Status: WFH — And How to Make it More Bearable

Let’s talk about a subject we can all  relate to: working from home. At first WFH status was exciting, dare I say liberating? All day in PJs on the couch? Who doesn’t want that? Us… all of us — the novelty has worn off. Across the globe, people are turning dining tables into desks, closets into offices, and beds into operation control centers — it’s wild. 

As far as we can guess, for many of us, WFH is our new reality. And it’s time we make the most of our surroundings. Here are some quick and easy tips to make your long commute from bed to kitchen table a little more enjoyable. 

Location, Location, Location!

There is zero judgement when it comes to your WFH space. It may be a spare room, the kitchen counter, or a quiet nook under the stairs. The key is that it works for you, is clear from distractions, and has enough space for you to do your work. Still desperate for a good spot? Look around your home to identify unused space where you have enough room for a laptop, stool, and small table or lap desk. Specifically, start eyeing those awkward corners, never-used coat closets or window pop outs. Here is some of our favorite inspo to guide you:

The View Beyond Your Window

Whether your desk is under a beautiful bay window or a wall full of personal photos, you need a space that is calming and uniquely you. Personalizing your workspace with art, candles, a desk lamp (alongside natural lighting), plants etc. will make your space feel calming and pleasant to work in. We love these task lamps, swoon over these candles, and would definitely recommend something cozy to elevate your space. Also check out some of our fav styling ideas below:

Home Office Design
Credits: Katie Lamb

Function Reigns Supreme

The truth is, working from home doesn’t come with the comforts of the office. The best way to keep your brain on track is to organize! Storage and shelving is a major bonus. I know the sleek glass desk is cute, but it isn’t practical. Let’s be honest, you need a place for files, pens, note pads etc. This doesn’t mean your office can’t be Pinterest ready, it just means recognizing what you need for the environment you’re stuck in.

Some of our go-to tips include:

  1. Create space for the monitor, laptop, printer, and all tools you may need to complete tasks; small tables / storage like this make it easy!
  2. Get a comfortable desk chair like these.
  3. Find clean simple holders for your favorite pens and notepads. If your space feels cluttered or too busy then try to minimize the colors to (2-3) and remove or find discreet storage for anything smaller than a football.

Here is a short list of some of our favorite office must-haves to get you started on the workspace you never knew you could have:

Lighting
  1. Lostine – Trumpet Lamp
  2. Crate & Barrel – Lex White Dome
  3. The Blue Door – Mid Century Chrome Lamp
  4. The Perish Trust – Lamp with Metal Shade
Desks
  1. Design Within Reach – Georg Console Table
  2. Pottery Barn – Verona Secretary Desk
  3. 2Modern – Lap Desk
  4. Urban Outfitters – Laurie Bed Tray
  5. BlueDot – Stash Desk
Storage
  1. School House Electric – Foundry Cart
  2. Article – Madera Cabinet
  3. Goodee World – By Your Side Table
  4. Target – Windsor Display Bookcase
Accessories
  1. The General Store – Pingraph Notebook
  2. The Citizenry – Storage Baskets
  3. Cedar & Hyde – Natural Sheepskin Rugs
  4. Boheme At Home – Misc. Accessories to Personalize
  5. Loth At Home – Stoneware Container Set
  6. Russel & Hazel – Office Organization Must Haves

Kristen-Ford-Courtney-Busacca-Hayforddesign

Kristen
& Courtney

Musings is a spattering of information, inspiration, and random thoughts on all things interior design. We hope this serves as a destination to feed your design cravings while also pulling back the curtains on the industry.