt walls. 

Not only will it help you focus on the work in front of you but it also gives you a huge amount of surface area for notes, pen holders, calendars, and other work essentials.

27. Enlist the help of a portable storage basket

If your office essentials are pretty minimal, consider packing them all in a portable storage basket the NATADE storage basket from Ikea. 

Whether you keep it artfully arranged on your desk or you bring it with you from the couch to the dining room table, it’ll allow you to keep everything together without feeling tied down to one work zone.

28. Don’t be afraid of commitment (to shelving units!)

We can’t say enough about reclaiming vertical space – especially in the form of practical shelving ideas. If you’re worried about drilling into the wall when your home office might not be a permanent fixture in the house, don’t be.

The right shelving can be great for getting office supplies off the surface of your desk but they’ll work equally well for books and other home decor items once you’re back in the office.

29. Create a family-friendly DIY door organizer

If you want to organize the family, keep track of the kids’ activities and make lists of tasks and shopping all in one place, why not have a go at turning a door into a family organizer?' says Cassie Fairy, upcycler and owner of My Thrifty Life blog.

'It’s a handy space to make to-do lists and to keep an eye on what tasks need doing each week, whilst increasing your home’s storage space by utilizing every possible nook and cranny. Children can use the chalks to add their own lessons to the planner and will enjoy drawing you a lovely picture at the bottom of the door.'

'This space-saving family door organizer makes use of any odds and ends of DIY materials you’ve got lying around, such as a small section of guttering to store essentials, and copper pipe left over from a plumbing task to hold a roll of paper for shopping lists and pots full of pens and chalk.'

'You could use the door under the stairs, or as your office door to keep on top of tasks while working from home. It might even encourage your teenager to make a revision planner if it’s painted onto their bedroom door!'

30. Isolate the workspace

'Opt for a room divider or desk with built-in walls to carve out a designated area for work,' says Rachael Fell, furniture buying manager, Habitat.

'Isolating the workspace in this way evokes an element of seclusion which encourages focus and concentration. These clear physical boundaries also help mentally separate office and living areas, meaning it’s easier to leave work behind at the end of the day.'

31. Invest in flexible furniture

'Home working shows no sign of abating, so as a design studio we continue to put emphasis on products that support flexible living,' says Ben Stanton, designer, Habitat.

'This desk unit is designed and built to increase storage solutions whilst being adaptable to different home office needs. The unique swivel mechanism allows for a multitude of positions: the 'L' shaped desk can zone a space or make the most of unused corners, and it can also extend flat against a wall.'

32. Optimize the bedroom office

'For hybrid spaces like a bedroom office, consider the placement of the desk,' advises Fell.

'Face it towards a window or corner of the room if space allows to help compartmentalize the work area and keep bedroom cues out of sight. If a bed is visible in video calls, consider white or neutral bedding to create a simple, non distracting background. Our Fresh Vintage scallop bedding set in crisp white makes an ideal backdrop, defined by its unique curved edge in a bright yellow hue.'

What makes a productive home office?

We all wish a productive workspace was as easy as plugging a laptop into a free outlet, logging into Slack, and going about your day - but for most of us, a streamlined workspace involves a little more planning and preparation.

If you work mainly online, for example, you likely won’t need to set up a printer or color-code your highlighters and other writing utensils, but you may benefit from wireless charging zones and a visually appealing background for Zoom calls. It’s all about being honest about how you work and optimize your space so that your day-to-day operations can be executed as smoothly and seamlessly as possible.

Below, we’re rounding up a bunch of home office organization ideas that will help you achieve that dreamy workspace that is both stylish and productive. Whether you’ve set up a home office in a roomy basement, a spare bedroom, or you’re still posted up in the dining room, these smart ideas will make working from home a lot less hectic and much more harmonious.

And don't forget your accessories as home furnishings can play an important part in how engaged you are. The benefits of houseplants are scientifically-proven and are an affordable way to bring the outside in, and the best home fragrance (be it in candle, oil, or reed diffuser) can provide a wonderfully fresh smell to mimic the natural fresh fragrance to amplify or maximize your home office experience.

'Studies have shown that greenery can alleviate stress, and adding just one small plant to the desk will have a calming effect on the space,' says Anna Cross, home living buying manager, Habitat.

'Scenting the air with candles or diffusers is also a great mood booster; soothing notes of lavender are best for relaxation whilst invigorating citrus scents will sharpen focus.'

What is the best way to organize a home office?

'If you want to work from home and have a desk set up, nothing will aid productivity more than having natural light.' says Whinnie Williams and Kierra Campbell aka Poodle and Blonde.

'Always position your desk near a window, and to really maximize on daylight from above, consider adding VELUX roof windows to transform a space by flooding it with light.'

How can I organize my office space at home?

'If your office is a smaller space, why not opt for a folding desk such as the stunning Pembridge?' asks Baldry.

'This unobtrusive piece will hang on your wall unassumingly when not in use, and opens up to reveal a desk surface and hidden storage space for your stationery! As this piece takes up no floor space whatsoever, you can now afford to choose a larger chair with better support, helping you through your workdays with small wins. Speaking of small wins, the Pembridge also comes with built-in cable management holes. That’s what we call stylish yet functional.'

'Storing files, cables, and office equipment such as shredders may be essential, but it doesn’t mean you have an excuse to hoard clutter. To organize your belongings in the classiest of ways, opt for a sideboard such as the Katana. With three roomy cupboards and a stunning white façade, this asymmetrical sideboard will not only be the ideal space to organize your belongings but will also bring a calming, minimalist vibe to even the most stressful of environments.'

How to create an organized home office in a dining room

'One of the easiest ways to instantly improve a workspace is by swapping out a dining chair for an ergonomic office chair,' says Fell.

'When many spend more than eight hours a day working from a desk, these designs offer the cushioning and support needed in a range of trend-led styles to fit with any interior scheme.'

Whether you love it or loathe it, working from home is back. And with the New Year rolling around, we really need some satisfying desk organization in our lives. 

Marie Kondo has revealed the one item that will keep your desk looking oh-so neat, plus, it'll stop you from constantly looking for your charger. There are endless home office organization ideas out there that will make you look forward to sitting down and ticking off your to-do list. 

