How to Create an Office Space in Your Living Room

When you live in a small apartment, it's essential to get creative on how you use your home to maximize its potential. Often it's best to make rooms multi-functional, so they serve more than just one purpose. Today I’m sharing ideas on how to incorporate an office area in a living room that's both stylish and functional.

When your home has a small footprint and no dedicated workspace, often your kitchen table begins to double as an office. Instead of working from your kitchen table, creating an office space in your living room will help you stay productive and organized. Having a place for everything means piles of paper will no longer take over your dining room table. With a small office area in your living room, you’ll be more likely to keep the area tidy when not in use. If you have children, this area could also double as their homework hub. Below, I’m sharing seven ideas on how to create a stylish work zone within your living room.

ONE. Desk Next to Sofa: Instead of having an end table next to your sofa, place a small desk next to your sofa that complements your existing furniture. To make the area blend in when not in use, opt for a large gourd lamp instead of a task office light.

 TWO. Desk Behind Sofa: Depending on the layout and size of your living room, placing a desk or console table behind your sofa that can double as a desk is a great option.

THREE. Desk in Corner: Placing a desk in the corner of your living room is a good idea to keep the flow of your living space from feeling cramped.

Now that you've selected the perfect spot for your new work area, it's time to make the office space feel unique and stylish.

FOUR. Gallery Wall: Bring your walls to life! Display a lovely gallery wall above your desk using a mixture of artwork styles including abstract, watercolor and photography. For a cohesive gallery look, choose one frame style for the entire gallery wall. For more of an electric, put-together-over-time look, select an array of picture frames.

FIVE. Shelves for Storage: Hanging shelves above your desk is a great way to blend function and style. Design the shelves with a mixture of books, artwork, and baskets. Use baskets to store paperwork files and keep office supplies out of sight. Tuck your printer away by placing it on a small file cabinet under your desk.

SIX. Inspiration Board: One of my musts for an office space is an inspiration board. A large cork board above your desk is visually appealing and perfect for keeping you on task. Hang photos, a calendar and other items that help you visualize your goals. Linen covered cork boards are beautiful and look elegant in a living room. You can also buy a simple cork board and cover it with painters’ cloth or linen to achieve a high-end look without the expense.

Seven: Chair Ideas: Since your office area is in your living space, consider selecting a seat that can also double in use when family and friends are visiting. Choose a chair that will be comfortable, but doesn’t look boring. Consider using an upholstered dining room chair with a fun pattern, or adding a cushion to a bistro chair for extra comfort. I also love the idea of using a pretty petite bench / small stool especially if your desk is behind or next to your sofa. The bench can easily be tucked under the table when not in use.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my seven ideas for adding an office space to your living room to maximize your space’s full potential. For more ideas of small space living, please visit my blog where I share weekly tips for small home dwellers.