Home is where it’s at these days, and we want to help you make the most of every day… so, if working from home has got you feeling less than inspired, maybe it's time to shake up your environment? We’ve rounded up a bevy of our best home-based desk, office and work-from-home ideas and solutions to keep you feeling inspired (and productive!) in your stay-home-stay-safe workspace!
Sarah Hearts Corbels
You know I love corbels! I buy these architectural salvages whenever I see them because I know I will end up using them for something, at some point. One of my favourite uses for these corbels is as a desk support. They make beautiful leg alternatives, and you can use repurposed materials for the top. (Photos: Stacey Brandford)
Just the Right Fit
Without enough space for furniture, a small nook between two symmetrical closets became the perfect spot for an inexpensive built-in desk. In fact, an Ikea countertop and steel legs were all that was needed for Fiona's old desk. I was inspired again when creating Fiona’s bedroom desk space at Starlight Farm, using a beautiful desk and vintage chair to make use of this room’s niche. (Photos: Stacey Brandford)
Desk with a View
If possible, I like a desk placed in front of a window. Having something to look out to and feel inspired by helps me get through those long days. A desk in the bedroom is maybe not your first goal, but during these days when everyone is at home, it’s nice to be able to close the door and have your own zone for those conference calls and zoom meetings. (Photos: Stacey Brandford)
Make it Multipurpose
A closed door, a comfortable chair and room for a laptop is sometimes all you need for an at-home (or at the cottage) workspace. Consider tucking a small, but beautiful desk at the end of the bed making for a practical multipurpose room. (Photo: Valerie Wilcox)
Office in a Closet
Are you feeling the need to tackle a DIY? Well then maybe you should try the office in a closet solution. All you need to do is remove the hanging rod and install a simple piece of shelf pine to create a desk. Tip: Plan ahead by measuring your storage boxes and tallest books so you can customize the height and placement of your shelves! (Photo: Stacey Brandford)
The Best Vantage Point
Instead of putting your desk up against the wall, try putting it perpendicular to the wall. This way you can sit at your desk, and instead of staring at the wall, you can admire the room around you. (Photos: Stacey Brandford)
Triple Duty Space
My home office at Starlight Farm is actually a triple duty space--it acts as the laundry room, my office and the kids’ crafting zone. A second floor laundry room was a priority, and it felt decadent to use this large space for just one purpose. So, a desk surface was built to sit underneath the window, and a sink was added for easy craft clean up. (Photo: Stacey Brandford)
Tucked Away Desktop
An antique pine dining table can be turned into a workspace suitable for the entire family. This solution offers tons of room to spread out and play (or work!), and is tucked out of the way from the rest of your living quarters... the perfect place for those half-finished puzzles and ongoing board games to live! (Photo: Valerie Wilcox)
Double Duty Filing Cabinets
Here’s a super easy, super simple solution. You can use standard low filing cabinets, and you can spray them any colour you like. These now custom cabinets will act as the base to a pre-cut butcher block counter. This is one of the most simple and affordable solutions that delivers both storage and ample counter service. (Photo: Stacey Brandford)
Spread out
With a great wrap around desk and ergonomic chairs to boot, this light and bright set up is made for those of us who find ourselves spreading out across all available surfaces! Comfortable chairs and a clean surface area are key for long, productive and creative days at home. (Photo: Valerie Wilcox)
Work n’ Play Zone
Think about in-stock cabinetry to create an all-purpose storage wall. Tall wardrobes and deep storage drawers offer tons of space for storing away toys and crafting supplies, and a floating desk surface creates a large workspace. Brightly coloured, chunky hardware adds a sense of playfulness to this creative, and inexpensive storage solution. (Photo: Stacey Brandford)
Repurpose In-Stock Cabinets
Two very inexpensive, in-stock cabinets can also act as a great desk base to a prefab counter. Placed under a window, this huge desk space becomes an inspiring spot to work and create. (Photo: Valerie Wilcox)
Build-in Productivity
Worried about leaving behind custom built-ins if you move? Well, take them with you! In the past, we've repurposed office cabinetry from one home into an entirely new and functional way at a different house. A great example of making the most and doing the best with what you have. (Photos: Stacey Brandford & Valerie Wilcox)
Work by Day, Game by Night
An antique library table in a family room acts as a games table when it’s pulled into the room, and when off to the side it doubles as a workspace (bonus: a wide table offers room for two people to work on opposite sides!) Think about work solutions that are useful to you even after this work-from-home stage of life. (Photo: Stacey Brandford)
By the Bay Window
If you have a bay window and a piece of plywood, then this is the desk solution for you! Scribe the plywood (cabinet grade is best for a smooth finish) to the shape of the window, add a piece of nosing trim, and reinforce the weight of the desk with decorative brackets. Tip: Using a hole saw, drill a hole at the back of the desk so your cords can neatly reach your plug! (Photo: Stacey Brandford)