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Decorating your home is an exciting endeavor. You can play the expert and choose any style, furniture, lighting, or arrangement. Most homeowners decorate their space according to their preferences and lifestyle. However, they sometimes fail to take note of the most apparent decor mistakes contributing to a ho-hum room. Here are 10 interior design mistakes you must avoid at all costs.

1. Clutter

The first obvious decor mistake that most homeowners neglect is clutter. Not organizing your stuff or furniture will make a room feel cramped. For instance, having too many furniture pieces than necessary may make a room feel busy�in the wrong way. Additionally, not storing some of your or your children's stuff, such as toys, will contribute to clutter. 

2. Lacking greenery

Greenery is essential in every home. Not only do plants contribute to better air quality, but they also relax the eyes. Having a few plants in your living space impacts your mood. Plants make you feel at peace and give you a sense of relaxation. Grab a few potted plants and display them in some corners of the room or hanging plants you can feature around your shelves. 

3. Choosing style over comfort

Most homeowners think about style when decorating their homes. But when they don't consider comfort first, the space becomes a beautiful room that isn't enjoyable. If it's not functional, the room won't serve its purpose. Always prioritize style over comfort. If you've been eyeing that chair for your home office because it matches your table, see if it's comfortable to sit on. Choosing an ergonomic chair will make work more fun. 

4. Relying on overhead lighting

Lighting can transform your living space instantly. Overhead or ambient lighting is the room's primary light source. However, relying on overhead lighting alone doesn't make the space warm and welcoming. Combine different lighting fixtures, such as ambient, accent, or task lighting. Moreover, experts recommend inviting natural lighting as much as possible by opening windows and adding mirrors to reflect sunlight. 

5. Not testing paint colors

One of the most common decor mistakes is not testing paint colors. Color swatches are excellent tools for decorating your home, but they're not enough. It's best to see the paint color on the walls instead of relying on color swatches. Buy small containers of your chosen paint colors and try some along one stretch of wall. See how they look during the day and night and decide.

6. Lacking height variation

Height, like texture, is vital in interior design. Adding height variations will add to better proportion in your space. If furniture pieces have the same size and height, the room will look like a beautiful mess. Regardless of how stunning your furniture is, height is necessary to give the space excellent proportion. Height doesn't only apply to furniture. It also applies to accessories like plants, lamps, or decor on your shelves. 

7. Dark paint in small spaces

One of the best decor tips for small spaces is to use light-colored paint or furniture. Using dark wall paint or furniture in a small area makes the room feel cramped and dry. Paint your wall white and use lighter furniture with darker colors as accents. 

8. Wrong rug size

Rugs can transform your space into a beautifully arranged haven. And using the wrong rug size is another common decorating mistake. Remember, all furniture pieces must sit on the rug or carpet. Or you can place the furniture's two front legs on the rug, with the two hind legs off it. 

9. Hanging art at the wrong level

If you have exquisite artwork, display it at the right level. Hanging art too low or too high makes it out of place. The best position is to hang it at eye level. 

10. Arranging furniture against a wall

Most homeowners think arranging furniture against a wall is mandatory in interior design. However, this doesn't contribute to a functional space. Experts recommend grouping the furniture pieces and creating a more thoughtful conversational space in the middle of the room. Allowing foot traffic around your sofa or chairs gives the impression that you have a more spacious room. 

Conclusion

These decor mistakes will help guide you in creating a functional and stylish space. Remember not to rely on too many trends. Being mindful of how you design your area and curating the pieces you need are steps in transforming an empty room into a comfortable haven. 

Vintage-inspired homes are a timeless interior design choice, which is why many homeowners love this style. Contrary to popular belief, transforming your living space into a vintage beauty doesn't break the bank. Vintage decor relies on curating vintage pieces that provide exciting history. And nipping down to thrift shops or flea markets means finding many hidden treasures you can display in your home. Here are some simple vintage decor ideas that instantly transform your space into a charming and nostalgic one. 