As far as organization sensation Marie Kondo is concerned, you need a compact container for storing all of your tech.

Now, we know it's not sexy, but it sure is practical. When we asked Marie Kondo which storage items we should all be investing in, she said all home offices/kitchen tables need a Tidy Tech Kit.

'This organizer keeps all your cords, earbuds, and chargers in one place,' Marie explains. We're feeling less stressed already.

'Whether you have a home office or work remotely, this kit helps you "shut down" for the day by putting everything in its place after you’re done for the day,' Marie Kondo adds. Marie Kondo also swears by this bathroom storage item to restore order in your bathroom cabinets – and these Marie Kondo tips for organizing your closet.

One of our main WFH gripes is how hard it is to switch off when there's no geographical distinction between work and home. Zipping up and stowing away your laptop charger, headphones etc. might be a helpful ritual to tell our brains that work time is over. 

Considering a couple of home office design ideas to revamp your space might also help you to be productive and to switch off at the end of the day. 

In keeping with the KonMari approach, this little tech case helps organize 'like with like'. The best bit, in our opinion, is that when you unzip the pack, it lies flat. So you can see everything that's inside and access it all easily.

With different sized compartments, it keeps larger items like a mouse and laptop charger separate from those small items that we're always misplacing. Picking up one of these will hopefully mean less time panicking because you've lost your charger, and less time spent untangling your headphones. 

A place for everything and everything in its place, as the saying goes. The tidy tech pack is made from sustainable fabric created from 100% recycled PET bottles. Nice.

Filling a room with natural light is one of the simplest yet most effective ways of transforming it: it makes it brighter, more welcoming and more comfortable. But it goes deeper than that, sunlight pouring into your room is good for your well-being; it can boost your mood, give you more energy and help you focus.

Creating a space that is a pleasure to be in but also somewhere that you can concentrate has become so crucial to us all as our working patterns have shifted. First it was during the pandemic when we all had to stay home and dining tables –  or any flat surface that wasn’t being used for homeschooling – became desks.

Now, even though offices have reopened, we have embraced new, more flexible ways of working. Some of us are splitting our weeks between home and office, others are WFH entirely and enjoying a commute-free working lifestyle. Some have even embraced the opportunity to carve new career paths for themselves, emboldened by the ease of the switch to home working, and have struck out on their own.

Whatever your reasons for needing a permanent home office, upgrading the makeshift arrangements that saw us through lockdown into something more business-like – and more creatively stimulating – has become paramount.

Location, location

First you need to find your space. It doesn’t necessarily need to be big, or even in a separate room – though that would be preferable – but it does need to be dedicated to your 9-5 tasks. This is an investment not only in your career, but in your comfort and happiness, so making it the best it can be will not only enhance your productivity but also your enjoyment of being at work.

If there are no rooms to spare, could the loft be converted? It has ample floor space and head space can be created. If you have an open-plan layout downstairs, is there a corner of the kitchen/
diner/living area where a desk could be incorporated alongside your units and cupboards. The bonus of this setup is its proximity to the coffee maker or kettle, so you can still have a quick Zoom chat with colleagues as you break for a brew.

Let in daylight

The next step should be looking at ways of bringing in natural light. Light is proven to lift your mood, to make you feel less tired and more alert and energised, and it aids focus. If you have a roof window, it can give you the chance to rest your eyes and look at something other than a screen. If you have a rooflight, you can study the skyline or even track the day so you know when to clock off and not have your work merging into time you should be spending with your family or relaxing in your home (if it’s dark out, that’s your cue to switch off the laptop!). It can also provide ventilation, which could be essential to stop your room feeling stuffy on warm days.

Installing or retrofitting a skylight can be the most effective way to bring in daylight; whether it is on a flat roof or pitched, it will bring in up to three times more in the same area than vertical glazing. And they give a more even distribution of light, so there are no gloomy corners. A VELUX rooflight can be installed quickly – in around two days – with little disruption, and it is surprisingly affordable, costing from as little as £295 (excluding installation). Plus, the more you rely on natural light, the less you will have to depend on artificial light, saving energy and money off your bills.

A place with purpose

When furnishing your room you need a good desk with ample room for a laptop, possibly a monitor and somewhere to charge the phone. Pair it with a comfortable chair that you’ve tried before buying to ensure it will provide the best support for your back, neck and arms.

Smart storage is an essential. Organised chaos is an oxymoron, and time can be wasted searching for things you need under piles of stuff that is far better sorted and put away. Whether it is in drawers or in files neatly arranged on open shelves, clear the clutter and clear your mind to allow you to concentrate.

Having a home office is the perfect opportunity to decorate it to suit you. Some people like a calm, organised space with neutral or earthy tones. Greens and blues are restful, which is good if you are looking to reduce stress, Light or white colours can create an environment free of distraction. Or you may respond to colour and vibrancy, and a palette that offers plenty of visual stimulation to enhance your creativity. Whatever your personal choice, try and find room for some plants. They not only add life to a space and offer the opportunity for a moment’s break as you tend to them, they are nature’s air purifier, making us feel less lethargic and even reducing allergy symptoms.

About Velux

To learn more about how to transform your home by bringing in more natural light, speak to a VELUX daylight advisor. They can guide you through the process of finding the perfect skylight or roof window to suit your room and your needs. You’ll
be amazed at the difference! Find plenty of inspiration at transformingspaces.velux.co.uk. You can also follow @VELUX on Instagram and on Facebook.

We love making our homes into calm spaces for ourselves, but we often wonder what kind of impression they give off to guests and even virtual visitors. While you're sweating about a dusty corner or not-so-plush pillow, your friends might be fixated on something else completely. Luckily, a study done last year revealed three things in our homes that are likely to catch guests' eyes.

So what are the top things guests notice? When you're trying to impress friends and family, we'd imagine it would be things like the smell of our hand soap, the plushness of our bath towels, and how comfy the sofa is. In actual fact, it's not what you'd expect at all...

