Whether you’re lucky enough to lead a laptop lifestyle when it comes to doing your job, or you simply need an area where you can sort out your life admin in peace, then you’ll require a well-organised and inspirational space to do it from.
If you have a spare room to transform into an office then you’ll have no problem creating an area that will help you get your job done.
But for most this isn’t an option. So instead think about how certain spaces in your home can multitask.
You can easily set up a study in a dining room, or even kitchen, thanks to the huge array of flexible multi-tasking furniture now available, such as a foldaway bureau, clever shelving and storage.
There’s lots of inspiration out there if you’re in the market for investing in some brand new items in order to create the office of your dreams.
Before you start choosing items, you need to think about where you’re going to position your home office.
A quiet corner is an obvious choice, as is somewhere that boasts good, natural daylight, so putting a desk or shelving by a window is preferable.
If you’re working late at night, then a decent desk lamp is an essential purchase. The classic Anglepoise is perfect as you can position it to suit your needs, and we just love the limited edition one by Paul Smith from Amara pictured below.
But if you baulk at the price tag don’t worry, there are lots of other options out there that are more affordable. Try Ikea, B&Q and Marks & Spencer for starters, and if you don’t want to spend much money on this project in general, then scour your local charity, reclamation yard and house clearance shops and see what you can lay your hands on.
Remember that a simple sanding and lick of paint on a table or set of shelves will help you create a look that’s smart and unique for a fraction of the cost of buying new.
But, of course, there’s lots of inspiration out there if you’re in the market for investing in some brand new items in order to create the office of your dreams.
Firstly, head to John Lewis, where you’ll find a really comprehensive selection with price tags to suit most budgets. Pictured above is its new String range, which has a really strong design element, but the store also has some more affordable pieces in its House collection.
Other retailers you could try are Made, Houseology, Neptune and Cox & Cox.
Ikea also has plenty to offer, including ergonomic desks, concealed shelving and storage solutions. Its handy Micke (£90) is a great space saver and will meet all your basic needs.
Dwell is another haven of inspiring yet functional finds for your study. From statement shelving to cabinets on castors and swivel chairs, you’ll find everything you need here.
Once you’ve sourced the basics for your office it’s time to make the space as creative as possible. Put together a mood board where you can place imagery or information on projects. For stylish stationery and storage head to Muji and Paperchase.
It’s all about creating a space that will not only be practical but inspiring for you, too.