1. Antique furniture

Incorporate antique furniture pieces like a vintage dresser, sideboard, or vanity to add character and elegance to your space. Choosing affordable furniture is doable if you're resourceful. You can try online forums, marketplaces, or antique shops. Vintage furniture adds a unique flair to your home, even if you mix it with new pieces. 

2. Ornate mirrors

Featuring a massive mirror in your room is already a luxury. But opting for an ornate mirror screams nothing but old-world charm. Hunt for ornate, vintage mirrors with intricate frames. These can make a statement in any room and add a retro touch. These mirrors are typically made of glass coated with gold, chrome, or silver. You'll mostly find intricate designs on the mirror's frames and telltale signs of aging. 

3. Retro lighting

To create a warm and inviting atmosphere, go for vintage or retro-style lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers, pendant lights, or table lamps. Sometimes, all it takes is installing proper lighting to transform a room instantly. Retro lighting involves metal shades, prismatic styles, milky options, tinted glass shades, vintage-style bulbs, and pastel-colored finishes. You can buy Edison light bulbs, otherwise known as �filament light bulbs.�

4. Vintage wall clocks

Incorporate vintage wall clocks with unique designs and antique finishes to add a functional yet decorative element to your space. This simple vintage decor idea is easy to achieve once you find that perfect piece. Vintage clocks typically feature a distinct clock face design. The face may be made of metal, porcelain, or glass, often including Arabic or Roman numerals to indicate the hours. The style and typography used for the numbers and markings can vary depending on the era.

5. Old books and typewriters

Display vintage books with weathered covers and aged pages on shelves or coffee tables. Consider adding an antique typewriter as a statement piece. Old books and typewriters evoke a sense of nostalgia and remind us of a bygone era. Vintage books and typewriters often have interesting stories and histories associated with them. They can serve as conversation starters and spark discussions about literature, writing, or the technological advancements of the past.

6. Vintage china and glassware

Collect vintage china sets, teacups, and glassware to create a charming display in a glass cabinet or open shelving. Mix and match patterns for an eclectic look. Vintage china and glassware were often made with superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. They were produced when fine dining and entertainment were valued, producing higher-quality materials and finishes.

Vintage china and glassware often feature intricate patterns, delicate designs, and unique shapes not commonly found in modern tableware. They bring a sense of individuality and charm to your table setting or display.

7. Mason jars

Arrange vintage mason jars on a windowsill or shelf and use them as vases for fresh flowers or as candle holders. Mason jars have a long history and are associated with nostalgia. They were commonly used for canning and preserving food in the past, so they evoke memories of simpler times and homestead traditions.

Mason jars can be used in various ways to enhance the vintage aesthetic of a space. They can serve as vases for fresh or dried flowers, hold candles, store small items, or even be used as drinking glasses. Their versatility makes them adaptable to different decor styles and settings.

8. Vintage-inspired textiles

Use vintage-inspired fabrics, such as floral prints, gingham, or ticking stripes, for throw pillows, curtains, or tablecloths to bring a cozy vintage feel to any room. Vintage-inspired textiles often mimic vintage fabrics' patterns, designs, and colors. They capture the essence of different eras, such as floral prints reminiscent of the Victorian era or bold geometric patterns prevalent in the Art Deco period. Using these textiles allows you to recreate the vintage look without the cost or difficulty of finding genuine vintage fabrics.

Conclusion

Remember, simplicity is essential when it comes to vintage decor. Look for timeless pieces and incorporate them sparingly to create a subtle and nostalgic atmosphere in your home. Vintage decor is all about finding unique pieces with a sense of history and personal story. Don't be afraid to explore flea markets, thrift stores, and antique shops to discover hidden treasures that will add character and charm to your space. 

If you want to give your home or office space a unique look, you should try mixing and matching. Yes, there is beauty in a "mix and match" style, and if you want to go further, you can try mixing metals in decorating. Here are a few tips and ideas on how to do it successfully:

Why mix metals in decor?

Image Source: invaluable

When done right, mixing metals in decor will give your space an interesting look that has depth and dimension. It also creates an eclectic look that reflects your own personalized taste and style. Mixing metals also provides a cohesive and balanced design by adding contrast and visual interest.

