15 Ways to Design a Chic but Functional Home Office (2024)

Find Stylish Storage

Every office needs storage spaces, but don't feel limited to metal, industrial-looking file cabinets. "A must is a good-looking storage component that hides the day-to-day components of a workspace," says Nancy Hooff and Carter Kay of Carter Kay Interiors. "No need for everyone to know your secrets."

However, decor-wise, your storage options are meant to be seen—floating shelves and pegboards can be customizable for whatever you're trying to display.

Consider a Show-Stopping Chandelier

Nothing screams "stale office" more than bland, recessed neon lights. Pretty much every chic office features a fabulous light fixture that you would never in a million years find at Office Depot. "Make sure it actually puts out good light, too!" suggest Hoof and Kay.

Turn Walls Into Work Spaces

No matter the size, you can maximize the efficiency of your office space by utilizing every surface, suggests Seo. "Turn walls into workspaces ideal for to-do lists, brainstorming, inspirational words/art, etc., by using marker boards and/or chalkboards," he adds.The accent wall in this office designed by Kate Marker Interiors opted for corkboard, which is also a suitable option.

Add a Personal Touch

When we hear the term "office," most of us think of gray, sterile spaces constructed out of cheap material. Who wants to spend most of their day in a space like that? Adding some life into your office space is incredibly simple. For example, Seo suggests adding a few low-maintenance plants as they add a fresh, uplifting feel to spaces. Also, incorporate some personal decor pieces—photos, mementos, etc.—to tie the office into your home. Artwork, candles, and even blankets will make it feel even cozier.

Shop the Dining Section

Looking for a desk that you saw in one of those chic office pictures on Pinterest or Instagram? You probably aren’t going to find it in any office store. Instead of searching for an actual desk, think about shopping in the dining room department. These days so many people are using a dining room table as a desk, not only because it looks way less officey, but because of the added space it will give you.

New York City-based interior designer Larisa Barton, founder ofSouer Interiors,also suggests replacing your traditional office chair with a dining or armchair. "This creates a comfortable and rich feel," she explains.

Give Yourself Room

You may not have a large room to work with, but if you have the space—use it. Giving yourself a large surface area to work with can be more beneficial than you realize. If you're someone who works on multiple tasks, more room can allow for easier transitions while still looking sophisticated.

Consider Ergonomics

Of course, you want your office to look good, but you also need it to keep you feeling good. "Finding a task chair with adjustability is one of the most important elements in your office," points out New York City- and Philadelphia-based interior designer Sabrina Piazza, founder of Living Quarters. "Proper support, height, and angles for typing and screen viewing have a long-term impact on our well-being."

Unpleasantries like chronic aching, carpal tunnel, and back and neck pain can be avoided altogether if you invest in the right work chair."Find a manufacturer like Herman Miller, Humanscale, or Knoll, and if you can't afford to pay full price, search eBay, Amazon, or even outlet sources who are happy to send photos of stock and ship items," she suggests.

Add Some Color

Your office doesn't have to stay neutral in order to be chic. Adding color can help liven up the atmosphere and even energize you to get your work done. Not big on going all out with color? You can opt to introduce it in smaller ways, such as colorful technology. Take this mint green Canon Pixma ts5320 wireless all-in-one printer. It prints, copies, and even prints photos and is small enough to fit on a bookshelf or small table.

Don't Forget Your Floors

Stylish home offices never have bare floors. Try sticking to flat weave natural or kilim flooring materials, suggests Piazza. "It will give you a chic look that's easy to clean and maneuver on top of in a rolling chair." You can layer it with a hide or another small rug with a pop of color for an extra dose of visual interest.

Go Wireless

Another unsightly office space faux pas comes in the form of lots of exposed cords and wires. "Nothing diminishes the appearance more than not-so-thoughtfully planned electronic location," explains Piazza. Wireless options tend to be the go-to, whether through laptops or larger computer screens. Many companies also create wireless keyboards and mouse controllers, so there are no wires to worry about.

If you have a computer setup that isn't wireless and you're not looking to update any time soon, an easy fix for this is purchasing cord covers and sleeves. Another great solution is grommet holes in the back corners of desks or cabinets for computer, printer, device cords that allow cords to easily be hidden and directed to outlets below.

Consider an All-White Color Scheme

While you aren't required to stay neutral when decorating your office space, there is something so chic about a primarily white color scheme. Especially in a smaller space, white walls can make the room feel larger. When working in your home office, you don't want to feel cramped and confined, so lighter colors can help alleviate the feeling.

Keep It Simple

Your home office may be a simple table in the corner of the room, which is more than okay. Creating a chic office space is more about what you're going to do in it. Keeping things simple, with minimal dećor and a little plant life looks effortless in the best way,

Make The Most of Built-Ins

When decorating your home office, make the most of what you have. From storage to desk/counter space, built-in spaces can serve as a great foundation to build upon. Opt for similar colors and styles to what is already in place, then add your own personal touch to bring it to life.

Add Some Pattern

While photos and small knick-knacks are great for decorating your office, you can add some flair in other ways. Adding an accent wall using subtle but stylish wallpaper can keep your space from feeling flat and clinical. Even small spaces, like a nook, can benefit from adding a dose of pattern.

Try Unique Accents

If you want your space to stand out, there are unique accents you can implement. This home office designed by Emily Henderson boasts a gray and white plaid backdrop with modern accents. Mounted on the wall right above the desk, though, is a clear glass dry erase board. This allows the wallpaper patterns to shine through while also providing a place to write essential memos and keep necessary clips on hand.

Updated by

1. The "40-Hour" Workweek Is Actually Longer -- By Seven Hours. Gallup. August 29, 2014

2. In U.S., 40% Get Less Than Recommended Amount of Sleep. Gallup. December 19, 2013