The top three things guests notice

The research conducted by Confused.com used eye-tracking technology to locate areas of different rooms that hold people's gaze for the longest time when they are visiting. No more guessing needed — here's what your friends and fam pick up on the most.

1. Office chairs

In the top spot were office chairs. This might not come as a surprise to the WFH people and freelancers out there, but for others, it's not so obvious. During the pandemic, a lot of us invested in functional office items like chairs, desks, and laptop stands. Therefore, our sitting setup can be subject to looks with people likely comparing everyone else's chairs to our uncomfy choices now — especially via video calls.

Office chairs aren't always the most beautiful pieces of furniture. However, a proper office chair with lumbar support is much better than working from the sofa or your bed. And now, there are some seriously well-designed office chairs from Amazon and other stores that are pretty cute.

If it's time to take the plunge, investing in a good chair can be revolutionary for your back and your desk's aesthetic, too, of course.  Guests will be admiring it rather than noticing an ugly black chair tucked in the corner.

2. Kitchen floors

Next up, we have kitchen floors. How are yours looking? With 323 views and maintaining the gaze of visitors for 2,987 milliseconds, kitchen flooring is the second most viewed element in the home, according to this study.

Whatever yours looks like, keeping it freshly swept and mopped when guests come over goes a long way. If you're planning a kitchen renovation, it could be worth spending a bit more time making sure you're 100% happy with your decision. But if like the majority of us you rent, consider keeping the floors all around your home that bit cuter with area rugs or even peel-and-stick tiles. These are perfect for covering up ugly flooring and backsplashes or countertops. 

3. Throws on a bed

It turns out the throw blanket on your bed can also get a lot of attention from guests. Throws were the fourth most-noticed element recorded in the study, after children's beds or cots. 

The best throws bring all the cozy vibes, as well as provide extra warmth on chilly nights. Layering a blanket at the bottom of your bed is a great way to add more texture to your bedroom and make the bed look more luxurious. But we're very into throws on the couch, too.

Since the pandemic began about 18-months ago, the amount of people working from home has more than doubled in the UK. While some of us are slowly returning to offices, many of us have decided to continue working from the comfort of home, even if it is just a day or two a week.

So in this new world, where we take virtual business meetings from our kitchen tables (or the couch on occasion) and chat to our colleagues virtually, it’s more important than ever to make sure our working environment is supporting us in the best way possible.

Whether you commute to your spare room-come-office every day, work at a desk tucked into a corner of the living room or if you went all out to create a garden office space, ensuring your setup is stylish and functional is key for enhanced productivity and motivation. 

From decorating your surroundings to ensuring the sound quality of your working area is on point, this is how you can make the most of whatever space you have.

1. Declutter your work area

A tidy space allows for a tidy mind. And, by clearing your work area of bric-a-brac before you sit down, you’ll be amazed at how much headspace you will get back. Do this first to see how else you can make improvements to your WFH setup.

2. Think about the backdrop

Sure, some of us play around with Zoom background options but we can't always pretend we're in Tahiti. Make life easier day-to-day by styling the wall or open plan space behind you so that you can create a view that's more than presentable.

It goes without saying that no one wants to see dirty laundry in the background of a call and while the odd kids' toy is perfectly acceptable, why not distract from the clutter of daily life with a gallery wall or houseplant display? Stylish, inspiring and sure to frame your meeting perfectly.

And, if you like a minimal look, you could upgrade your walls with beautifully designed wall panelling like Akupanels. Created by WoodUpp – the makers of The Original Slat Wall Panels – these come complete with good looks and remarkable sound absorbing functionalities too.

3. Focus on acoustics 

Most homes aren’t built to be offices too, so you may never have noticed an echoey or even muffled sound in your rooms until you started spending much more time there.

And that din isn't something you particularly want to get used to, especially if you take client calls all day. Improving the acoustics of your space is within reach and it doesn't have to be expensive either. Sound absorbing acoustic panels like Akupanels can make a huge difference to the overall sound quality in a space.

You only need to install a couple to significantly reduce reverberation throughout the room and, they will give a Scandi-esque finish to your desk space too.

Akupanels measure 2400 x 600 mm and they are made up of 11m deep and 27 mm wide slats, with a 13mm gap between them. The slats themselves come mounted on a base of acoustic felt that's made out of recycled plastic bottles. So you can nod to sustainability, style and good sound all in one.

4. Make it personal

It’s important that you like the space that you’re working in, otherwise you won’t enjoy ‘going’ to work everyday. To reinvigorate your space, you want to make it feel unique but also comfortable and curated for only you. It is your house after all...

Keeping family photos, as you would do in a regular office, perhaps your favourite mug and plant(s) close by will remind you that this space is carved out for you to work to the best of your capabilities.

5. Purify the air, naturally 

There has been a lot of buzz around 'air purifying' in the past few months. And, to help cleanse the air around you naturally, you can look to indoor plants. Not only can they reduce carbon dioxide levels, but they will also help regulate humidity and reduce pollutants in your home working environment. Pick up a Peace Lily, Fern or Spider Plant to enjoy their natural beauty and breathe a little easier.

6. Colour play 

Green is a good start to bring a more calming ambiance into your working from home environment but, you can add colour and even contour if you may your surroundings with a feature like Akupanels on your wall.

Whether you want a relaxing or energising surround, Akupanels are available in different wood finishes plus felt colours so that you can select a look that suits your needs and your space perfectly. Choose Classic Oak with black felt for a striking Scandi decor scheme or, go for something a little warmer like Walnut. 

If you like to keep your space fresh, modern and maybe a little eclectic, you could  choose white, copper or even blue oxide for a pop of design interest that is sure to get your colleagues talking.

7. Focus on function

From how your WFH space looks to how you use it, having your acoustics and WFH interior design sorted is one thing but, if you currently work hunched over a laptop, it's no good. 

Invest in a supportive desk chair to keep your body and posture in check, while you should also consider a monitor screen which sits level with your eye-line and use a separate mouse and keyboard.

Turning a home office into a space that you really love will not only help your productivity and motivation levels, but it will be a fun creative project too that's sure to add a little more personality to the rest of your home's space too.