Furthermore, mixing metals can be an excellent way to make your decor versatile and flexible. Incorporating different types of metals into a room can complement or contrast with other design elements. This makes redesigning easy without having to overhaul. In short, if you enjoy changing the decor every now and then, this is a good idea for you to try.

Tips for Mixing Metals

Mixing and matching metals in a decor can seem intimidating, and rightly so. You can end up with a disheveled or generic look that may give you the appearance you're going for. Here are some valuable tips when mixing metals in decor:

Select a Dominant Metal

Image Source: Better Homes & Gardens

Choose a dominant metal that will be the anchor point in your design. Whether it's brass, copper, or nickel, this is the metal that will be the most prominent in the design. It should appear in the most significant pieces in the space, such as furniture or major decorative items.

Pair Complementary Metals

Some metals are perfect to mix and match as they naturally complement each other. Here are some examples:

• Gold and Silver: these precious metals complement each other as gold gives off a warm and classy appeal while silver provides a cool and sophisticated look.
• Copper and Bronze: warm-toned metals that create a warm and rich color palette.
• Brass and Black: the golden tone of brass complements black's sleek and modern look.
• Iron and Zinc: two metals that have that rustic and industrial appeal if you want a raw and edgy aesthetic in your space.
• Chrome and Nickel: while copper and bronze are warm-toned, chrome and nickel are the opposite, as they can add elegance and sophistication quite easily.

Consider the Metal's Finish and Texture

To make your metal mixing a success, it pays to consider the finish and texture of your metals. Metals with a similar finish can make for a sleek and modern look, while contrasting finishes can create a dynamic appeal. Make sure to use a dominant finish to tie down the whole design and build a balance in your space.

Mix Metals in Specific Decor Elements

Image Source: Gabby

Another factor to consider is where you will use the metal. You can mix brass and chrome in lighting fixtures or a stainless steel and copper pairing in kitchen appliances. Mixing metals in specific decorative elements can create a subtle and cohesive look that ties the room together.

Balance Warm and Cool Tones

Image Source: invaluable

Mixing metals that have different tones can create a beautiful contrast. As mentioned above, gold and silver are a good balance of warm and cool. While mixing two warm-toned metals can look good, make sure to balance them with cool-toned pieces such as accessories or smaller decors. 

Great Ideas for Mixing Metals

Here are a few ideas that you can try when doing a mix-and-match of metals in your home or office spaces:

• Mix metals in wall decor: Add a gallery where you can place a mix of metal frames. Pair an antique brass frame with a sleek silver frame. The key is to experiment to find the best pairings.
• Mix metals in lighting fixtures: Your lighting fixtures can be an excellent place to mix metals in your decors. You can use a chandelier with copper and bronze finishes or a pendant light with a mix of brass and silver. 
• Mix metals in accessories: Experiment with mixing metals in minor accessories such as trays, vases, and other decorative items. You can try pairing a silver tray with a brass vase or a copper sculpture with a black iron candleholder.
• Mix metals in hardware: Unexpected places such as cabinet handles, drawer pulls, and doorknobs can be a great way to mix metals. Try a combination of brushed nickel and matte black or polished chrome and brass.
• Mix metals in furniture: A coffee table with a copper base and glass top would look great when paired with a side table with a polished nickel frame and a brass top.

Modern and Eclectic Mixed Metal Decor Styles

Image Source: The Spruce

To achieve that modern and eclectic decor style in your metal mixing journey, below are a few tips and ideas:

• Choose a dominant metal - select a metal that appears more frequently or the finish of a larger decor item.
• Layer metals with textures - layer metals with different textures like hammered, brushed, and polished.
• Experiment with shapes - use geometric shapes and clean lines to achieve a modern look. Mix metals in different geometric shapes like circles, squares, and triangles to create interest in a space.
• Mix metals in unexpected places - consider mixing metals in a wallpaper or a patterned rug and other places where you wouldn't expect metals as part of the decor.
• Add splashes of colors - try adding colorful accessories like pillows or rugs to balance the metallic tones.

