In a world that has rapidly shifted to a more remote and hybrid work culture in only a few short years, there may be no better time to carve out a little space at home for your very own workplace. Perhaps you already have an entire room set aside for an office, or you’re wondering how to convert that cozy nook or corner in the kitchen. No matter what size space you’re working with, choosing high quality furniture can make all the difference between an office that ignites fresh ideas and takes your career to new heights, and one that simply takes up space and gathers dust. Here are some of our pro tips and top recommendations to help you design your perfect home workplace:

The Small But Mighty Office

Frame Desk in Teak, Bok Chair in Black, DC Dining Chair in Brown by Ethnicraft

We never shy away from getting creative with smaller spaces; after all, those are often where some of the most innovative design ideas are born! Have you been considering a nook in the kitchen, or a corner of the living room to create your home office? A shallow desk like our Frame Desk from Ethnicraft might be just the thing to get you started. Simple and compact with two sleek drawers to store your work essentials, the Frame Desk is also made from responsibly-sourced, FSC certified wood.

Oak Whitebird Desk and Facette Dining Chair by Ethnicraft

If you find you need a desk that can double as a decorative console to maximize space, try the Mirror Top Console which not only offers adequate surface area to work, but is also slim enough to use as an entryway console when you’re off the clock. When it comes to choosing the perfect chair, a Bok Chair is an excellent complement for any sized desk with its curved, lightweight and versatile design. Alternatively, the Ariel Dining Chair by Luonto offers comfortable work seating that can easily step it up as a stylish dining room chair when needed. 

A Workspace That Transforms

Shaker Office by Maple Corner, Iso Dining Chair by Copeland, Monika Sleeper Chair by Luonto

Sometimes your home office needs to be shared with the occasional out-of-town guest, or visiting family member over the holidays; in that case, you’ll want to plan for a multi-functional design. We recommend an expertly crafted sleeper sofa like the Bryson Comfort Sleeper by American Leather. Its mid-century modern style and double-needle top-stitching is a seamless addition to any room. It folds out to offer your guests the pinnacle of comfort with your choice of a high-density Premier, Gel or Tempur Pedic mattress, and it can even be disassembled to fit through most doorways.

Bryson Sleeper Sofa by American Leather

For a sleeper chair option, we love the Erika Cot Size Chair Sleeper by Luonto, which is gorgeous to look at, and even more cozy to sink into. Ideal for a single guest, this chair’s functionally-minded design easily converts from seating area to sleeping space in no time. Next, when brainstorming your multi-functional office design, try opting for a file cabinet that can double as a nightstand like the Sarah Rolling File Cabinet, or the Shaker File Cabinet. You might also consider incorporating a more minimalist desk as well; something like the Shaker Writing Desk allows you to be productive, while also giving your overnight guests the additional space to use too. Round your room out with a versatile Shaker Bookshelf, and you’re all set to get working and hosting in style!

The Office With (it’s own) Room

Invigo Sit Stand Desk and Linear Credenza & File Cabinet by Copeland

If you find yourself with an entire room dedicated to a new home office, there are so many ways to make the space both efficient and enjoyable for your use. You might like to start with a more executive style desk that features drawers on both sides for maximum storage; the Oscar Desk is an ideal choice with its solid teak and metal minimalism. However, perhaps you’re in the market for a sit/stand desk option; standing desks have been shown to offer several health benefits like easing the workday stress on your back and neck, and even helping to burn more calories while you work! Try out the Invigo Sit-Stand Desk with its dual motor lift base and three programmable positions. Handcrafted in the United States, it also comes in a natural walnut, cherry or weather oak finish.

Oscar Desk, Bookshelf, Media Cabinet and Bok Chair by Ethnicraft

A Linear File Credenza is a nice touch to serve your filing needs, as well as offering a solid base option for a bookshelf extension. If you’d like a larger shelving piece that really makes a statement, consider the Oscar Rack which can be used to store books, or display art and photos for a personal touch. Feel like a nice cozy reading nook? We love the classic Viceroy Recliner by Milo Baughman, or the Callum Re-Invented Recliner for elegant comfort you can kick up your feet and relax in when the day is done.

Oscar Desk, Bok Chair by Ethnicraft

When it comes to designing an in-house office, the main thing to remember is that you’re more likely to be focused and productive when you feel comfortable and organized. Choosing high quality, ergonomic pieces that not only suit your sense of style, but also your specific work needs can greatly benefit your overall well-being too; at Urban Natural, we’re proud of our partnerships with workshops that meet at least three of the following essential values: ethically-sourced, handcrafted, made with organic materials, made sustainably, and made in the USA. Check out our full collection of thoughtfully-crafted office furniture today, and happy designing!