To level-up your office space with Scandinavian style and acoustic control, get in touch with WoodUpp today via pm@woodupp.co.uk and be sure to visit www.woodupp.co.uk.

Now many of us are working from home, finding somewhere peaceful to work can be a challenge. However, one smart DIY-er revealed how you could fake your way to a secret home office with a smart IKEA Billy bookcase hack. 

Designer Carolina Malmberg's stylish IKEA hack shows how simply the iconic bookcase has to be used to fake a built-in wall and hide your working from the home zone.

Room dividers come in all shapes and forms, but this is one of the best we've seen using something that may already stand in your home. However, like with all hacks, it's knowing how to use it that is the key. Here's what you need to know about Carolina's ingenious DIY project. 

Secret home office IKEA BILLY bookcase hack 

Carolina transformed her open-plan living space into a separate living room and office, using the iconic BILLY bookcase as her temporary wall. 

In a video, Carolina (@carmaliv) shared the makeover process – so you can mirror her living room idea in your home. This is the WFH space solution you never knew you needed until now. 

Before

Carolina began by picking up three 80cm wide BILLY’s, along with one 40cm wide BILLY. She then assembled the units and set them in place – facing outwards – with the backs creating the walls of the office space. 

Carolina then trimmed the thin boards at the back of the units to create a ‘window’ which makes the space feel notably more light and airy. She then picked up some wide-height extension units and assembled them without the backer board for additional ventilation.

Plus, as half of the wall faced into her office, Carolina designed a gap in the first unit to house her printer and storage – and it’s a home office idea we’re rushing to replicate. 

After

To conclude the hack, Carolina closed the back of the BILLY with MDF boards before wallpapering the space. 

She then added trim to all the exposed edges and molding at the top. Finally, she finished the wall with baseboards to give the sense of a bespoke ‘built-in look.’

To crown the units – and make her new rooms feel even lighter – Carolina added IKEA's LOTS mirrors that reflected the rooms’ natural light and made the space feel bigger and brighter. 

The BILLY has interrupted the previously open-plan space to create two private rooms that offer a secret office –and a separate sanctuary when the work is complete.  

If your teen is still trying to do their coursework on the kitchen island or on the family dining table, it's time to consider some teenage desk ideas. 

As schools, colleges and universities explore virtual learning, a proper table and chair, suited to their age and height is an essential bit of apparatus for their learning.

From 'smart' teenage desk ideas to ladder desks that make use of vertical space, give your teen the room they deserve to do homework or mindful doodling!

It's time to pass the test of providing a study solution to give your son or daughter. A stylish and functional desk in one of these teenage bedroom ideas will give them the best chances of buckling down. But, don't just recycle an off-the-shelf idea you've seen in your adult workplace.

Teenage desk ideas for successful studying

1. Limit the risk of 0% battery with a smart desk

If you've ever seen your teen scramble for a laptop charger, you'll know the sheer panic in their eyes. Hours of reading, research and creativity, only to be lost by a lack of power going to their electronic device.

So instead of calculating how long they've got left to save down their work, why not invest in a smart desk? Just like Amazon Alexa and Google Nest devices, smart home technology aims to make our lives easier. And this desk is no exception.

Today's features include premium Bluetooth speakers, wireless charging technology and a USB charging point. Toughened glass work surfaces are perfect for taking notes with a whiteboard pen. Simply let your teen wipe off their revision notes (or doodles) after use.

Luck ends there however, as it can't do their homework for them. What a shame.

2. Integrate plants into a teenage desk design

So you've got your ideal teenage desk idea - but now what? When it comes to accessorizing the space on and around the study table, you'll want to be creative and sympathetic to the environment.

Sure a pen pot and some sticky notes are practical, but have you thought about adding a few great indoor plants? 

Asides from jumping on the biophilic trend, our green buddies can help reduce exam stress, increase productivity and clean the air. We're sure you might agree that this'll especially beneficial in a boys room idea.

3. Add a storage idea next to the desk for easy access

Looking for a sweet girls bedroom idea that's full of space for stationery and sewing materials for a budding fashion or interior designer?

Asides for the actual teenage desk idea, you'll want to think of other ways to amplify her storage opportunities. A cute bedroom cabinet can de-clutter and organize her space effectively. Placed next to her desk, it will mean that the table isn't littered with lots of little bits and bobs.

Tidy desk, tidy mind as the old adage goes, so maintain her concentration by keeping a sparse but stylish space.

4. Incorporate texture into your teenage desk design

By incorporating texture into your teenager's bedroom, you can create a comfortable interior scheme for them to socialize, relax or study in.

This cream swivel boucle chair with its super-comfy material will look perfect in a cozy bedroom idea. Coupled with a soft rug or flooring design, your teen won't want to venture out of their room. Bonus.

To style, add shades found in nature. We love this olive vase filled with on-trend Pampas grass to complement the rattan feature on the desk drawer. And, while Bieber may have got his peaches back in Georgia, you won't have to travel far for orchard-inspired hues.

This pastel orange bedroom paint color adds sunset vibes to this space. Shop Monticello Peach from Benjamin Moore for a similar shade.

5. Design a teenage desk idea underneath the stairs

If your teenager has inherited a small kids bedroom, it's unlikely that they'll want to be trapped inside this box room to complete their after-school activities.

But, if your under-the-stairs space is not being used as a powder room or extra storage space, then use it in a way that'll enrich your teen's education experience.

If you're building from the wall out, you may wish to consider a built-in design. If not, modular desks and shelving ideas will allow you to be flexible once your teen has flown the nest. Better still, keep this solution for yourself. 

It'll come in handy as a remote working spot or just a purposeful place to file your tax returns.

6. Use an awkward wall or alcove for a study corner

Alcoves and awkward walls can be a real pain in the butt when it comes to living room ideas. But, styled correctly, you can transform this wall recess into tidy teenage desk design.

Opt for a slimline desk design to ensure that you use the snug space to your advantage. Lighting can be an issue in this area, so invest in slender task lighting solutions to reduce eye strain.

