Off to work-A home office to inspire!

We were recently invited to help a couple make their home office work as hard as they do. The space was one of the first things you see when you come in the front door so it has to be fabulous AND functional. They definitely called the right folks! The homeowners felt like they could implement the plan themselves but just needed a little help getting started. They chose our most popular package, where we design the room and you take the steps we suggest and make it happen.

Let's look at the "before". You can see we had a large room with great bones: hardwood floors, decorative molding and two windows.

The homeowners had a few inspiration pics that helped guide the design.

Calm, cool colors of soft gray-blue, with pops of teal.

   

                           

They also wanted to incorporate these prints into the design:

While working on a project for another client, we were inspired by this model home! We really liked the chairs in front of the windows. 

 

Without further ado, here is the proposed layout:

And, a close-up of the back wall area:

 Some of the elements included in the design:

It all starts with a fresh coat of paint. If you have $30, you can paint. It will change your life. OK, I *may* exaggerate. But, it's the single most impactful thing you can do for a space. For these clients we chose Sherwin Williams Rock Candy. We discovered this fab paint while working on Catherine's new home.

Once you've painted, start from the bottom and go up. This rug will come in next to ground the space and give it a cozy feel. 

Mirrors flanking the message board over credenza. These were added because the room doesn't get a ton of natural light. The mirrors will reflect the light that is coming into the room to brighten the space.

Another infusion of light on the back wall is this geometric beauty. This exact lamp was pretty pricy but our goal was the overall look of the lamp. This style is on trend right now so it shouldn't be too hard to find a more "frugal" version.

Centered on the back wall is this credenza from Craigslist. Our suggestion is to have it lacquered for a modern look with a vintage vibe.

Since this will be a his and hers office, two work spaces are needed. While a long desk with two spots for working is popular,  we didn't want them facing the wall (read: Jacki insisted they will NOT face the wall). This L-shaped desk configuration is fabulous, functional and it's IKEA so you know it's frugal.

Drawer bases on either end of the desk for storage. 

Trestle desk leg in the center of the structure for added design interest. 

For additional storage and display space, several of these floating shelves above the desk will work nicely. The magazine holders (as seen in one of the inspiration pics) bring a clean, organized feel to the space.

Now for that pop of color...accessories!!

Of course we must "treat" the windows. With geometric patterns in other places in the room, a solid panel will do nicely!

Another way to have light bounce: clear, glass finials on the curtain rod.

The original plan called for two of these in front of the window. BONUS: They were in like new condition on craigslist. Unfortunately, some other lucky duck got to them before we did. Fortunately, Jacki is an internet troll guru and she found them on overstock. Not for the seriously discounted price but with the same, great style!

And, every room needs a fab light! I love this modern find from Home Depot.

Last, but not least... we suggested a french door for the opening. Without blocking any natural light, it keeps the kiddos corralled. 

We can't wait to see this design implemented. It is going to be fabulous!!! What do you think?

You may have noticed something like this on the side of our blog:

It's a new way we're trying to spread the word about our little design shop and blog. We would really appreciate it if you would click on it. One click = one vote and you can vote once/day! The more votes we have, the more prominently our blog is displayed on their site. So, vote today and tomorrow and the next day too!

Today we're linking up with the The Time Warp Wife.