If you’re reading this I’m assuming you are looking for ways to make your home office more productive, comfortable, and inspiring. However, there are a million and one ways to achieve this outcome. That’s why I’ve put together a list of unconventional home office remodel ideas that cater to various styles and tastes. From minimalist to bohemian, you’ll find the style or combination of styles that suit your office space best.
In the backdrop of a flourishing home remodeling market, it is projected that 2023 will witness a remarkable surge in national spending, hitting a record $485 billion according to the recent data by the Center’s Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA).
So, let’s dive in and explore some exciting ways to revamp your workspace.
Why Should You Consider a Home Office Remodel?
In the age where remote work is becoming the norm, having a conducive workspace at home is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Since we spend a significant portion of our day in our home offices, we owe it to ourselves to create a space that not only facilitates productivity but also fosters creativity and well-being. Trust me, there’s a profound difference between working in a cluttered, uninspiring room and a well-designed, personalized office space.
Your office design should be optimized based on your needs, values, and the opportunities offered by your space. Spend a moment to really think about what’s important to you. Are you willing to sacrifice functionality for aesthetics or vice versa? Do you need to get great lighting because of a lack of natural light?
From good lighting to personal touches through decor, there are multiple lenses through which you can generate your home office ideas and make the most out of your home office space.
Remodeling your home office could be the catalyst for increased efficiency and better work-life balance. A well-thought-out workspace can help separate your professional and personal life, especially crucial if you’re struggling with boundaries while working from home. Imagine having a dedicated area where you can focus entirely on your work, free from the distractions of household chores and noise. Sounds appealing, right? So let’s take the plunge and give your workspace the makeover it deserves!
Home Office Remodel Ideas
Minimalist Haven
If you’re a minimalist at heart, a clean and simple workspace will work best for you. Embrace the clutter-free aesthetic with an ultra-clean office space. Think minimal desk, simple storage shelves, and a monochromatic color scheme.
Add some warmth with a few potted plants in beige and white pots. Keep everything organized by storing your supplies in stylish desk accessories, like a minimalist pencil holder or file stand. Most importantly, leave plenty of negative space to let your mind wander and focus on the task at hand.
Industrial Chic
Industrial chic is a contemporary home office style that’s been on the rise lately and it’s perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of raw industrial materials. For those who love the industrial vibe, an office with exposed bricks, distressed furniture, and metal accents may be the way to go. You can add personality to the space with vintage desk lamps, antique pieces of hardware, and even metal wire baskets to hold your supplies. This gritty and chic set-up will have you working in style and feeling on top of the world.
Artistic Expression
If you’re a creative individual who thrives on color and inspiration, an artistic expression home office may be what you’ve been looking for. To create a space that fuels your creativity, start by painting the walls in a bright and vibrant color that reflects your personality. Add a bold wallpaper to add an accent wall or design a gallery wall with open shelving to serve as a focal point for the space. Invest in a comfy chair or even a bean bag to make it feel like a relaxed art studio. Throw in some unique pieces of art and decorative objects that inspire you and remind you why you love doing what you do.
Bohemian Rhapsody
For those who love a comfortable and bohemian style, an office with natural materials, organic shapes, and lush greenery is perfect. Create a space that truly embodies the bohemian feel by mixing textures and patterns, adding plenty of pillows and throws, and using natural materials like rattan, leather, and wood. Potted plants are an essential element of the bohemian style, so make sure you incorporate them into your workspace. You can get a rich bohemian style with bold patterns inspired by Eastern travels or you can get a softer, more muted look with neutral colors and chic fabrics. Either way, this space will suit you perfectly.
Zen Den
If you’re looking to craft a stress-free, zen-like environment as your workspace, a Japanese-inspired home office is just the ticket. A sleek and simple workspace with clean lines, soothing colors, and minimal distractions will keep you focused and stress-free. Choose a desk in a warm, natural wood and add splashes of green with a bonsai tree or a simple vase of fresh flowers. Avoid harsh artificial lighting in favor of low-level lighting with warm tones. Add some softness to the space with carpeting or a floor cushion. You can even add a water feature to create a soothing flow of energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to redo a home office?