Sara Dawson, founder of The House Office, says: 'A corner desk allows home workers to make the most of the tightest of nooks, without taking up precious floor space and dominating the rest of the room – something which is hugely important if you’re working from your living space or bedroom.'

Explore overhead storage solutions to keep the floor space neat. For example, knowing how to hang a shelf with brackets is a life skill we wish we'd learned much sooner!

7. Add a footstool for a comfy teenage desk design

When Canadian musician Drake penned the lyrics: 'I only love my bed and my mom, I'm sorry', we could definitely relate. While not a smart solution for studying, most teenagers will lay on their bed to read over their lecture notes.

Aside from looking a little lazy, studying in bed is not ergonomically ideal. Bad for posture; pillows and cushions provide a poor solution for your teen's back. What's more, multiple papers spread over your son or daughter's duvet will lead to decreased productivity. 

Rather than forcing him or her to take up a teenage bedroom desk idea, a footstool can provide a comfy compromise. Adopting a semi-reclining position can keep both parties happy and gives them outdoor stimulus if the desk is positioned near a bedroom window design.

8. Add interest to a plain desk with a statement rug

Sometimes less is more when it comes to a teenage bedroom desk idea. This is especially the case in a minimalist or modern bedroom design. 

But, if you want to add some fun to your teen's bedroom decor, then a statement rug is a simple and budget bedroom idea to invigorate a bland space.

This cow-print rug will add expensive vibes to a boring black and white bedroom idea. But whatever design you decide on, add a rug gripper underneath. This will ensure the rug doesn't get damaged, the chair doesn't scrape or mark wooden flooring, and your child doesn't trip up.

9. Elevate the space with a desk ladder idea

The Cofield desk from Wayfair is a cleverly designed desk that brings out the best in a Scandinavian bedroom design. Made from powder coated steel and mango wood, it blends a somewhat industrial idea with classic charm.

A sturdy yet compact ladder desk provides a functional drawer and some serious shelving and most importantly, space to move around their room.

We'd style this teenage desk idea with faux climbing plants or maybe even some fairy lights for evening study sessions.

Nadia McCowan-Hill, resident style advisor for Wayfair says: 'Ladder desks are a trendy option that are great for adding much needed storage into a small room, making it as easy as possible for your teenager to keep a mindful, clutter-free space.' 

10. Create a comprehensive office with an armoire

Got a teen whose a bit of a Francophile? Then say Bonjour to this French bedroom idea.  An all-encompassing teenage desk design, an armoire can also fit seamlessly into a rustic bedroom design.

Commonly known as a desk or computer cupboard, treat it as you would a wardrobe storage idea. Generously proportioned, it is a space-efficient design that takes care of tucking away your teen's laptop and monitor with pull-out shelving.

In line with a clean aesthetic, this design by The Dormy House has holes at the back to hide unsightly wires and plugs. Double-hinged cupboard doors ensure that your teenager can hang notes and noticeboards for space-savvy study nook. 

Once your child has no need for this cabinet, store crockery and dining essentials for a country kitchen idea that has a farmhouse feel. If placed in a communal area of the house these doors can be closed for when you're entertaining guests.

11. Add positive thoughts with a slogan wall design

2020 was a tough year for teenage kids and adults alike. Social restrictions, not being able to see our family and a fair share of TV reruns. Not seeing our loved ones in real life may have contributed to a decline in mental health.

And so it was and still is important to be surrounded by positive messages and affirmations. This wall art idea by Wallsauce is supplied as a printed wallpaper design. 

What makes it special is that the made-to-measure mural is bespoke to your older kids room idea, so is just as individual as they are.

McCowan Hill confirms this by saying: 'Don’t neglect the area around your teens desk. Thought-provoking artwork is wonderful for drumming up ideas.'

'Go for typographic designs with motivating slogans, perfect for focusing the mind or bold abstract prints are another great option for boosting creativity.'

How can I make a desk look good?

'Exams are an inevitable part of every teenager's life so a dedicated study area will always come in useful. Space saving options such as floating desks are ideal as handy shelving day to day, which can then convert into a space for homework or creative pursuits,' says McCowan-Hill.

'Be sure to choose a desk in keeping with your teens youthful space. Opt for fun, colorful products in  mood-boosting shades such as yellow, perfect for adding a feel-good fix to a tired space.'

'A neutral color palette of navy blue and grey will never date, adding grown up style throughout their teenage years. Style up a desk area with bold geometrics and faux greenery, to suit even the most novice of houseplant owners!'

'The area under your staircase is a great opportunity for fitted storage, and there are many design options for this space,' says Simon Tcherniak, senior furniture designer at Neville Johnson.

'From a compact home office with desk space to compartments for storing books, as well as open and closed shelving, fitted furniture is a great way of creating a multi-functional space.'

What is the best posture for sitting at a desk?

According to one expert, it's not just the colors and interior scheme you need to focus on. Chair design and movement can also be critical elements of a healthy study space.

Lucinda Newbound, partner at ergonomics company, Back in Action says:

'We’ve seen workers sitting in unsuitable dining chairs at the kitchen table, propped up on a stool at a kitchen island or breakfast bar and even working from bed and bath.'

'Any of these could lead to back pain, bad posture, sore neck and shoulders and more.'

'We wouldn’t wear clothes that stop us from being able to move, so why do we spend eight hours a day sitting on furniture that does just that?'

'If you’ve never sat on a chair that moves with you, rather than stopping your natural movement, it’s probably not something you’ve ever thought about… but it feels like freedom.'

'We live in the body of a hunter-gatherer, yet spend most of each day sitting still. Not surprisingly, we experience reduced circulation. In particular our blood and lymph systems work more slowly.'

'This is why movement is so vitally important.'

Setting up a beautiful WFH space shouldn't cost the earth. Thankfully, there are some seriously stylish yet budget home office ideas around right now to inspire your own setup. 

Sure, office days were fun but were they the most stylish places? Not always. So, it's time to find yourself a spot at home where you can WFH a little more permanently and which you can decorate to your heart's content.

Whether you want your space to blend in seamlessly with the rest of your home's decor or if you want it to pop and be more of a work of art, you can bring the most brilliant home office ideas to life even on a shoestring. It's all about nodding to DIY and getting out of your pjs... 

