As WFH becomes the “new normal”, Kelsey @homewithkelsey shows us how she styles her workspace in keeping with the rest of her beautiful home.
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As we move into the final chapters of 2020 with more months of uncertainty ahead of us, our homes have transformed into a place of both peace and productivity. Reportedly 60% of the UK population are now working from home and with many offices staying shut until next year, now is the time to make your working from home set up work for you. Whether you have a dedicated home-office or you’re sprawled on your sofa with your laptop in tow, here are some simple styling suggestions that will make your 9-5 station an inspiring and well-organised hub.
Get organised
A dedicated office stationery cupboard is what dreams are made of,yet not exactly achievable in my tiny London home. Instead, I’m using these stylish gold magazine holders to store all my to-do lists, planners and journals and this matching organiser to hold all my stationery. If you want to take things up a notch, use these Arreglo Metal Paper Trays to keep organised. I’ve got two of them for my In/Out filing system and they’re also the perfect size to store your laptop in when you’ve clocked off for the day.
For any of my fellow creative types, this Syramu Bamboo Storage Box is perfect for storing all my painting supplies and fits seamlessly with my boho rattan theme. If you’re tight on space, consider installing a shelf for extra storage where you can keep books, files and office bits and bobs.
Keep it Cosy
As the days get darker and shorter, you’ll find yourself enjoying your workspace more by adding a few soft furnishings to create a cosy haven. I’ve got wooden floorboards throughout my house, so this seriously soft Berber-style rug instantly makes my office feel comfy and snug. Don’t forget about lighting – when I’ve got a late deadline this Moricio Brass & Smoky Glass Table Lamp creates a warm ambience once daylight fades. If I’m really in the mood, I’ll light one of my favourite scented candles in this KÉZIA Wicker Candle Holder to keep me company as I work through the evening.
Add a personal touch
Working from home can feel isolating when you’re away from the office banter and Friday after-work drinks, so to combat loneliness fill your space with photos of friends, family and Jill from accounting if you’re really missing your colleagues. This wire collage frame is the perfect place to display treasured snaps and selfies. Pinup an inspirational quote or two to kick start that Monday motivation.
Plants
Did you know that plants are scientifically proven to increase productivity and happiness? Not like I needed another excuse to add to my plant collection! Bring the outside in and create your own home office jungle with a touch of greenery. La Redoute have a large range of planters in all shapes and sizes. I’ve used some of these Uyova Metal Wall Planters to create a feature plant wall in my office, they come in five different colours to match your interior theme. If you don’t necessarily have a green thumb, I recommend getting a Devil’s Ivy plant. They are (almost) impossible to kill and are one of the most effective indoor air purifiers for removing common toxins.
Dial-up the decor
Bring your workspace together with few finishing touches. One of my go-to tips for decorating is to surround yourself with objects you find to be useful and/or beautiful. Once you’ve got your basic office organisational and functional needs met, embellish your space with a few additional bits of decor. This Kuro Ceramic & Jute Decorative Vase sits on my desk and I love to keep it filled with fresh or dried flowers. If you have lots of wall space to fill, add a large decorative mirror to reflect natural light.
