This isn't just the case for smaller design studios: You'll find these décor staples in the rooms of some of the world's largest creative agencies, like Pentagram and UsTwo. Of course, each space is different in look and personality, but the same things always creep in.
For many of you, some of the items listed below will bring back fond memories of visiting IKEA to set up your first office. Many of them have likely remained the same even through multiple moves as your business and team have grown. To provide you with even more inspiration, we've also shared some real studios from our creative community. Enjoy!
1. IKEA bookshelf
No design studio is complete without IKEA's popular white shelving system. Now called KALLAX, it's affordable, reliable and versatile. It's a much-used piece of furniture that we see time and time again, from room dividers and sideboards to bookcases, vinyl storage and D&AD pencil displays. But don't even think about buying anything other than white; it's the preferred colour in this industry.
2. Motivational letterpress printing
While some studios eschew classic designs in favor of other typographic statements, Anthony Barrile's “Work Hard & Be Nice To People” has become a staple at many studios in the industry over the past decade. The graphic artist is known for his impactful yet forthright statements and love of print, and it's clear why the design community loves his work. Other options for your office walls include work by graphic artist “type twister” Sarah Boris and designers Dani Molyneux and Veronica Fuerte of Hey.
Tim Easley's office. Image courtesy of the designer.
Tim Easley's office. Image courtesy of the designer.
3. Classic Anglepoise Desk Lamp
Whether it's a cosy corner or a well-lit desk, lamps are an essential part of any discerning graphic designer's space. But if there's one classic lamp that creatives will always rely on, it's the Anglepoise desk lamp. Who could resist the appeal of this timeless British product? Especially when there are so many attractive options available.
4. Toys and playful decorations
We all want to express ourselves creatively. You want your workspace to say something about you and what you like. That's why vinyl toys feature heavily in many studios. Nostalgic toys like Transformers also make a big appearance. We love this classic smiley lamp that doubles as both a toy and a functional object. Space is limited, so you have to be practical with these things. Or opt for something a little more grown-up, like a typographic ornament. Are you guilty of displaying ampersands? If you haven't added any to your office yet, Etsy has some pretty good options.
Studio Build's headquarters in Leeds. Courtesy of Michael C Place.
Matt Smith's office at Daylight. Image courtesy of the artist.
5. Swiss Cheese Factory
You'll see plenty of cacti, prayer and peace lilies and heart-shaped plants in design firms across the globe, but one plant that stands out above the rest is the Swiss cheese. There's something about this unassuming plant that draws designers from all over the world. Maybe it's its interesting leaves. Maybe it's its air-purifying powers. Whatever the reason, this plant is one of the industry's most beloved. Beard & Daisy offers a great alternative, and in solidarity with Ukraine, they're donating £1 from every Swiss Cheese plant sold to Chews Love, a charity that provides vital aid to people forced to flee the country.
6. Habitat Flap Clock
Sadly, it's no longer available to buy from the Habitat website, but this classic flip clock is a favourite in many design studios across the UK. If you're looking for a decent alternative, we recommend industry favourite Present & Correct. We particularly love their flip clock/calendar, which retails for £195. Made by a small company in Hong Kong since 1968, it comes in yellow, black and grey. A real classic. (We've even seen it on Pentagram!)
7. Mini fridge
A mini fridge is a must-have in any design studio, whether it's for keeping beer, milk in the office, or chocolate cold in the summer, but one classic that keeps coming back is the astoundingly awesome Marshall fridge. It's an icon of the creative industries, something only the cool kids have.
8. The Collection Book by G.F. Smith
Yes, you have essential reference books like Swiss Graphic Design by Richard Hollis, Total Design 63-73 by Unit Edition, and Twenty-Five Years at the Public by Paula Schaer. But among these vast collections of titles is a booklet that is popular the world over: The Collection Book by G.F. Smith. This booklet lists all the papers, thicknesses and embossings offered in the four main collections, from Colorplan to Fine. It is certainly useful, but it is a testament to one's profession and is often more of an ornament than an essential guide.
Tom Muller's office. Image courtesy of the designer.
Jamhot's office. Image courtesy of the studio.
monopo's office. Image courtesy of the studio.
9. Corkboards, pegboards, and panels
Creators need inspiration. They need to be surrounded by art and design. IKEA SKADIS gives you everything you need. Available in white, you can choose just one or combine several to create a larger version. Then use different accessories like hooks and small shelves to store your things. The best thing about having a board on your wall is that you can always swap it out when inspiration strikes.
10. A desk for storing pens and pencils
With so many gadgets, tools and stationery, you need the right storage to keep your desk neat and tidy. But it doesn't just have to be boxes, folders and baskets – it has to be stylish too. That's where acclaimed Danish design company Hay comes in. We love their coloured crates, their versatile round storage bins and pretty much every product they make, all of which can be found in their studios all over the world. And if you need even more storage, the Boby Trolley is a great choice – conveniently keep it under or next to your desk.
in conclusion
So there you have it, the 10 decor and furniture pieces we're sure to find in design studios wherever we go. We didn't include other strong contenders like the honorary studio dog or the requisite gumball machine, nor did we add the fixed-gear bike hanging on the wall. But while researching, we discovered a recent project by Ben The Illustrator. He asked his creative friends on Twitter what their dream workspace would look like, and the results somewhat aligned with our breakdown of must-have items. We'd like to leave his final illustration here to provide you with some further inspiration.