As the number of remote workers continues to grow, it’s little wonder that more people than ever are opting to create an office space at home. Although the thought of working from the sofa can be tempting, it’s important to have a dedicated space in which you can really get into the right mindset for the day – complete with the right set-up to encourage maximum productivity.
A space in which you may find yourself spending many hours in each week, the aesthetics and overall feel of your home office are just as important as the practical stuff. Creating a bright and happy space that you love being in will make those working hours just fly by, and a few simple touches can make all the difference.
Whether you’re starting with a blank canvas or hoping to revamp an existing space that doesn’t quite cut it, it’s entirely possible to inject a little luxury into your home office. We sat down with the experts at Officeworkspace.com – specialists in office refurbishment – to find out some of the key trends on their radar for 2020. Prepare to get inspired.
Modern and minimalistic
If cleanliness and order are your criteria for a great home office, then a minimalist approach is a no-brainer. Keeping your workspace tidy and devoid of all clutter has been shown to boost productivity, so it would be a smart move to keep things as streamlined as possible – and thankfully, it’s a major home office trend for 2020, too.
So, where to start? Hardwood or natural stone flooring will help to create a spacious feeling and allow for free movement of furnishings. Bookcases with blunt edges can add a thoroughly modern feel, but avoid a lot of filigree millwork and trim.
Keep your décor to a tasteful minimum; choose one statement rug or wall hanging, and leave it at that. A monochromatic colour scheme can also help create an organised feel – and keep clutter hidden and well away from your desk to avoid stress and distractions. Chic filing cabinets or storage units together with adjustable seating and overhead shelving are both practical and look great, too.
Industrial style
Are you a fan of taking your Macbook Pro with you to your favourite café and getting some work done over coffee? It might be the trendy industrial look that appeals to you, so why not channel it into your own home?
Having already found its way into kitchens over the past decade, it’s time to take things a step further. Industrial-style home office designs will be a popular look in 2020, making for an edgy and inspiring space in which creatives can really get into their groove.
It’s simple to create an authentic look with stylish furniture and accessories, start with exposed brick walls and vaulted, beamed ceilings – great if your home office is located in a loft or a basement – and add eclectic accessories. Think low-hanging pendulum lights and an oversize desk lamp, with dark, moody colours accented with metallics or acid brights.
Warm woods
Reminiscent of a classic men’s library or perhaps even a headteacher’s office, but with updated finishes and details, achieve a cosier and more traditional feel with the help of hardwood floors stained in tones of beige or other neutrals. Opt for wood-panelled walls finished with coloured stains to create a vibrant feel, avoiding the darker shades that would have featured in times gone by. Coffered ceilings trimmed out in beams or panels can also add to the overall feel.
If you have a lot of books to store, then custom-made, floor-to-ceiling bookcases are just the ticket, and can make for an interesting focal point for the room. A window seat, with a large wooden desk and big leather chair are the finishing touches that will ensure you nail this 2020 home office trend.
When choosing the style for your home office, be sure to consider the rest of your home. Whilst it doesn’t need to mirror the other rooms entirely, the best luxury homes have a running feel throughout – and a cohesive approach can add to the spacious feel you’re no doubt trying to achieve.
And remember, first impressions count – so if you’re going to be seeing clients or business partners in your home office, then be sure to spend some time on the exterior of your house, as well as your front door and hallway, to ensure they set the right tone.
