Dream Spaces: Home Offices You’d Be Delighted to Work In
With technology making the workplace more flexible than ever, more of us are working from home offices. This has its perks. You don’t have to struggle with parking or public transport, and you can have your lunch break whenever you want. The downside is that working from home provides distractions, particularly when deadlines are looming: The dog needs a walk; the kitchen sink is breeding new life forms; you need to hang out the washing.
Without a boss noting when you come in, you need to rely on your own will to get yourself into gear every morning. This is when having a fabulous home office can come in handy. If your home office entices you to sit down at your desk, half of the battle has been won. A home office that you enjoy being in can be inspiring as well as practical and comfortable.
Lamp light. Adding a few table lamps can warm up an office area, particularly when you’re burning the midnight oil at your desk. These lamps paired with the soft-furnished chairs and wall art make for an inviting room.
Window views. If you can’t be out in the garden, you may as well have a good view of it. These paneled windows create the look and feel of a greenhouse, blurring the lines between outside and in.
Soft touches. Office chairs and desks don’t need to look like they belong in an accounting firm. This upholstered modern floral dining room chair is attractive and comfortable. Freshly cut flowers, a side table and a floor rug are soft accents that provide a welcoming atmosphere.
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Backyard access. What better way to start the day than walking through your own garden to your home office? Having a gorgeous view or a place where you can breathe in the fresh air can make the difference for a productive workday.
Salvage style. The desk in this industrial-style loft is a worktable from an old woodshop that was left on the premises, as it was too heavy to move. The steel top works perfectly within the space.
Take a tour of this stylish loft
Traditional touches. Neutral tones keep this traditional-style office from becoming too pretty. The ornate desk is a standout, as are the plush office chairs.
Custom features. Get inventive with your shelving. Set up two ladders and wooden boards and, boom, Shabby Chic–style shelving. Add wallpaper to a feature wall to spice things up.
Palette perfection. Do you have a favorite color you gravitate toward, no matter what? Incorporate it into your home office. I am a fan of green, which is perhaps why this home office caught my eye.
Get exposed. The exposed brick and industrial windows give this office space a distinct personality. The window seat offers a place for unwinding — or sneaking in a nap.
Functional finesse. Home offices need to be practical, but that doesn’t mean they need to come from a cubicle farm. This midcentury home office has task lighting with a stylish touch.
Nice and narrow. Floating shelves and a narrow desk allow this space to be discreet but eye catching at the same time. The assortment of frames lends a casual feel.
Get personal. Personalize your office with items that mean something to you. Quirky cushions, framed prints — decorate to your heart’s content.
Decorate With Intention: Get Your Home Office Right
Creative custom made. How about a little red Corvette for a desk at home? I am sure Prince would approve. Don’t be afraid to go left of center — a work office doesn’t need to be all function and no fun.
The writing’s on the wall. Make bold statements in black and white with accents of red. The wood flooring and desk here add a warm touch.
More:
Home Office Touches Anyone Can Do
7 Ways to Make Your Home Office Work Better for You
Tell us: What do you think of these offices? Share pictures of your own office in the Comments section.