Designing the perfect home office: essentials for a productive & stylish workspace
Image by JMS Style & Design | Can you see yourself here? Smart design combined with natural light make for a great home office space.
Working From Home? Here’s How to Set Up a Home Office That Works for You
With remote and hybrid work here to stay, more and more homeowners are realising the importance of a well-designed home office. Whether you're working full-time from home, running a business, or just need a quiet spot to focus, setting up a space that supports your productivity, wellbeing, and personal style is essential.
As a Brisbane-based interior designer working across the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, I can help clients transform under-utilised rooms or corners into inspiring and practical workspaces. Here are my top things to consider when creating your home office:
1. Location, Location, Location
Ideally, your home office should be in a quiet zone away from household noise and distractions. If space is limited, a well-designed nook, converted guest room, or part of a multi-use space can still function beautifully with the right layout and furniture choices.
Tip: Choose a location with natural light if possible — it improves mood and focus.
2. Invest in a Comfortable Chair
Your chair is arguably the most important piece of furniture in your home office. Comfort, lumbar support, and the right seat height all matter if you’re spending hours at your desk.
Design Insight: For long days online, I always recommend ergonomic chairs that blend with your interior style — so you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics for comfort.
Where Ergonomics Meets Iconic Design
The Herman Miller Aeron chair is a timeless ergonomic icon that pairs exceptional comfort and advanced support—like breathable Pellicle mesh and adjustable lumbar technology—with a sleek, sculptural design available in modern, neutral finishes, making it as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional.
Image: Herman Miller
3. Lighting Matters More Than You Think
Good lighting boosts energy and reduces eye strain. Ideally, your workspace will have a combination of natural light, overhead lighting, and a task light like a desk lamp.
Designer’s Tip: Avoid sitting with your back to a window during Zoom calls — front or side-facing natural light is far more flattering. Another great tip for a more polished and flattering appearance on video calls, elevate your laptop so the camera is at eye level—using a few sturdy books or a laptop stand works well. This avoids the unflattering upward angle and creates a more natural, engaging line of sight.
4. Don’t Skimp on Storage
From floating shelves to built-in cabinetry, smart storage keeps your workspace tidy and your mind clear. Think drawers for tech accessories, stylish boxes for paperwork, and vertical storage to save floor space.
Need custom storage? Let’s create built-in solutions that elevate your space and meet your personal needs.
Elevated office cabinetry solutions
Whatever your style, you can never have too much storage. This sophisticated luxury home office pairs custom cabinetry with a thoughtful mix of open and closed storage, striking the perfect balance between function and refined design.
Image: JMS Style & Design
5. Create a Visually Inspiring Space
The right textures, colour palette, and décor make your workspace feel inviting and reflective of your style. Artwork, greenery, personal pieces, and soft furnishings can all play a role.
Local Style Tip: For homes in Queensland, I often bring in warm timber tones, breathable fabrics, and a touch of greenery to create a relaxed yet refined look.
Image by JMS Style & Design | An office with a view and natural light promotes good mood, focus as well as increasing inspiration and creativity.
6. Tech & Cable Management
Cords, monitors, printers, and modems can quickly clutter your space. Use cable trays, concealed power boards, and furniture with built-in tech storage to maintain a clean and professional setup.
Designers Tip: Hafele have an impressive range of tech and cable management solutions for home offices which hides unsightly cords and cables.
7. Make It Your Own
A home office is a personal space — more than just a desk and chair. Add meaningful touches that motivate you: a scent diffuser, your favourite mug, framed photos, or a curated shelf of design books, anything that inspires.
Ready to Design Your Ideal Home Office?
Whether you need help planning a complete home office fit-out or just want help selecting the right furniture, we are here to help.
Image: Julie Steedman | JMS Style & Design | Helping you curate a space you’ll love to live in!
