Whether you work from home full time, spend lots of time studying or have a creative space in your home for side projects, creating an environment which allows you to focus, think and dream can make a world of difference to your productivity and achievements.
Some of the biggest names and most stylish celebrities in the world come up with their best work in offices they’ve designed specifically to suit their own working style, from Victoria Beckham’s minimalistic offices in Battersea, England and Ellen DeGeneres‘ big central desk, to Martha Stewart’s storage-smart Midtown Manhattan offices and Gwyneth Paltrow’s light and airy home workspace. We all have different work routines and work styles, but there are some steps you can take which will transform your office into a place you’ll love getting down to business.
If you’re feeling low on motivation and inspiration, it may be time for a shake-up of your office space. We’ve picked the brains of four interior design-conscious celebrities, based on their personal workspaces, to help give you some bright ideas….
1. Don’t be bland
It can be tempting to rid your office space of personality and instead create a stripped-back space with no distractions. For some people, this pared-back, minimalist approach works well. For others, like actress Jessica Alba, the opposite is true. Founder of The Honest Company, Alba has transformed a former toy factory into her company HQ, complete with bright color pops, quirky furniture and fun accessories that reflect her personality and stimulate creativity. Before you redesign your office, take some time to consider which environments really inspire you. Do you love calm and tranquility, or are you all about buzz and fun? Create mood boards to help inform your new design.
2. Combat clutter
Martha Stewart’s offices in Midtown Manhattan are a masterclass in minimalism. Sometimes creativity and focus need space to thrive, which is why incorporating plenty of storage space into your office design to stash away any clutter is essential.
3. Keep it light
Natural light can do wonders for your energy, happiness and productivity levels, while a view into the outside world can provide stimulus during those uninspired moments. Make sure your office lets in plenty of natural light, like Gwyneth Paltrow’s glamorous home office, and position your desk to ensure you have a view if possible.
4. Create a hub
While the opportunity to move and work freely can be inspiring, creating a hub in your office will help you stay organized and create a greater sense of focus, especially when you’re working with others. Ellen DeGeneres has centered her office around a large desk, ideal for planning big events and getting to work with plenty of surface space and a sense of purpose. Whether you choose a traditional wooden desk or opt for something more contemporary in metal or glass, take some time to find furniture which reflects your taste and which feels like “yours” to get the most out of this key office design feature.