To create the look you're going for, mixing metals can significantly help. The key is to enjoy the process. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations and textures until you find the perfect mix for your space.

Final Thoughts

Mixing metals in decor is a great way to add your style and personality while giving your space visual interest. With it, you can add depth and character that showcases your personal style. Go ahead and have fun mixing and matching!

Did you know that by simply mixing furniture styles, you can add personality and pizazz to your home decor? Blending different design elements lets you achieve a unique, personalized look that reflects your taste and style. Here's how you can create the style you love without making your home look like a jumbled and chaotic mess.

1. Use a Common Color Palette

Image Source: Livingrooms.one

To mix furniture styles that have a cohesive and harmonious look, use a common color palette. A color scheme that works well with all your furniture pieces can create a sense of unity in the room. To achieve this, you need to choose one or two primary colors and use them consistently throughout the space. Do this on your walls, curtains, and accent pieces.

To add visual interest and prevent the room from looking too monotonous, you may also add splashes of complementing colors. A common color scheme is a flexible method to combine various furniture types and give your home design a professional, finished appearance.

2. Play with Textures

Image Source: Home Designing

A fun and creative way to mix furniture styles is to play with different textures. Combining different textures like smooth leather, rough wood, and shiny metal can create a dynamic and engaging space. Before doing this, you need to consider the tactile quality of each piece of furniture and how it will feel in the room.

As an example, you can add a plush rug to give the space warmth and softness. You can then add a sleek metal lamp to give it a modern touch. Experimenting with different textures can help you create a visually appealing design that reflects your personality.

3. Create a Focal Point

Image Source: Ballard Designs

Anchor a room by creating a focal point when mixing furniture styles. A focal point draws the eye to your room's specific area or item. You can make this using a statement piece of furniture, such as an oversized painting, an antique chest, or a modern sculpture.

Before choosing a focal point, consider the scale and style of the surrounding furniture pieces. For instance, a bold and contemporary work of art may provide a startling contrast and bring attention to the room's focal point if you have a conventional sofa and accent chairs. 

4. Mix Up Patterns

Image Source: Elle Decor

When you combine different patterns, such as stripes, florals, and geometric shapes, you can create a dynamic and engaging space. This is a fun and playful way to mix furniture styles that can add oomph to any room or area. It's crucial to consider each pattern's color scheme and scale when combining them. 

You can also use patterned accent pieces, such as throw pillows, curtains, and area rugs, to tie together different furniture styles and create a cohesive look. Mixing patterns is a versatile and creative way to express your personality and make unique home decor.

5. Incorporate Different Shapes

Image Source: The Spruce

A subtle way to mix furniture styles is by combining different shapes. Use furniture with different shapes, such as round, square, and rectangular, to quickly add depth and dimension to a room. To do this, you need to consider the size and scale of each piece of furniture and how it will fit into the overall design scheme.

A great example would be to add a round coffee table to soften the hard edges of a sectional sofa. A rectangular dining table can create a sense of structure and balance in a dining room.

6. Play with Contrast

Image Source: Veranda

One of the most important principles of design is contrast. If you want to mix furniture styles, you need to add contrast to it to get a tied-down design. Contrasting different furniture styles, such as combining a rustic farmhouse table with sleek modern chairs, can create a sense of tension and energy in the room.�

You can also play with contrast by incorporating different textures, colors, and patterns to create a dynamic and visually exciting space. Take note, though, that too much contrast can be overwhelming, while too little can be boring. The key is to get a beautiful balance by experimenting.

7. Balance the Scale

Image Source: Veranda

Balancing the scale is essential to mixing furniture styles and creating a harmonious and visually appealing space. For this, you need careful planning to pull off the look. A large sectional sofa can overwhelm a small room, while a small accent chair can get lost in an ample living space.

One great way to achieve balance is by using furniture pieces with similar proportions and heights or by using a variety of furniture sizes to create a sense of rhythm and movement in the space.

8. Combine Different Eras

Image Source: Architectural Digest

Another enjoyable way when mixing furniture styles is by combining different eras. Mixing vintage and modern pieces, for example, can create a timeless and eclectic look. You can use vintage pieces to add character and charm to a contemporary space or trendy pieces to update a traditional room. 