Budget home office ideas

It’s time to get creative, and anything is possible with a little inspiration. Plus, you don’t need a professional to create a space that ticks all the boxes either...

1. Make room in your attic

Converted attic spaces make ideal offices, they’re tucked out of the way so you can get that much needed peace and quiet for your zoom meetings. You don’t need lots of space, a simple desk, chair and lamp will suffice – check out Ikea’s LAGKAPTEN/MITTBACK desk. 

To give it a splash of color paint one wall - Crown’s Peekaboo can be seen here, and keep the rest white, lofts can be a little dark so grab the light where you can. 

2. Paint a mini mural

The best wall painting ideas boast some of the most creative and budget-friendly ways to upgrade a bland space, fast. 

‘No obvious spot for a desk? All you need to create your personal workspace is a section of wall, your two favourite Farrow & Ball colours in Modern Emulsion, and a steady hand,’ says Charlotte Cosby, Head of Creative at Farrow & Ball.

‘This on-trend arch marks the boundary between work and play in the most attractive way, creating a spot you’ll love to sit down to, we’ve used Light Gray and Sulking Room Pink.

If you’re feeling bold, you can even continue the shape onto the floor in Modern Eggshell.’

3. Create your own gallery wall

Sitting in front of a screen all day can be made alot nicer if you create something fabulous in front of your desk. One of our top tips for home office decorating is to create a gallery wall – it's a favorite of ours and a bare office wall lends itself to this kind of design feature. 

Choose a variety of frame sizes and fill them with photos of days out and family - when that deadline is nearing you can look at them to give you that extra bit of energy and inspiration.

4. Don’t panic when space is tight

There are always options – even if they’re super slimline. It’s about paring back and only using what you really need, which essentially is space for a laptop, a notebook and a pen or two. 

This neat shelving idea is really clever, and you can adapt it to what you need. Look out for modular systems, they really are your friend when space is tight and you can primp them up with plants to make them look extra stylish. 

5. Alcoves and ‘odd’ spaces are your friend

It can be hard to come up with budget home office ideas but look around your home for existing areas to see what can work. That awkward corner that’s essentially a dead space? It will be perfect for a desk and if it’s by a window then all the better. 

Alcoves on each side of a fireplace are also a great option and most have shelves fitted anyway, so all you need to do is add a desk and a stool and away you go! 

6. Go vintage hunting for a desk

A great DIY home office decorating idea when you’re on a budget is to scour flea markets and car boots for vintage pieces of furniture. Give them a clean up and then try your hand at painting furniture yourself. Go for the same color or choose a new different look like multi-colored drawers. You can do the same with a stool too or pick up a cute swivel chair for next to nothing and reupholster the seat. 

7. Zone off an area for your home office

Another great budget home office decorating idea is to zone off your space. Often we have to share our home office spaces with the rest of the family – in the living room or bedroom for example if there’s no spare room, so coming up with an idea to cordon off the space so you get a little peace is essential. 

A screen is a great option for this, it doesn’t need to be solid, it’s just to create a gentle barrier that gives you a corner to yourself. 

8. Choose easy care flooring that’s super stylish

‘With so many of us now working from home on a permanent basis, it’s inevitable that our floors will be subject to a higher level of wear and tear than before,’ explains Inga Morris-Blincoe, General Manager at Lifestyle  Floors.

‘So whether you are looking to create a home office in a dedicated room or to integrate one into an existing space such as living room or bedroom, it’s a good idea to consider which flooring will make an affordable hardwearing choice. One suggestion would be vinyl, this versatile flooring is available in different thicknesses and comes in a wide variety of patterns and finishes including those that replicate real wood. It’s particularly budget friendly, is straightforward and quick to lay onto a clean, smooth, dry subfloor.’ 

9. Be resourceful with scraps of wallpaper

So you’ve got a space for your DIY home office, now you want to make it your own by coming up with a cool wall design right? We all have offcuts of wallpaper and paint samples lying about, so now’s the time to dig them out and create something wonderful with them. 

Lay them out on the floor into a patchwork type design, then paste them to the wall and you’ll have your own gorgeous wallpaper that’s unique to your home.

10. Go open plan when space is at a premium

When you have no choice but to take up a wall space in your living room then choose a multi-faceted desk system that will fulfil your needs. Habitat’s Turner desk will tick all of your boxes.

The more shelving you can opt for the better and go tall as it will take up less space if you go for height over width. This design is streamlined and stylish, it’s visually appealing and not ‘heavy’ on the eye, accessorize with bright stationery and a chair to match your scheme. 

11. Make your home office space as personal as possible

‘With more and more people opting for flexible working, it’s important to have not only a functional office but also a stylish one that inspires you to do the best work. Working from home gives you the opportunity to add a personal touch to your workspace,’ explains Marketa Rypacek, Managing Director at Industville.

‘Use art that inspires you, wallpaper that matches your scheme or add plants to create a greener area. Light plays a vital role in home offices; a well-lit, nicely designed office is needed to boost creativity and motivation!  There are some amazing lighting options available so you don’t need to break the bank creating a professional at home work space.’

12. Use what you have at home

An unused roll of wallpaper and half a tub of paint is enough to give you a stylish accent wall backdrop for your desk and it’s an innovative way to save cash too. Paint the bottom half to the dado rail and wallpaper above. 

This pretty Wrest Trail wallpaper in pink plaster is perfectly matched to the Perennial Grey paint, whatever you have left over, choose a paint color that matches your wallpaper for a cohesive look.

13. Can’t decide on a color scheme? Go for monochrome

Simple is often best and when you’re looking for budget home office ideas wanting to use multiple colors can cost more. Classic black and white will is easy to pull together - white paint is a budget buy and will give you a minimalist look that’s light and airy to boot. 

You can even paint accessories in black and white too – cheap frames are easily revamped and you could create a chalkboard for writing on also.

14. Desk organisation is key 

You’ve found your corner and have your desk space set up, the next thing is to get super organised. Clutter is not your friend when space is tight and organisation is your friend. We love Ikea's desk tidy organisers – essential home office storage buys for those on a budget. 

