“WFH” is the new normal for many of us, and hybrid work arrangements are unlikely to become widespread even in a post-pandemic world. With this in mind, it's time to get serious about your home office. A home office is a space that requires a balance between beautiful design and functionality (which isn't as easy as you might think).
Luckily, interior design guru Jeremiah Brent has shared some tips he's learned first-hand on how to create a functional and stylish home office. In his recent Instagram video, he revealed his six design tricks that can fix common mistakes made in this area. If you want his Jeremiah-approved WFH setup, here's what you need to know.
1. Invest in lighting
(Image credit: Patricia Goijens. Design: DVV Architects)
Lighting is one of the most important features of your home. Warm and atmospheric lighting is one of the first things considered when creating a modern living room, but why isn't it a priority in the office?
“Historically, they have been very conventional and institutional,” Jeremiah says in the video. Instead, it highlights how the use of warm ambient lighting can create an environment that is more inviting and enjoyable to be in.
Designers encourage the use of lamps, wall lights, and sconces in office spaces. This means “many layers are added” and “the space can change throughout his day.” There are so many chic, practical, and affordable lighting options available these days. You can always consider cordless rechargeable lamps as well.
2. Carefully choose breakout areas
(Image credit: Sara Ligoria Trump)
If the pandemic and subsequent working from home have taught us anything, it's that we need a better balance. According to Jeremiah, creating a practical workspace should facilitate this, and comfortable 'breakout' areas are the answer.
Designers want their offices to feel like a “second home.” There, the team has space to communicate while looking at beautiful things and sitting on beautiful and comfortable sofas. This also applies to private offices. Sometimes during the working day he only needs five, so to have space for those moments, put a comfortable chair in the corner of the room or set up a small reading nook.
3. Use matching mugs
(Image credit: Raquel Langworthy. Design: Christina Kim Interior Design)
One thing designers aren't here for is mismatched tableware. It may not seem like an obvious problem in office space, but it's worth hearing his opinion.
While everyone has their own preferences on how they feel about eclectic collection plates, mugs and cutlery, Jeremiah says it's one of the key things to avoid in your home office. He says this productive space often becomes a “graveyard of useless crockery,” so to avoid this you should try to invest in one central crockery set. A purposeful collection of mugs in a neat caddy tray around your office can do wonders for both your surroundings and your mind.
4. Make the most of your storage
(Image courtesy of Anson Smart)
There is no doubt that storage is more important than tableware in the productive parts of the home, but this seems to be something that even master designers still need to remember. Jeremiah's important message is that not everything is beautiful, but there are things that must necessarily be preserved.
Finding a beautiful storage solution that's perfect for you and your space is the answer to hiding binders, papers, files, and more. From built-in storage ideas to simpler solutions like woven baskets (like this one from Target), there's something for everyone.
5. Prioritize functional chairs
(Image credit: Mylands)
For design lovers, this can be a tough pill to swallow, but you should invest in a functional chair. It may mean sacrificing style in some cases, but if you value productivity, it's a necessary evil.
This was something Jeremiah himself had to come to terms with after purchasing some luxurious cubist chairs that were impractical. “You have to find a balance between aesthetics and ergonomics,” he says in the video. This isn't necessarily the easiest task, but it's important to do it correctly. The reality of working from home means sitting at your desk for 10 hours straight, so finding a stylish office chair that supports you throughout the day is key to completing a comfortable home office.
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