One way to achieve this is by pairing a vintage statement piece, such as an antique sideboard or vintage mirror, with modern accent pieces, such as a sleek lamp or a contemporary rug.

9. Layer Different Textures

Image Source: Country Living

A mashup of different textures can add depth and interest to a room, but only if done right. A good mix of soft fabrics, rough wood, and shiny metal can create a tactile and visually engaging space. You need to consider the color and pattern of each piece of furniture and how it will work with the overall design scheme.

A good example would be to throw a plush faux fur rug over a natural jute rug to add warmth and texture to a room. To create a cozy and inviting space, you can also layer different fabrics, such as velvet, linen, and cotton.

10. Blend Design Styles

Image Source: Joselyn G. Rendon

Don't be afraid to blend mid-century modern with bohemian design styles, as this can result in unique and creative home decor. You can blend design styles using similar colors and patterns or pair contrasting elements to create a harmonious and balanced space.

Explore and experiment by adding a vintage rug to a room with a sleek modern sofa. Or you can add a bohemian throw pillow to create a cozy and inviting space.

Final Thoughts

Mixing furniture styles to achieve personalized home decor can be a challenge. But with the proper guidance, it's certainly doable and will provide amazing results.

One crucial element of designing a bedroom is choosing the right layout. Bedroom layout can affect everything, including accessibility and functionality of the space. We've rounded up some bedroom layouts to help you design the perfect space that meets your needs. 

1. Bedroom with Vanity Table

Image Source: Elle Decor

Many bedrooms feature a vanity to avoid going back and forth to the bathroom to prep up in the morning. If needed, a desk or vanity may be styled to serve as a nightstand. To brighten a blank wall, you may add a gallery wall of personalized photos in minimalist frames. 

The shape and size of the mirror will depend on the size of the wall within the dedicated vanity area. Then, you can hang some decorative lights around the mirror for aesthetic purposes and additional lighting.

2. Set up a Reading Nook�

Image Source: Decoist

A window seat is perfect for curling up and reading a good book. Many bookworms would love this idea. Aside from reading, the space will let you enjoy the view of your garden or the cityscape before bed. And if the room size permits, adding an ottoman or side table is excellent. Add some colors to your throw pillows to brighten the spot more. 

3. Bedroom + Home Office

A bedroom layout with a home office is a popular option for those working from home. This layout typically involves dedicating a portion of the room to a workspace while maintaining a traditional bedroom's essential elements. The home office with the bedroom features a round table and stylish office chairs. A few houseplants add a natural, refreshing vibe to the area.  

To ensure productivity in this home office idea, you may add room dividers and create an office-like environment in your bedroom's comfort. Any partition, such as accordion-type room dividers, shelving units, or curtains, will do. 

4. Bedroom with TV

For those who enjoy watching television in the bedroom, this design inspiration is for you. It's best to keep the layout simple. Place the TV directly across from your bed. For smaller bedrooms, mount your TV on the center focal wall. Adding a seating area is also a good option for larger rooms for easy viewing.

5. Built-in Wardrobe Cabinets�

This white bedroom for a young girl has a built-in cabinet and drawers for wardrobes and other essentials. This technique allows the room to allow the owner to make use of all the space according to functions and needs. Some would love to add under-bed drawers for additional storage. 

6. Add a Sleek Bedside Table

Blend convenience with style with this white and gold bedside table. The table has two drawers to store things you frequently use. If you need a place for books, a notebook, a functional bedside table is an excellent idea. The size is also perfect for holding a lampshade, an essential oil diffuser, and a few books. In addition, the sleek geometric design matches the simplicity of the overall bedroom layout. 

7. Twin Bed Layout�

Source Image: Home Designing

Putting two beds in a tiny room is one of our list's most cost-effective bedroom layouts. Figure out how to beautifully squeeze two beds into a small space. This bedroom, for example, uses a vintage headboard that stands out against clean white walls and bedding. Separate the beds with a simple nightstand. You can adopt many other styles to make guests feel at home during sleepovers or reunions. 

