Create a versatile and conducive workspace within your home with a little help from these beautiful furniture pieces and expert tips

As the world continues to be impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, working from home is no longer reserved solely for freelancers or self-employed entrepreneurs—it's become the new normal for many.

It’s also become evident that sitting on the couch with your laptop won’t cut it in the long term. If your apartment isn’t large enough for a dedicated home office, you can always consider transforming an underutilised space in your home—such as the guest room or storage area—into a multi-purpose spot instead.

“Choose an area that’s quiet and offers some privacy so you can focus,” says Jeremy Tay, director at Prestige Global Designs. “This also helps to effectively separate work from personal spaces.” Consider a spot with windows providing natural light as well as good air circulation to promote health and productivity.

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Above A home office crafted by Prestige Global Designs

“Know what a comfortable work environment means to you,” advises Dennis Cheok, creative director of Upstairs_. However, there are certain elements no home office can do without. “A comfortable chair for working long hours is the most essential piece for a home office,” says Elaine Lu, managing director at Hong Kong-based firm Lim + Lu.

Including a sofa bed or day bed would be ideal. It can provide a comfortable spot to answer e-mails or take care of other tasks that might not require a desk, while doubling as a bed for visiting guests. Tay also recommends a sofa with a coffee table to offer a change of scene, while Cheok suggests greenery and a sophisticated sound system if you enjoy listening to music while you work.

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Above The pink study in the home of Vincent Lim and Elaine Lu, the co-founders of Hong Kong-based firm Lim + Lu
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Above Plant life livens up this minimalist study area in a bedroom designed by Upstairs_

When it comes to colour schemes, light shades and neutrals are key. “To create a calm environment, the use of natural materials and a neutral palette would work well,” says Lu. “Less eye-straining palettes are always a good, safe start,” adds Cheok. “Pastels or more elevated, complex hues such as seafoam green are soothing to the eyes, especially if they’re in your peripheral vision for extended periods of time.”

Look to these stylish pieces below for ideas on how to create a conducive and inspiring workspace.

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1. Keep It Neat

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The Balance BA05 table by Extendoweb is light and elegant, comprising a steel-frame system in nine colours and a solid wood top in a variety of sizes, finishes and geometries. A hidden compartment keeps all your cables concealed.

2. Create A Compact Work Zone

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Designed by Michele De Lucchi and produced by Unifor—a firm that’s part of the Molteni Group—the Secretello desk functions like a compact modern workstation. Reinterpreting the look of the traditional secretary desk, the table is enclosed by glass walls and features a solid natural oak frame.

3. Take A Coffee Break

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The work of Danish designer Poul Kjærholm, the Bauhaus-inspired PK80 daybed is a versatile, modern piece in Fritz Hansen’s portfolio. It is the perfect spot to take a break, or enjoy a cup of coffee while answering your e-mails. It comes in walnut or black leather with a satin-brushed stainless steel frame.

4. Think Out Of The Box

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Much like a Lego set, the Polvara modular bookshelf from Kartell can be assembled any way you want: make a statement feature out of the black or white plastic cubes, or use the unit as unassuming storage.

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5. Find A Stylish Side Table

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If your sofa also functions as a secondary working area, consider incorporating a side table to work on. The Mohana collection by Tim Rundle combines marble, glass and steel in different hues and finishes—from elegant black and gold to sleek white—for a piece that can be used either as a side or coffee table. It also adds a touch of sophistication to any home office.

6. Organise Your Bric A Brac

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The Uten.Silo wall-mounted organiser by Vitra adds an element of fun to keeping a tidy desk. Rather than cluttering your desk or cramming your stationery into holders or drawers, you can lay everything out in Uten.Silo’s various clips, holders and containers.

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7. Lounge In Style

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The Bed & Breakfast sofa bed by Saba Italia is modern and easy to use—simply fold the backrest of the rectangular sofa down to create a bed. Even the scatter cushions can be unfolded to create a small quilt.

8. Sit Well With An Ergonomic Chair

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Conceived by Norwegian industrial designer Peter Opsvik in the 1970s, the HÅG Capisco chair from Flokk has remained an ergonomic icon ever since, allowing for a variety of sitting heights and positions while optimally accommodating the user’s body. Choose from a variety of fun colours for this chair, which also cuts a striking shape.

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9. Incorporate More Storage Options

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The Pab wall storage system by Studio Kairos from B&B Italia takes the simple shelf and realises its full potential with a wide variety of configurations. It keeps personal belongings or work equipment out of sight while displaying cherished or inspiring decor pieces.

See also: How To Create A Beautiful Workspace At Home

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