This weekend I shared several inspiration images for functional, livable spaces. Today I want to highlight one of my favorite functional rooms: my home office. This office is from my previous house, and although I haven’t fully finished my new office yet, I’m using many of the same ideas. The look may evolve, but the lessons I learned continue to guide how I work and create.
I featured this room in The Inspired Room book and often revisit these photos when planning new spaces. Below are a few practical tips I used when setting up my office that you can apply to a creative workspace or home office of your own.
1. Designate a dedicated space for inspiration, organization and creativity
Working from home means carving out a spot where you can focus and stay organized. Even a small corner in a bedroom can serve as a productive office. Having a clearly designated area signals to your brain that it’s time to work and helps keep household life separate from professional tasks.
2. Surround yourself with inspiration
Your environment affects your mood and productivity. Choose colors, textures and objects that motivate you. I hung inspiration boards above my desk and selected items that feel uplifting. When your workspace is thoughtfully arranged, it becomes easier to focus and enjoy the tasks at hand.
3. Use organizational systems you will actually use
Pretty storage is tempting, but it only helps if you use it. Test different systems until you find what works for your habits. If a particular method or container doesn’t get used, replace it with something simpler and more functional. Practical organization is the backbone of a functional office.
4. Make the space feel homey
Even though my office is a place of business, I want it to feel comfortable and personal. I chose furniture and accessories that reflect my style while serving practical purposes — a secondhand rattan shelving unit for storage, an antique secretary desk for both beauty and function, and a large lamp that adds soft, ambient light. A comfortable chair and the right lighting make work feel less like a chore and more like a rewarding part of the day.
Do you have an office space of your own?
Sources:
Wall paint color – Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore
Desk – Pottery Barn
Botanical prints – Poppy Talk
Blue swirl lamps – Target
Linen chair – Restoration Hardware
Linen pin boards – HomeGoods
More sources from this room and others can be found in my shop.
Find more ideas for decorating a home you love in my books, The Inspired Room and Love the Home You Have.