Transforming Your Home Office: Make It Work For You
If you're like many of us, your home office has become more important than ever. Whether you're working from home full-time, managing household tasks, or pursuing part-time creative passions, having a space that's both functional and beautiful can make all the difference in your productivity and wellbeing.
Today I'm sharing my top tips for creating a home office that not only works well functionally but feels like a natural extension of your home—a place you actually want to spend time in. Let's transform that neglected corner or spare room into a workspace that energizes and inspires you!
Start with the Foundation: Ergonomic Furniture
Your body will thank you for investing in proper ergonomic furniture. Trust me, this isn't where you want to cut corners!
The Perfect Desk: Look for a spacious desk with storage drawers to keep supplies organized and your surface clutter-free. The height is crucial—it should allow your arms to rest comfortably at a 90-degree angle when typing. My pro tip: measure the length of your legs and make sure there's comfortable clearance for them under the desk. Nothing's worse than bumping your knees every time you scoot in!
A Chair Worth Sitting In: A comfortable, high-back rolling chair isn't just a luxury—it's essential. Look for one with adjustable height, lumbar support, and armrests that can be positioned to support your elbows while typing. Remember, you'll be spending hours in this chair, so it should feel like a gentle hug for your back, not a torture device!
If You Have the Space, Add Lounge Furniture: Incorporating a lounge chair, small sofa, or even a cushioned bench into your office can completely change how the space feels. It creates a designated spot for reading, brainstorming, or taking a break that isn’t your desk—helping to separate focused work from moments of pause. Opt for a piece with structured, supportive cushions—comfortable, but not overly plush. You want it to feel inviting without crossing into family-room territory.
Designer: Avenue Design | Howland
Thoughtful Design Elements that Hit Different
Your office shouldn't feel sterile, it should reflect who you are and make you feel at home.
Place Your Desk in the Power Position: If possible, position your desk so you can see the door and have a solid wall behind you. This layout, often referred to as the "power position" in feng shui and workplace design, can help you feel grounded, secure, and more in control of your environment—subtle but impactful when it comes to focus, comfort and confidence.
Personalize Thoughtfully: Display a few meaningful items that inspire you—family photos, artwork, or objects collected during travels—but keep in mind what’s visible behind you on video calls. Your backdrop is part of your professional presence, so aim for a balance between personality and polish. A clean, curated shelf or a single piece of art can say a lot without overwhelming the frame.
Window Treatments: Beautiful drapery or blinds do double duty—they control light throughout the day and add softness to what can sometimes be a space full of hard surfaces and technology.
Designer: Studio McGee
Consider the Tech: Make Space for What Powers Your Workflow
Not every home office needs to be big—but it does need to support your tools.
Be Intentional with Your Monitor: Your screen is probably your most-used piece of tech, so give it some thought. A sleek, minimal monitor can elevate the look of your setup—especially in a shared or open-concept space. Consider wall-mounting it to free up desk space and keep things looking clean. If you’re working with just a laptop, a slim stand or docking station can help create that same intentional feel.
Start with Your Essentials: Whether you're working with a laptop and earbuds or a multi-monitor setup and a microphone, map out what tech you use daily. This helps determine how much surface space and storage you actually need—maybe it’s a desk with built-in cord management or a rolling cart that keeps gear nearby but mobile.
Power It Properly: Extension cords, surge protectors, and accessible outlets matter more than you think. Avoid trailing cables by mounting power strips under desks or using cord organizers. If you're investing in better lighting or a monitor arm, plan where they’ll plug in, too.
Designer: Elizabeth Metcalf Design
Lighting That Works For You, Not Against You
Lighting can make or break your work experience and is often overlooked when designing a home office.
Natural Light: Position your desk near a window if possible, but be mindful of screen glare. Natural light boosts mood and productivity, and provides a nice visual break when you look up from your computer.
Task Lighting: A sleek desk lamp that doesn't take up much real estate is essential for those focused work sessions. Look for adjustable options that direct light exactly where you need it without creating harsh shadows.
Ambient Lighting: Consider a floor lamp in the corner or wall sconces that create a warm glow. This layered approach to lighting allows you to adjust the mood throughout the day—brighter for high-focus tasks, softer for creative thinking or end-of-day wind-down. My pro tip: If you're lucky enough to have an office fireplace, lean into it. A gas insert or classic mantel with candles adds instant warmth and elegance, turning your workspace into a place that feels indulgent and inviting, not just functional.
Designer: Jake Arnold
Creating a home office that's both beautiful and functional isn't about following rigid rules—it's about understanding how you work best and designing a space that supports those needs while making you feel at home. Remember, the goal is a space where you can be productive and creative, but also one that makes you smile when you walk in each morning.
Here's to creating spaces that welcome us home, even when we're working!
Leave your Office Design related questions in the Comments and I will be happy to answer :)
