Many of us have been spending more time at home lately, and having a dedicated space to stay organized and inspired is more important than ever. Here are some ideas for creating a happier environment, whether its for work, play, or both!
How do you want to Feel?
Rather than focussing on how you want something to look, its easier to start with asking yourself how you want to feel when you’re in the space. For my office, I want to feel relaxed and calm so I kept everything simple and used natural materials where I could.
Incorporate greenery and flowers
People feel happier when surrounded by nature, and I love bringing the outdoors inside. This orchid is from The Flower Bar in Larchmont, and it is the most stunning one I have ever seen. Nancy does amazing work and uses a “dressing” such as bamboo and moss on her orchids, truly making them a work of art. Check out her website and instagram for more on her flower arrangements, plants, orchids and succulent bar!
Display some Artwork
I wanted to add something to my space that inspired me while still maintaining a calming vibe. I found this stunning original alcohol ink painting by local artist Emy Papasideris, and its even more gorgeous in real life. She is an internationally collected abstract artist, and we are lucky to have her right here in Westchester. Check out her website and instagram for alcohol inks, space art and mixed media.
Choose colors that evoke certain feelings
There has been tons of psychology research over the years that have shown that colors effect our mood. Since I was aiming for a laid back and relaxing space, I went with simple white walls and blue accents. Blue has been associated with order and peace and it is a color that I am always drawn to when designing my home. (I have three high energy kids and we need all the help we can get in creating a calming atmosphere!)
Create a vision wall
I loved making collages and mood boards when I was growing up, and this is a similar idea. I hung up gold string and bought fun clothes pins so that I could change out pictures and magazine clippings. Right now, I have some inspiration hung up for design projects and events that I’m planning along with wedding save the dates and pictures of my kids. Including happy memories with your own photos helps you remember what is really important in life!
Make it Cozy
Adding in a throw blanket, pillows and other places to sit besides your desk make the space feel more inviting and comfortable. (And make you actually want to spend time there!)
Be sure to have enough storage
I had been looking for a desk for a very long time and having a filing drawer to organize paperwork was important to me. I hate having a cluttered desktop and there are SO many papers that come into this house between all of us.
Furniture and magazine clippings from: West Elm | Serena & Lily | Arhaus
Photos by Kelly Postiglione. This post contains sponsored content and affiliate links. Thank you to our sponsor, Minuteman Press.
Minuteman Press Mamaroneck is a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Printer located at One Depot Plaza, Mamaroneck, NY in Westchester County. We are a full service graphic design and printing company that serves both businesses and individuals. From a simple to a custom birthday invitation, to a personalized promotional product, Minuteman Press Mamaroneck offers a wide variety of printing solutions to their customers. Want to be seen? We also offer mailing services to market your company. Not sure how to start your project? Schedule a time to visit with their qualified staff so that your printing materials will be most effective.