Shown here is their ELLOVEN monitor stand with a drawer that gives you perfect storage and raises your computer to the right height making it a great ergonomic choice.

15. It’s all in the details

Utilize your wall space by hanging up some oh-so-useful pinboards and little shelves. They’re ideal for postcards, invites and inspiring photos and you can hang your favorite keepsakes on them too. 

Shelves are great for small vases, pen and pencil pots and small notebooks, basically, you can never have too much storage, but when space and budget is tight you need to keep it more contained.

How can I make an inexpensive home office?

It can be challenging to create a budget home office as there are so many factors to consider. But, done well and a home office can give you the best of both worlds. Letting you work from home and spend more time with your family too. 

The key is to try to create your own space – if you have a spare room then great, that’s the best option. But if you don’t then make the most of the room you have - a wall space is all you need, plus a desk and chair of course. You can pick up furniture from thrift stores and flea markets, then use up old tubs of paint to fancy them up, it's the perfect opportunity to be more inventive.

If you're one for stacking books by your bedside table or keeping them in the corner of your lounge, you'll know that things can start to look messy quite quickly. With so many beautiful home library ideas around, you'd be a fool to keep that clutter right? Now it's easy to create an enviable reading space for the whole family and any visiting bookworms to enjoy.

Team yours with your favorite home office ideas for a stylish and seamless finish on all fronts. Whether you're into hardbacks, comics or magazines like RealHomes (of course), a good library will deliver on aesthetics and functionality.

Home library ideas to house your books and magazines

1. Zone a living room space with a colorful home library

'Zonal living was the driving force behind the design for this bookshelf.' says Rachael Fell, Habitat furniture buying manager.

'Having noted the demand for our screen dividers last season, we wanted to take this partitioning idea further with a more permanent solution to carve out space at home.'

'This flexible, extendable mechanic within the open shelving allows the sectioned space to feel fluid and open, and the shelves themselves can be personalized with decorative art and accessories.'

Colleague Andrew Tanner, design manager adds: 'Color plays such an important part in our homes as it allows us to create style and increase our mood, our emotions and our feelings.

'After spending more time indoors than ever before, we've turned to uplifting palettes, bold and vibrant hues that evoke the senses. We've paired these with sculptural and playful forms to accentuate movement and explore shapes that ultimately make you smile.'

2. Create interest around the stairs with a home library

Bedtime can be a battle for adults and children alike. From kids that try and fight off sleeping, to grown-ups who can't keep off their smartphones, getting a few hours kip can be a challenge.

So why not make going to bed exciting with by placing your home library ideas near a staircase? By doing so, you can choose a book to take upstairs. Books are much better than electronic devices which emit blue light and can disrupt your circadian rhythm, or sleep cycle.

And just like white living room ideas, choosing a light color creates the illusion of a larger space.

3. Use a four-poster bed for a studio apartment library 

Unless you've a studio apartment, a bed in a living room can sound a bit bonkers – especially if its primary purpose is not for sleeping!

Home library ideas are great for open plan layouts, and this four poster bed with shelves by Cuckooland is an idyllic set up that functions as a sofa bed and bookcase for your literature.

4. Jazz up a home library with a wild flooring design

'Typically quiet and relaxing, home libraries represent a calming space to unwind with a must read.', says Jemma Dayman, buyer, Carpetright

'The styling of your library can be the difference between a cold study space and a room you love to while away the hours in.If you enjoy being bold with your design, a library is the perfect place to get imaginative and introduce pattern and color.'

'Even the slightest of prints can lift the feel of a room and add interest and personality to your scheme. Opting for an animal print in a neutral tone creates a subtle yet distinctive look that can be built upon or toned down with plain accessories, so you won’t be distracted during a strong reading session.'

'When using animal print on a larger area in the room, such as flooring, try to keep furniture and free walls plain to ensure the look isn’t too overpowering and your room remains a place you enjoy spending time in.'

5. Incorporate a home library in your guest bedroom

Guests come and go, but a good book is for life – so you'll want a permanent spot for pages and pages of entertainment.

This arched pink shelving idea is perfect for storing books alongside smaller trinkets and accessories. Impressive in a spare bedroom or as part of a feminine bedroom too!

6. Go dark and dramatic with a black bookcase design

If you're obsessed with collecting thrillers or crime novels, you'll want a dark and dramatic environment to match.

As well as opting for a black wall decor ideas, you might also want to consider a dark bookcase too. Keep things classic with a good leather armchair and a patterned rug to break up the black and brown and stop the scheme from looking too like a scene from the latest narrative you're following.

7. Regal looks with smart navy and purple

'Often associated with royalty and tradition, purple is perfect for adding drama and character to a room.', says Helen Shaw, UK marketing director, Benjamin Moore.

'Saturated shades envelop a room, so consider introducing the rich hue into a space that benefits from natural light to create an intriguing interplay of light and dark. Look to incorporate purple with grey undertones which deepens with intensity as the day draws to a close, perfect for creating an ambient feeling in libraries.'

'To add further depth and texture, pair with dark woods, rich velvets and metallic embellishments which are best displayed in dark, characterful rooms. To create a contemporary contrast and a sense of calm using aubergine hues, consider layering various tones for a monochromatic scheme in a room'.

8. Opt for a cozy home library by the fireplace

A good book is one thing, but your experience can be enhanced by your environment too. In summer, you may want to laze by the pool, but come winter and you'll be pining for a perfect spot by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa.

As well as a cozy nook, you'll want a place to display your prized possessions. This alcove idea makes the most of an awkward space while making sure that your books are given the space they truly deserve.

9. Create a modern library in your living room

In a time-poor world where we're constantly multitasking in front of the TV, a home library idea in the living room makes perfect sense.

That's because this space is ideal for multifunctional living. So while the kids are watching their favorite movie, and your husband enjoying a late-night snack, you can collect a book from behind the sofa and still be part of all the family action.

Soft as a marshmallow, this sofa with teddy-like material is the ultimate homage to comfort, appealing to the coziness and warmth of the communal space.

Small yet effective, the mirror idea on the wall reflects off the adjacent garden to cleverly create an outside-in illusion.

