We can work it out! HOME OFFICES

WORKING FROM HOME? MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR STUDY PRIVILEGES WITH A STYLISH DESK SPACE, WHETHER THAT’S A DEDICATED OFFICE OR A NOOK MADE FOR THE NEW 9 TO 5

- LINDA CLAYTON

LANDING STRIP

The space at the end of a landing or corridor can prove a surprisingly pleasant work area. ‘Position the desk in front of a window if you can,’ says Anna Beeber, partner at Champalimaud Design. ‘It allows you to divert your eyes from your computer screen when they need a rest.’ To help the area blend, select furniture and accessories that don’t scream ‘office’.

EAVES DROPPING

‘Small cottages and quirky rooms can be a challenge for standard office cabinets and furniture. Elements such as sloped ceilings, uneven walls, beams and skirting often demand clever fitted furniture or an alternative way of thinking,’ says Rebecca Nokes, senior kitchen and bedroom designer at John Lewis of Hungerford. ‘Commissioning bespoke offers you a unique way to make sure your space is turned into something beautiful.’

TWO’S COMPANY

The need to make room for two to work from home is an increasing reality. Side-by-side desks can prove the best use of space, while a double-sided desk is useful if you actually work together. Try and achieve a degree of separation – at least an arm’s width so that you’re not jostling for elbowroom. Storage for each desk is also helpful. ‘We like to use comfy armchairs as desk chairs in a home office, upholstered in a fun fabric to make the room seem more characterful,’ says Philippa Thorp, director of Thorp.

HALLS OF POWER