Inspiration 11.15

Back to work all too soon. Of course, one of these work spaces would make Monday mornings much more bearable.

via Nuevo Estilo, La Dolce Vita, Fondly Seen

Inspiration 1.28

I have had one heckuva crazy week and the only thing keeping my head from spinning off and exploding is this browser-based to-do list TeuxDeux, which Jane at Seen and Said tipped me off to. If I don't write something down the second it crosses my mind, I won't remember it until it emerges from my subconscious in 4am nightmare form.

Which brings me to this cute chalkboard-paint calendar wall. I think it's such a great way to fit organizing into your decor without compromising on style.

Via Martha Stewart Living

The Hunt: Mad Men Desk Lamp

In honor of tonight's season finale, I searched high and low for lighting that reminds me of one of my favorite props from the show -- Don's fantastic double-gooseneck task lamp. I couldn't find an exact replica, but here are some great, affordable options if you're in the mood to bring a little bit of Sterling Cooper to your office -- Added bonus: This approach will go over much better with HR than day-drinking and hitting on secretaries.
Left to Right: 1. Green metal desk lamp (Vintage Jane) 2. Vintage double gooseneck lamp (Modish Vintage) 3. Vintage green metal gooseneck lamp (VintageCottageGarden) 4. Tensor goosneck faux bois lamp (VintageEye) 5. Last chapter vintage lamp (BelovedBagLady)

Finding a Niche for a Home Office

Apartment Therapy
I am always so impressed the way designers and architects find small niches for home offices. In my own home , we have a dedicated office space, but my husband often works from home and so it is "his"office. That left me trying to carve out a niche for myself in some other area of the house.

Here are some of my favorite ideas for fitting in an office when space is tight.

Brian Vanden Brink

A quaint space, but look closer and you will see this office is in the bathroom. Not sure how the moisture will effect the computer, but in homes with large baths this is a creative alternative.

Hutker Architects
Have a small area in your hallway? Here is wonderful little space that has been efficiently utilized.

Domenic Mercadante
Here is an office created in the far part of a butler's pantry. Spaces doing double duty!

Willow Decor

Here is where I ended up! I carved out a niche office for myself when I created my Butler's Pantry. It does double duty as a functional pantry, housing appliances, serving pieces and dishes, as well as cabinets to hold internet wiring, printer and family files. Read all about it here.

Apartment Therapy

Is this a closet with a window, an entry or landing? This is one of my all time favorites. I love the the shelf desk and the wonderful natural light.

Centerbrook Architects
An attic alcove has just enough space for a small desk and chair.

Anthony DiGregario Architects
Here is an unusual space at the top of a landing. The owner added built ins for a very efficient space -notice how they wrap around to the right.
. Tittman Architects
This area is not quite as small as some of the others but I included it because it is a space used by two people or one that does double duty. Notice the desk behind the table. Perhaps a shared space or the table is used for crafting.


Better Homes and Gardens
Another small area at the top of a landing or part of a small bonus/loft room.


Country Living
Although this office area is not in a small room; it is in a small space. Interestingly the desk is tucked into the bookcase design, taking very little space up in the room. Very creative!


Restyled Home
Here is a desk area tucked into a pass thru hallway. I like the vertical use of space in this area. The two chairs are also very functional for a parent to sit and help with homework.



This Old House
Of course a well designed closet space can be turned into a wonderful office. Take off the doors and viola - home office!


Steve & Chris
Or leave the doors on and close them if things get too messy. I really like the bulletin and peg boards on the doors for storage and notes.

Apartment Therapy
This is a wonderful modern example of how any space can be turned into an office.


Let me know how you have used an unusual area in your home as an office!