10. Turn your orangery into a library with lots of light

If you want to create a home library that's bursting full of light, and can offer a quiet, tranquil space away from conventional eating and communal spaces – consider orangery design ideas.

Situating yourself in this location will allow you to hear the birds sing and the rain pour – the perfect soundtrack to accompany your reading list.

11. Create a micro library in a bedroom corner

Whether you want to inspire romantic dreams or cram in a bit of after-hours studying, home library ideas in the bedroom are superior to scanning your smartphone.

Blue bedroom decor induces a sense of calm and tranquility. This cozy book corner further emphasizes the atmosphere that IKEA have tried to create.

The coordinated paisley print chair and duvet add style to your bedtime story space, and the high-pile rug a tactile touch underfoot.

12. Inject industrial charm into a library with wood

Exuding a sense of serenity with contrasting elements and quiet layers, this  apartment overlooking Sydney Harbor has been exquisitely resurfaced with Havwoods’ barn rustic floorboards, creating a contemporary home with an industrial chic home library idea.

A calming palette of warm greys, raw steel and natural stone have been used throughout, with expansive steel shelving units to complement the scheme.

Is it just us, or is this scheme giving you Ollivanders wand shop vibes from Harry Potter?

13. Fake a library full of books with printed wallpaper

If you are just beginning to build up your book collection, or want to create the illusion of owning lots of books - fake it until you make it!

This printed wallpaper by Mind the Gap can help disguise the feeling of a bare home library idea.

14. Create a mid-century vibe with earthy hues

If you want to create an environment that evokes feelings of nostalgia, why not create a retro home library idea that's inspired by the sixties and seventies. The good news is, you won't need to invest in expensive vintage books or furniture. This scheme is all about the color palette.

We love the creative spirit that this space is transmitting with its unique rug and the combination of two armchairs upholstered in Illuminating Yellow - one of Pantone's Color Of The Year in 2021!

Respecting the eco-conscious thinking of these eras, a built-in bookcase can be constructed using reclaimed or recycled wood. This execution is brought to present times with a lighting scheme that frames the room.

15. Create a bookshelf that you can see at eye level

There's nothing more nostalgic than cozying up with a parent or grandparent to read a story as the sun goes down. But as we all wind down to bedtime, reaching a book can be a bit of a pain - especially if you have to reach for it on your tiptoes.

Ergonomically speaking, book storage ideas that are at eye level make grabbing a good book that little bit easier. It's particularly perfect for older or less-abled people or children who can't reach taller spaces.

How can I build a library in my home?

'Our homes are spaces to celebrate individuality and find joy in cultivating our own collections. Creating an at home library filled with all your favorite novels and trinkets is the perfect way to both personalize and refine your space.', says Nadia McCowan Hill, Wayfair’s Resident Style Advisor.

'When building your library consider the size of your current book collection and how far you intend on growing it.

'Choose a sturdy bookcase with lots of separate compartments and don’t be put off by the thought of empty shelves, these blank spaces are the perfect spots to showcase unique decor items or fill with an abundance of greenery.'

'Don’t be afraid to add color, floating shelves in neon hues provide a stunning, standout backdrop for your favorite novels or even consider adding some quirky bookends to help separate your genres.'

What should every home library have?

'Whether you are just dedicating a corner of your home or a whole room to your library make sure not to neglect the surrounding space.', says McCowan Hill.

'Place fun graphic art and vintage prints around your bookcase and incorporate plush seating options, perfect for lying back and getting lost in the world of fiction.'

'A stylish floor lamp is a must when building out your library, opt for a large, arched model with a soothing glow to help you enjoy your favorite tales on even the gloomiest of days.'

Getting your home office storage spot on is key to creating a space that's functional, inspiring and that will help support your productivity when working from home.

Whether you've a whole room, a corner in the living room or nook in the hallway, ensuring you have the best storage solutions to keep this space tidy and well organised is crucial.

After all, bringing the best home office ideas to life wouldn't be possible without good storage behind it to hide daily clutter...

1. Invest in a dual-purpose coffee table

Remote working has unearthed ways to work in different rooms in the home. While the bedroom offers a quiet space, the temptation to slide under the covers may be too risky for some.

Instead lounge areas probably provide the closest thing to a 'normal' working environment. And, while not great for your posture, coffee tables are commonly used for laptop perching and coffee nestling.

This light oak effect table with grey metal legs from Next features a cool lift up storage section transforming into a desk or dining surface. So if you're looking for a multipurpose home office storage idea that suits multifunctional living - we've got you!

2. Go Art Deco and use a drinks trolley in your office

TGIF! OK, so maybe you're not reading this on the last working day of the week, but you can still inject some fun into your home office storage ideas.

Used more commonly to serve guests in style, the humble drinks trolley is a glamorous way to display everything from stationary to folders and more.

Asides from the practical additions, adding a statement vase or some clayware will make your makeshift office space look expensive.

And, after hours or on weekends, it can return to its original purpose. 

3. Keep your desk tidy by using wall space

Working with a tiny workspace under the stairs or using an alcove? Keep clutter at bay by making use of wall decor. Think wire boards, fairy lights to hang things off, and of course, some floating shelves.

4. Create a cool co-working space with locker storage

From the pink swivel chair, to the plush and cozy corner, rattan lampshade and textured rugs – we'd be tempted to work all hours. But the stand out feature here is the storage locker. To recreate this look, simply stack IKEA's HÄLLAN cabinets and place the larger ones on legs. The pegboard, floating shelves and baskets offer extra up solutions to keep things clean and tidy.

Each member of the family can then personalize their container as they see fit with photographs, post-it notes or a spray paint design.

5. Invest in a desk designed for tiny spaces

If a recent change in working from home had left you in a panic trying to find an appropriate space to work and store your laptop – you are not alone.

This pull-down home office storage desk from John Lewis and Partner's new Anyday range allows you to work and pack away your gear efficiently at the end of your shift. With internal shelves for storage and display, your weekends won't be wasted trying to nail extra shelving ideas into the wall.

6. Use magazine files to organize paperwork properly