How to build yourself the great study nook
Let’s be honest – these days, we’re all at work, all the time. Whether we’re at home or in the office, the constant flow of emails, text messages and phone calls ensure that we can never really clock off.
In keeping with our plugged-in, constantlyconnected lifestyles, the modern home office has become a well-appointed and indispensable part of the contemporary home, often blurring the line between work and relaxation.
Emma Hawkins, founder of Who Loves That, a lifestyle website with a focus on do-it-yourself home projects and interior styling, says people are incorporating more living furniture into their workspace.
‘‘They might have a comfortable arm chair with a tall lamp, or a bean bag over a soft rug,’’ she said.
In terms of colour palettes, natural timber mixed with neutral tones such as off-white and pale greys are popular, in keeping with our ongoing love affair with the pared-back, Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic dominating interiors at present.
Soft pastels is also ontrend, as is an industrialinspired look with raw timbers and black ironware.
Interior designer Cherel Millist of Brilliant Design Concepts says it is best to stick with lighter colours in home offices, especially in smaller spaces.
‘‘It can be challenging to sit in a dark space and work for extended periods,’’ she said.
Texture and pops of colour can be incorporated into the space through the addition of cushions, throws and other accessories.
LED lighting with an overall wide spread, either installed under shelves in strips or recessed into the ceiling, helps minimise eye strain when spending long hours at your desk.
Increasingly, home owners are splashing out on custom cabinetry with a built-in desk and lots of storage, often hidden behind pivot or bifold doors.