8. Studio Apartment Bedroom

The bedroom in a studio apartment may consist of a bed and a nightstand. A chic room divider drapes can separate a sleeping area from the rest of the unit. It will also promote privacy and discourage guests from entering this sacred spot. Instead of curtains, you can install a temporary hall wall to divide the studio apartment. This is a good idea for a rental unit where building something permanent is not allowed. 

9. Take Advantage of the Beautiful Views�

There's nothing like waking up to a stunning view to put you in a positive mood the whole day. So, if you have a bedroom with beautiful views, place the bed facing the window to make the most of the view.

10. Ensuite Bathroom

Boutique hotels are famous for their ensuite bathroom. So, to feel luxurious in your home, consider decorating the rooms with complementary materials. An ensuite bathroom is a perfect addition to a restful sanctuary, allowing you to bathe, relax and unwind in bed in the privacy of a self-contained space. 

Conclusion

Bedroom layout ideas are essential in creating a comfortable and inviting space. The proper bedroom layouts can make a huge difference in a small or large bedroom. It is necessary to prioritize functionality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal to create an entertaining space. 

Designing and decorating small spaces is no small feat, even for expert interior designers. They maximize the space to ensure all the furniture you need will be placed functionally and aesthetically. But you don't need prior experience to decorate a small space. And with the tips we listed below, you'll know how to place furniture for small spaces properly. But before that, know which furniture you might need and where to buy them.

Examples of Furniture for Small Spaces

• Folding table
• Murphy wall bed
• Double-decker bed (for families or small living quarters with two or more people)
• Height-adjusting tables
• Rolling carts, organizers, or tables
• Ottoman
• Storage beds
• Wall-mounted desk

Where to Buy Furniture for Small Spaces

• West Elm
• IKEA
• Pottery Barn
• Resource Furniture
• Apartment 2B
• Target
• Crate and Barrel

1. Assess and Visualize the Space

The first and most important step in decorating a small space is to assess it. 

You need to visualize the space with the furniture you want to place in your room or space. Additionally, you have to be practical about your furniture. For example, if you're moving from one dwelling to another, keep the ones that matter or the least bulky ones and work from there. After assessing the space, you should measure the room or area to which you'll add the furniture. 

2. Use the Edges

When decorating with furniture for small spaces, the edges are your friend. You want to maximize every square foot of your room or space. And edges will close off the perimeter, opening space for other items, such as small storage boxes or decorative pieces.

3. Maximize the Walls

Your furniture is already occupying most of your floor space. Don't overcrowd the floor space with too many items. Instead of using storage boxes to fill it with books or putting potted plants on the floor, use wall-mounted shelves.

Similarly, vases and other decors would be ideal on those shelves. Plus, you can save space by hanging a mirror instead of a floor one. Additionally, with a mirror, your space can appear larger and lighter. Finally, you can consider hanging your plants on the ceiling too.

4. Choose Smaller and Slimmer Pieces

You have limited floor space, and bulky pieces will use up the space you need to walk in or add more storage boxes or organizers. The best alternative to decorating a compact space is selecting smaller or slimmer pieces. For example, you can opt for slimmer cube storage.

Your nightstands can also be compact, giving you more room for storage and other decorative floor pieces.

5. Segment The Room with Dividers

If you have a small apartment or room, one challenge is making it larger. This is ideal for those who love having guests and want to host small gatherings in their living space. Transform your humble abode by making it look bigger with dividers.

For example, if you live in a studio apartment, a divider will be great for segmenting other areas in your room, such as your bedroom, living room, and dining area. You can use a folding divider for this purpose. 

Another divider to use is curtains. You can use these dividers to separate your bed from other areas of your apartment. 

Finally, bookshelves can also serve as great dividers. You can fill the space with plants or books to create a private nook in your pad or sleeping quarters.

6. Layer Furniture

Furniture layering also works for small spaces. But this works best if you have smaller pieces accompanying the bigger ones. For example, if you have a small desk, you can place a stool or small chair under it. This example is also applicable if you have a coffee table and you can slide in a pouf underneath it.

