Many spaces in our homes are meant to bring us a sense of calm and tranquility—the bedroom and living room come to mind. But have you thought about incorporating that same feel into your home office?
Yes, your office should take your productivity to the max. However, it can—and should—also be a place that feels like “you” and helps you alleviate stress as you get things done.
Designer Dani Arps recently captured this look in a home office she helped create for this year’s House Beautiful Whole Home. For inspiration, Arps turned to Industry West—an industrial, mid-century, and modern furniture retailer—to find natural materials like wood, stone, and metal.
“Honestly, I was designing the space for my ideal home office, so every item I chose was something I’d personally want,” Arps says. She aimed for a “light and bright” feeling, which she says is “inspiring for a creative mind.”
To echo the look of this peaceful office in your own home, look no further than Arps’ expert tips.
Use eye-catching shapes
Attention-grabbing silhouettes, like the mid-century inspired furniture Arps incorporated from Industry West, can turn up the style of any home office.
One of her favorite pieces are the side chairs that sit in front of the desk. “They’re sculptural and mix white oak and leather,” she says.
Plus, the geometric shape of the George Armchair “looks like a piece of artwork and is the first item you see when you walk into the room.”
Create an artsy vibe in your home office by including sleek chairs, abstract wall hangings, and curved mirrors.
Set a tranquil tone
Achieve a soothing ambiance by keeping the color palette airy and light.
“Opt for white or off-white walls,” Arps says. “If you go with a wallpaper, try doing an accent wall with a pattern that isn’t jarring or overly detailed, but more meditative, like the ombré paper I chose. It keeps the space interesting without being overwhelming.”
Combine function with style
Just because a desk or chair is functional in nature doesn’t mean it can’t also be chic. This is the approach Arps used when designing this office.
“If your office space requires storage, make sure that piece looks great on its own and isn’t this super-utilitarian file cabinet,” Arps says.
For instance, the Cane Cabinet “can easily function as storage for books, fabric samples, or drawings, and it’s such a great-looking piece of furniture,” she says.
Create a cozy nook
Just like the conference rooms and lounge areas in standard offices, consider having a bonus spot where you can turn off your brain and relax.
“Any office should have space to work away from your desk,” Arps says. She crafted a seating area using two Prado Lounge Chairs. “These are perfect because they’re comfortable without being too ‘loungey’ or informal,” she says.
Bring in greenery
Studies show a little greenery goes a long way in boosting productivity and happiness. To bring some life and color to your office, place a few houseplants around the space.
“I love plants, and they make any room better,” Arps says. Opt for plants in sculptural, minimalistic pots.
Rethink your work surface
A desk seems like a straightforward choice for a home office, but have you ever thought about going with a dining table instead?
“I love a large surface to work, so I chose a dining table instead of a desk,” Arps says of the Bok Dining Table. “This way, it doubles as a work surface and a meeting area for multiple people.”
Add personal details
Lastly, you’ll want to incorporate your own personality when decorating your home office. For example, maybe you want to showcase a few vintage finds, frame family heirlooms, or display some head-turning décor that looks distinctive in the space.
Arps livened up this office’s shelving with Paper Clay Bottles, which she says, “add a personal touch to the space.”
Shop the Room
Industry West George Armchair
Industry West Prado Lounge Chair
Industry West Bok Dining Table
Industry West Barcelona Wall Hanging
Industry West Singleton Bridge Stool
Industry West Finn Chair
