Creating a home office design or zhuzhing an existing one? From practicalities and must-haves to how you want to feel while you’re at your desk or sat on a new ergonomic chair, interior designer EMMA HURLSTON-TSENG gives us the inside track on the work spaces she creates for her clients.
First step for a home office design
Before anything else, you have to identify a location within your home. How much space are you able to give over to it? What are the key functions? I suggest drawing up a floor plan to help with the layout. If you’re lucky enough to have a dedicated room, that’s wonderful – you can focus on creating a home office design you love with its own unique style.
I usually work on rooms that have a dual function – say, a home office design that doubles as a guest room – so I focus on creating a design with an identity that doesn’t just scream “office”. Soft furnishings, colour and pattern can all make a room feel much more welcoming.
I’m also often required to carve a work space out of another room; in these scenarios, the space needs defining so it doesn’t spill into the main room, but it also needs to blend in aesthetically – and clutter-free storage is non-negotiable!
Many people ask me whether a desk belongs in a bedroom. Kids tend to use their work stations for multiple fun activities, so I don’t have a problem with a desk being located in their bedroom; just make sure that it’s easy to tidy. For adults, I would try to avoid this where possible – the bedroom should be solely for relaxing and sleeping.
Essential pieces for your work space
The essentials are a desk, ergonomic chair (preferably), table lamp and of course some storage, ideally both hidden and open. The size of desk is super important – I always ask my clients to layout their screens, keyboards, notepads and pencil pots to measure up the minimum size needed. I love a desk or the walls to have a splash of colour – less “office” looking. Many clients these days specify an adjustable standing desk too.
Comfort vs style in home office design
Office chair design has evolved so much in the last few years and the work-from-home trend has definitely accelerated this. As well as the top-end ergonomic chairs, there are now great offerings from places like Ikea, in colours and fabrics that sit so much better in a home.
That said – it’s essential to clarify your main priority. For those who sit at their desks for long periods of time, then ergonomic chairs win over aesthetics. For the more flexible workers, there’s a gorgeous range of fully customisable swivel chairs on wheels from brands such as Hay.
Lighting in your work space
Lighting is super important. I always suggest a multi-head spotlight and if the room is dual purpose I like to put this on a dimmer. Task lighting is also key – so ideally an Anglepoise-style light that can be directed – there are so many wonderful designs these days at a range of price points and with a pop of colour or brass finish.
Work space storage
You just can’t beat bespoke storage – built in or freestanding. Yes, it can be more expensive, but you will definitely maximise your space. I have even designed drop-file storage in a bespoke TV unit in a living room when there was no separate office space – no one would ever know!
Wires and extension cords are inevitable and an eyesore. I have several solutions – most simply, Velcro cable ties to tame the wires and channel them up out of sight behind a table leg. But there are also neat cable tidy boxes you can buy to conceal a power bar. I recently discovered a UK brand that makes extension bars with coloured braided cord-covered wire – I’m excited to try them.
Extras
Rugs can give much-needed softness and texture, and can be a great way to add colour and pattern. Just keep in mind the chair wheels need to be fully on or off the rug as you roll back so you’re not catching it every time. Plants are a must for me – some calming biophilia.
I recommend going with a single large plant with a strong leaf shape and interesting pot over something busy or multiples.
Another option is an extra layer of semi-sheer window treatments to defuse strong sunlight or screen views during the day.
If there’s enough space, think about getting another chair – so you can welcome a visitor!
9878 2645 | emma@hurlston-tsengdesigns.com
hurlston-tsengdesigns
This article about home office design first appeared in the Winter 2023/2024 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
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