7. Go for a Minimalist Aesthetic

If you are starting over in a new apartment or don't have a lot of furniture when moving to a smaller home, why not consider going minimalist? You can use the multi-purpose furniture, such as a futon that doubles as a storage. Additionally, a minimalist aesthetic uses neutral colors. You can pair your furniture based on the neutral palette you'll use. Finally, you can limit decor on the walls or ceiling to achieve a minimalist look.

Final Thoughts

Choosing furniture for small spaces can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be, especially if you're not experienced in interior design. It may require you to be practical with the furniture pieces to keep in your dwelling. Alternatively, you have to maximize all the square footage in your area to make room for everything. With these in mind, you can enjoy staying in your living quarters without worrying about furniture crowding your space.

Setting up your home office needs a well-thought-out process. You want your home office to emanate an inviting, distraction-free atmosphere that encourages creativity all day. But it can be confusing which home office design you should go for. Setting a budget, assessing your type of work, and gauging your overall home theme is essential for a beautiful and welcoming space. If you have an empty corner or area in your living room or bedroom, transform it into a conducive workspace. Here are seven quick and easy home office space inspiration ideas for you.

1. Minimalist

Something that people tend to forget when designing a home office is clutter. The last thing you want is an unorganized workspace that hinders productivity. A minimalist home office could be an excellent idea if you want something clean and straightforward. A minimalist design banks on a few modern design characteristics. 

For instance, simplicity is of the essence in a minimalist workspace. It provides high functionality and is determined by open spaces, clean straight lines, natural lighting, and organic elements like indoor plants. This minimalist workspace dwells on white painting and flooring, with pops of organic materials like wood, plants, and soft throw pillows to give it contrast.

2. Accent wall

Photo from: The Spruce

If your home office is too small, painting it white is a helpful trick to make the area appear bigger. Unfortunately, smaller spaces don't allow you to explore some fun accessories and valuable furniture. Due to a limited area, you can only choose the essential furniture pieces that serve a purpose.�

Creating an accent wall is one way to accentuate a mundane single-paint room. An accent wall is a good distraction you need in your home office. It livens up your space, adding excitement to the whole ensemble while giving your room a decorative flair. This example had one wall transformed into an accent wall with green panels. 

3. Home office library

Photo from: Houzz

Have you ever walked into a library and suddenly felt a certain calmness encapsulate you? A library is often correlated to peacefulness and security, so it's another creative and impactful design element for your home workstation. 

A library is the area's one-stop shop for all necessary resources. Whether you're looking for a book to read for leisure or a magazine for your next article, a library exudes creativity. You can start small by displaying a small bookshelf with a few cupboards for your favorite books, journals, magazines, etc.

4. Office nook

Photo from: House & Home

Finding an area for your workspace in your tiny home can be a bummer. While some homeowners neglect the little home nooks, some see a valuable space in these small corners. Nooks are cozy little corners that are connected to a much bigger area. 

If you have a small home nook that needs work, try featuring a small writing table and chair. Maybe a tall indoor plant would help make it feel cozier, or how about an artwork just above the table? 

5. Pops of color

A distraction-free home office is every homeowner's dream. White paint, minimal design, and curated furniture items help keep the area organized. However, it doesn't mean you can't make it unique and exciting.

Including pops of color sometimes only need your creative imagination. For instance, you can display colossal and vibrant hanging art on your home office's wall. Or it can also be as simple as featuring some colorful, contemporary chairs or tables for that contrast.�

6. Office loft

Here's a simple home office space inspiration for those with a loft-style home. A loft is separated from the other areas of the house, making it a conducive space for a workstation. Lofts are quieter and offer a more peaceful working environment.�

Plus, transforming your loft into your home office maximizes your space. Try to add roof windows if you can. That way, you can still breathe fresh air during your shift. 

