Your home office isn’t just a corner with a desk anymore—it’s your productivity zone, your creative HQ, and sometimes, your sanctuary from the rest of the house. As remote and hybrid work becomes the norm, the design of your workspace matters more than ever. A well-thought-out office doesn’t just look good—it helps you focus, stay organised, and feel inspired to tackle the day.
Whether you’re working full-time from home, managing side projects, or just need a space to think and plan, your setup should feel as intentional as the work you do in it. These 15 expert ideas will help you elevate your home office into a space that works beautifully—and feels even better to be in.
1. Choose a Signature Desk as the Focal Point
Your desk sets the tone for the entire workspace, so make it count. Whether you prefer something modern and minimal, classic and timber-rich, or even a statement piece with curves or brass accents, your desk should reflect your style and work habits. Consider size and storage too—do you need drawers, a wide surface, or cable management?
Design tip: Position your desk near a window if possible for natural light, and allow at least 75–100cm of clearance behind it for easy movement.
Image: Lux Decor
Image: Lucy and Company
2. Invest in an Ergonomic Chair
You’ll likely be spending hours in your office chair—don’t settle for boring or uncomfortable. Look for an ergonomic design that supports your back, but also consider texture, material, and colour. A sculptural chair in boucle, velvet, or leather can add elegance and texture.
Design tip: Try to avoid all-black task chairs unless they suit your style—lighter or tonal options often blend better into home environments.
Image: @uibasnet_
3. Embrace a Purposeful Colour Palette
Colour influences how we feel in a space. Soft, muted tones like sage, sand, or dove grey create a calming effect, while warmer hues like terracotta or blush can spark creativity. Consider a monochrome palette for a sleek look, or layer neutrals with accents like navy, olive, or burnt orange for visual warmth.
Design tip: If painting a wall feels like too much commitment, try removable wallpaper or a coloured rug to bring in your palette.
Image: Amy Storm and Company
Image: Greg Natale
4. Layer in Thoughtful Lighting
Lighting is key to mood and productivity. Start with natural daylight wherever possible, then layer in task lighting with a sleek desk lamp, and finish with ambient lighting like a wall sconce or pendant. Avoid harsh overhead lighting—warm light temperatures (2700K–3000K) are best for comfort and aesthetics.
Design tip: Choose lighting fixtures that double as design pieces—brass, ceramic, or sculptural bases can elevate the space.
Image: Bonesteel Trout Hall
5. Maximise Vertical Space with Shelving
If you’re short on floor space, go up. Wall-mounted shelving keeps your desk clear while giving you room to store books, decor, and personal objects. You can create symmetry with pairs of shelves or go asymmetrical for a more curated, editorial feel.
Design tip: Mix closed and open storage to hide less attractive items and display your best pieces for a styled, intentional look.
Image: Carrier and Company
Image: Vanessa Francis Design
6. Add Personality Through Decorative Details
It’s the little things that bring your office to life. Art prints, ceramics, collected objects, and framed photos can make the space feel uniquely yours. Choose pieces that motivate or inspire you—whether it’s a quote, a pop of colour, or a memory from your travels.
Design tip: Group items in odd numbers (3s or 5s), and vary the heights to create balanced visual interest on shelves or your desk.
Image: Intimate Living Interiors
Image: Architectural Digest
7. Incorporate Discreet Storage Solutions
Clutter is the enemy of calm. Use closed storage like filing cabinets, lidded boxes, or built-in cupboards to keep papers, cords, and supplies out of sight. Decorative storage—think woven baskets, timber crates or sleek metal bins—can blend in with your decor.
Design tip: Label containers clearly and categorise items to make organisation effortless and maintainable.
Image: Crystal Blackshaw
8. Introduce Biophilic Elements
Plants bring in life, colour, and a connection to nature. Even one well-placed plant can soften the space and improve your mood. Choose low-maintenance varieties if you’re not the green-thumb type—pothos, rubber plants, and peace lilies are all forgiving options.
Design tip: Use elevated planters or plant stands to add vertical interest and keep floor areas clean and open.
9. Use a Pinboard or Creative Wall Display
A pinboard is both practical and decorative. Use it to pin your weekly goals, colour swatches, photos, or inspirational quotes. Choose a fabric-covered or framed version to turn it into a feature piece.
Design tip: Treat your board like a mini moodboard—stick to a colour theme and update it regularly to keep your space feeling fresh.
Image: Studio McGee
10. Define the Zone with a Statement Rug
A rug adds comfort, warmth, and a visual boundary—especially helpful in open-plan homes. Choose one that complements your colour scheme, but don't shy away from a bold pattern to inject personality. Flatweave rugs are durable and easy to maintain in workspaces.
Design tip: Make sure your rug is large enough that your chair can move freely without getting caught on the edges—typically 160x230cm or larger.
11. Engage the Senses with Fragrance
Design isn’t just visual—scent plays a powerful role in how a room feels. Use candles, incense, or diffusers to set the tone. Uplifting citrus, calming lavender, or grounding sandalwood can help regulate your mood and support focus.
Design tip: Use a ceramic diffuser or a candle in a beautiful vessel that doubles as decor.
12. Style a Professional, Camera-Ready Backdrop
If you’re regularly on Zoom, your background is part of your brand. Use a styled bookshelf, art prints, or a gallery wall to create a polished backdrop. Avoid clutter and anything too distracting—cohesive colours and subtle layers work best.
Design tip: Use depth—like a plant in the foreground and shelves behind—to create a warm, editorial background that feels professional.
13. Add Flexibility with a Multi-Functional Trolley
A bar cart or rolling trolley adds adaptable storage without taking up much room. Use it for extra tech gear, your favourite books, or even to create a mobile tea or coffee station. It’s a great solution for shared or evolving spaces.
Design tip: Choose a cart with at least two tiers and wheels for easy movement—then style the top tier like a side table.
14. Play with Textural Layers
A rich sensory experience makes your office feel warm and lived-in. Layering materials—like linen curtains, timber furniture, glass objects, and soft rugs—adds depth and sophistication. Texture can be subtle but has a big impact.
Design tip: Aim for contrast—pair smooth with rough, matte with glossy, and soft with structured elements.
15. Edit and Curate for Breathing Room
A calm workspace starts with restraint. Leave some surfaces intentionally bare to give the eye space to rest. Curating your decor instead of crowding it makes each element feel more elevated.
Design tip: Apply the “one in, one out” rule—every time you add a new object, remove something else to maintain balance.
Image: Viva
Your Home Office, Elevated
Style and function don’t have to be at odds. With a little intention, your home office can be a space that supports your goals and reflects your personality. Whether you’re drawn to sleek minimalism or curated maximalism, these tips will help you create a workspace that works as hard as you do—and looks amazing doing it.