OFFICE SPACE: FUN WITH FORM & FUNCTION

In order for an office to be successful, many feel that function should overshadow form...or should it?

When it was time to refresh my office space, I wanted there to be a balance between how it looked and how it functioned. From the moment I wakeup in the morning, there is a toddler glued to my leg and client emails flowing in. This space needed to reflect my needs. I also wanted to be smart about my design choices by keeping cost low. Mama loves to save $$$

My style tends to blend old with the new. I've been collecting vintage pieces for about 20 years, scouring antique sales and facebook marketplace for that perfect find. I also have a great appreciation for more contemporary lines, with a nod to mid-century modern styles. You'll notice in the photo below how I achieve this balance by incorporating softer textures (blinds, storage baskets and linen curtains) with high contrasting storage structures (shelving unit, base cabinet, curtain rod and wire shelves as desk supports). Balance is key!

One way I saved money was up-cycling a few pieces I already owned. Like this vintage chair (circa 1960's) I inherited from my grandmother, wire shelves for desk supports and refinishing a slab of maple I had made around 10 years ago. The chair and desk took the most time to transform. With its many contours and crevices, taking the chair down to it's original wood grain required lots of patience and elbow grease. The storage baskets are a perfect example of how form meets function. The wicker's hue & texture relate to similar pieces in the room while storing loads of colorful toys...but you wouldn't know it because they're hidden. I also love how the baskets are within arms reach of a certain toddler. Hello function!

The following tools were used to remove all stain from the desk (previously covered with a grey stain). It took many passes with my electric sander before I uncovered the original wood grain. I proceeded to stain the surface with the same Minwax Driftwwood I used on the ceiling beams. However, I anticipated the stain to look different between wood species, so I developed a backup plan. As expected, I noted a much warmer result on maple wood grain than I did on the poplar. SOLUTION: tone down warm hue with some pickling stain. I diluted with mineral spirits because it's much easier to "add" more coats than it is to remove.

As you can see below, the hours spent refinishing/up-cycling two key pieces resulted in a harmonious focal point for the space. I love how a little blood, sweat and tears can transform something you've owned for years. So worth it!

Form and function are on display when it comes to new shelf set up. Sadly, I had to kiss my dreams of buying a new pair of shelving units or bugging Michael with yet another custom built-in project...goodbye. But I love a challenge! Especially one that forces me to get creative in order to save money. More on that later. When styling office shelves, I have a 2/3 rule. Two thirds of the shelves should store and organize, while the other 1/3 displays items with interest and personality.

The following are a few book finds I love to reference when switching up interior design. Styling with books is a great way to put your personality and interests on display.

Travel Home by Caitlin Flemming / Down to Earth by Lauren Liess

Let me Take a Shelfie

As I mentioned before, I did not want to buy new shelving units that would break the bank. Nor did I want to burden Michael with yet another DIY builtin project. So I came up with a solution to keep cost down by using the same metal shelves I found at Target 2-3 years ago. I decided to hoist the metal units up in order to fill in negative space (we have a 9 foot ceiling height). They now sit on top of new base cabinets (source below) appearing as though they are part of a single shelf unit. Same color, more storage. WIN WIN!

While selecting items for a space, form and function are always in the forefront of my mind. And since the goal was to keep cost down, I was only able to splurge on a few items.

White Vase / Base Cabinet / Concrete Box / Metal Wire Shelf / Seagrass Basket / File Box

On the opposite side of the room "sits" a futon couch we've owned for years. This futon functions as a sitting area and spare bed when relatives come to visit. It also serves as a place for me to develop creative ideas and/or drink tea while I play with Adia. Last year I created a gallery system made from art in cohesive white frames. Aside from my expansive fabric collection, I am constantly adding to my stash of artwork. It's a mild addiction, ha. An office space should reflect your personality while inspiring you to create your best work.

I'm always looking for ways to bring the outdoors in. Since we live in the country, it only seems fitting. I love how these dried babies breath work with the natural wicker. Vintage inspired pottery from HomeGoods.

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