How To Create Your Dream Office

An inspiring work space can make a world of difference when it comes to your motivation levels during hectic times. For me, I spend most of my time in my home office and still look forward to walking into it each day, and so I wanted to share some of my tips below when it comes to creating a space you never want to leave.

DEFINE YOUR STYLE

It’s really important when you’re creating the perfect work space that you decide on a theme before you get underway. Do you want it to have an industrial, masculine touch to it? Or do you want it to be ultra chic and luxurious? Or perhaps your style is more eclectic... Personally I’m all about the monochrome, minimalistic vibe with a light refreshing feel. I don't like clutter, and vibrant colours tend to overwhelm me, so I stick to a neutral palette, and only introduce colours subtly as this makes me feel calm.

ACCESSORISE

Over the years, I have been collecting various items for my home, and have invested in timeless pieces that are stylish and functional. Take your time when it comes to perfecting your space and choosing your decor. Don’t be afraid to update it as your vibe and style evolves. You constantly want to feel inspired and motivated when you're working from home, so ensure that the space reflects your personality and that you enjoy being there. Also ensure that your office reflects you and that it contains a favourite object or photo that will give you the break you need when you pause in your work. It is these small touches that help you make the space your own.

ADD SOME ART

I've got a few art works throughout my home office (admittedly I still need to get a few framed) and they instantly add interest to the space. Be sure to choose art that brings out the best of the room, and can help mask the less inspiring elements of the room. I have chosen to display a few of my favourite quotes throughout my home office that help aid in inspiring and motivating me whilst I work, but my favourite artworks are my car related prints. They continue to inspire me to get out and shoot + they also make me want to own a gallery haha! BTW how rad are the car prints below by Petrolified! He is based in Slovakia and creates the most amazing car illustrations. Definitely need to get some for my office ASAP!

FUNCTION OVER FORM

Yes you want your space to look beautiful and inspirational, but realistically you need your space to be functional as well. Make sure you design a layout that is practical, and invest in storage solutions that complement your style and vibe. Consider your workflow and what items you need at your fingertips before investing in furniture, and then look for pieces that are both beautiful and functional. For me, I always look for black boxes that can be stacked away, and can also hold my important documents. Just make sure that everything is be easily accessible. Another option is adding a bookshelf to your space where you can file your folders and boxes away, or creating a board on the wall where you can hang or pin things to. I created the below zebra print board where I hang all my little things to that make me smile. I also have pinned a few letters that I have received from you guys!

ADD SOME LIFE

This one's a no brainer. Adding fresh flowers or plants to your work space will clean the air, freshen the environment and reduce stress levels. Not only that, but they always look good and lift your mood. If you're going for the monochrome look like I have, try and stick to green and white plants and flowers - they lend themselves better to the minimal look. Another good option is adding mini succulents in cool pots or creating a terrarium.

ADD SOME ZEN

Your desk is for active work, but you probably need a place to think or read, too. If you have the space for it, make sure you create a little zen spot and add in a nice couch or comfy chair for curling up in. With my set-up, I've got a large rectangular couch in the corner with a coffee table, and it's the perfect place for me to get away from my computer screen, and to catch up on some reading. The best part about having a couch in your home office (apart from being able to take quick power naps on) is that you can always spruce up the room completely just by changing the cushions or by adding in a new throw/blanket. I've also always got my favourite essential oils burning from Healing Essences (I'm loving the 'Orchard' scent at the moment) as they always seem to calm me, make me feel less stressed, and just smell good!

MAKE USE OF NATURAL LIGHT

Natural light improves the ambience of any room, which, in turn, helps enhance focus and productivity. Natural light also lifts your spirits instantly, I mean can you imagine working in a dark and dingy office, and how that would effect you mentally? if possible, try to make use of natural light as opposed to artificial light. To avoid glare, don't place overhead lighting directly above computer screens, and don't put a computer screen directly in front of a light source, as that will cause eyestrain.

Stay Inspired

Like I said before, you want to create a space that continues to inspire you, and pushes you to stay motivated. Your work space is also the perfect place to put my Stay Driven stickers, so if you have them laying around your office or another room, don't forget to send me your photos, or tag me on Instagram so I can check them out! If you're after some more office inspo, I have created a home office board on my Pinterest account that I manage for The Interior Design Institute.