The cost to redo a home office can vary greatly, depending on several factors including the size of the space, the extent of the renovation, and the quality of materials used. On average, a basic home office remodel can start from around $1,000 to $2,000 for a DIY project involving minor changes like painting and installing simple shelving. For a more extensive professional renovation that includes high-end furniture, custom carpentry, and sophisticated technology, costs could escalate up to $10,000 or more. It’s important to build a detailed budget plan that aligns with your vision for the space and your financial capabilities.
How can I make my boring home office look better?
There are several ways to enhance the aesthetics of your home office, turning it from boring to inspiring. First, paint the room in a color that boosts your mood and creativity. Research has shown that colors can greatly impact our mood and productivity, so choose wisely. Second, good lighting plays a critical role in maintaining focus and reducing eye strain. Opt for a mix of natural light, task lighting, and ambient lighting. Third, incorporate plants for a refreshing and calming ambiance. They help purify the air and add a touch of nature to your space. Fourth, personalize your workspace with pictures, artwork, or items that inspire you. Lastly, keep your desk organized and clutter-free. Remember, a clean and organized space promotes efficiency and productivity.
How do you make an old office look modern?
Modernizing an old office involves embracing simplicity, functionality, and technology. Start by decluttering the space and retaining only essential items such as your desk chair and storage space, embodying the minimalist approach prevalent in modern design. Then, consider a fresh, neutral color palette like whites, grays, or muted earth tones to instill a sense of calm and sophistication. Ditch bulky traditional furniture in favor of a sleek floating desk and floating shelves that prioritize comfort and efficiency. Update your desk lamp with LED options that offer energy efficiency and a contemporary aesthetic. Don’t forget to adorn the office with a few indoor plants for a touch of biophilic design, which is a key element in modern offices.
How to decorate walls in a home office?
Decorating the walls of your home office can greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal and productivity of the space. One effective approach is to hang artwork or prints that align with your personal taste and the overall design theme of your office. Opt for pieces that inspire creativity and motivation. Additionally, consider installing shelves where you can display decorative items, books, or plants. Another option is a feature wall – this could be a wall painted a bold color, covered with a tasteful wallpaper, or adorned with a mural. Wall-mounted corkboards or whiteboards can also be very useful for noting important tasks. Remember, the key is to find the right balance between aesthetics and functionality.
What is the best color for a home office wall?
The best color for a home office wall largely depends on your preferences and the kind of atmosphere you want to have. However, research suggests that blues and greens are generally good choices as they foster calmness and concentration. Lighter shades of these colors can also make a room feel larger and more open. For a more energetic space, consider warmer hues like yellows and oranges. Those preferring a clean, minimalist look might opt for white or beige. It’s important to choose a color that you love and that you won’t get tired of after a few days. The logic here is the same as if you were to choose a wall color for your master bedroom and other spaces in your home.
Summary
Your home office design should be more than just a random work space. It should be a place that inspires you and enhances your productivity.
While you don’t need to be an interior designer with past achievements, you can still use some basic principles to make the most of you home office space square footage.
Just like any home remodel where you can work on any living space component from guest room to dining table through wall shelves, you need to first pin down your priorities when it comes to your home office components.
So, pick a theme that resonates with you and let your creativity shine through. With these home office design ideas and a little imagination, you can transform your work space into one that reflects your personal work style and supports your career success.
About the author
Karim Bel Hadj
As his name suggests, Karim is the founder of Creme de la Karim. He fell in love with remote working since he left his first corporate job and never looked back! And because something you love is almost always better shared, he is on a mission to help all remote workers and digital nomads make the most of this amazing lifestyle. You can reach out to him via Twitter @cremedelakarim