7. Outdoor home office

Another way to make your home office exciting and boost creativity is to bring it to the outdoors. If you don't have a sliding door, as shown in this example, putting your workspace near big windows will do. A big opening can welcome natural light and make occupants closer to nature.�

The outdoors positively impacts our mood, making us feel happier. Also, green is a soothing color that helps soothes the eyes and calms our souls. If you can't bring the outdoors indoors, feature a few hanging plants or a small tree in your home office. 

Conclusion

These home office ideas should inspire you to create one in the most unexpected areas. Creating a comfortable home office involves furniture pieces and accessories that complement each other. Assess your lifestyle and type of work, so you'll know which furniture items to buy for your workspace. 

Setting up a conducive home office means higher productivity and excellent output. However, some neglect purchasing the best home office furniture and settle for subpar ones. Your home office should be a comfortable work environment that encourages creativity. Buying all or a few of these home office furniture items will ensure a fulfilling workday. 

1. Executive desk

An executive desk is a large, high-end desk typically used by executives and professionals in a corporate or business setting. Getting one is recommended if you have a huge home office and need a proper desk for clerical tasks. An executive desk also offers ample workspace and storage. The look is more professional, making it suitable for managers and high-ranking executives.

2. Standing desk

A standing desk is a type of desk that is designed to be used while standing up rather than sitting down. It typically consists of a flat surface elevated to a comfortable height for the user to work on while standing. Standing desks are often adjustable, allowing users to raise or lower the desk to the appropriate height for their comfort level. 

Some models also include a separate platform for a computer keyboard and mouse, which can be adjusted independently from the main work surface. Getting one as an alternative desk is recommended to ensure you protect your back from sitting for long periods.

3. Lap desk

A lap desk, also known as a lap tray, is a portable desk designed to be used on a person's lap while sitting. Lap desks are handy for people who spend a lot of time sitting on a couch or in bed, as they provide a stable surface for working or reading while in a comfortable position. 

They can also be used by people who travel frequently, as they are lightweight and easy to pack. A lap desk is also a versatile way to change your work position and location. If you're tired of working from a floor desk, you can go to your bed and switch to a lap desk instead.

4. Armoire desks

This type of desk is a writing table connected to a large cabinet, typically five to seven feet high. It's furniture that combines a desk with an armoire, a tall cabinet commonly with drawers, shelves, and hanging space for clothes. Armoire desks are designed to provide workspace and storage in a single piece of furniture.�

Armoire desks often feature a fold-out or pull-out desk surface that can be used for writing, using a computer, or other work-related tasks. When not in use, the desk surface can be folded or pushed back into the armoire, freeing up the space for storage.

5. Filing cabinet

Another essential home office furniture is a filing cabinet. The last thing you want in your home office is clutter, significantly if you haven't shifted to digitization. A lack of cabinets or storage for your files will inevitably accumulate more paper documents, which may lead to clutter. A filing cabinet helps keep your important documents and papers organized and easily accessible. Having a designated place for each type of document lets you quickly find what you need without wasting time searching through piles of paper.

6. Footrest

A footrest can be a simple but effective way to improve comfort and lessen health problems associated with prolonged sitting in a home office. Sitting in a chair for extended periods can cause strain on your back, legs, and feet. Using a footrest can help improve your posture by keeping your feet at a comfortable angle and reducing pressure on your lower back. 

Another reason to get a footrest for your home office is to increase blood circulation. Sitting with your legs on the ground can cause too much blood flow to your legs and feet. Elevating your feet can help with blood circulation and prevent health issues from arising over time. Plus, a footrest, such as an ottoman, can also double as additional storage.

7. Bookcase

A bookcase provides a convenient and organized way to store books, documents, and other items you need for your work. By keeping everything in one place, you can easily find what you need when you need it. Moreover, a bookcase can also add visual interest and reflects your personality. It comes in various types and materials, and choosing the perfect one will showcase your style.

8. Ergonomic chair

Finally, investing in an ergonomic chair ensures you're comfortable throughout your shift. It's a chair designed to support the natural curves and alignment of the human body. An ergonomic chair promotes good posture, reducing the risk of injury and back pain in prolonged sitting. An ergonomic chair offers many features, such as an adjustable backrest, lumbar support, swivel base, and more.