27 Small Home Office Ideas for Better Productivity

There are plenty of reasons to dread the workday (no matter how much you love your job!). Your office space shouldn’t be one of them.

With more people working from home than perhaps ever before, we’ve found ourselves with a ton of freedom to decorate our offices to suit our needs and personal styles. So what’s stopping you?

If you’re like most at-home workers, space is a major concern. The good news is that decorating a small space doesn’t need to be a chore! Keep reading for our favorite small office ideas you can recreate whether you work at home or in a cubicle.

1. Keep it Simple with a Desk Lamp

Working from home can be a fun and productive way to tackle your work day. To get the most out of it, invest in a quality office desk and add a lamp that sheds bright natural light over your workspace. Natural lighting will reduce eye strain and create a comfortable working atmosphere.

Additionally, there are many small-size desks or laptop tables you can find in stores or online that fit perfectly into any small home office space – so don’t worry about sacrificing the aesthetics of the room to squeeze in an office.

A home office with a standing desk, laptop, lamp, drink can, and decor on a carpeted floor; a stool with a knitted cushion is nearby — Source: @cottonandcomb via Instagram

Minimalist desk setup featuring a metal chair, lamp, and decor against gray walls and on a wooden floor — Source: @cozyhomequeen via Instagram

A home office with a green chair, white desk, laptop, desk lamp, books, and plant — Source: @iammadhurasengupta via Instagram

2. Invest in Pull-Out Desks

To gain the most from limited space, investing in desks with pull-out tables can help to save room. This way, you can lay out what you need while only taking up minimal area. Adding standalone shelves and drawers to store materials also helps keep the area organized and tidy.

A bright home office with a large oull out desk, laptop, monitor, notebooks, and a wicker chair with a white cushion — Source: @letsmakeitsparkle via Instagram

3. Maximize Space With a Corner Desk

Consider investing in a corner office desk that allows you to make the most of the walls in your room and reduce the amount of furniture you need.

There are plenty of creative ideas out there for sprucing up your corner desk too—wall hangings or plants can really tie together a look and bring life into the atmosphere.

Bright home office with wooden corner desk, skylight, framed photos, and decorative vases. Includes a printer, lamp, and a view outside — Source: @marys_32summers via Instagram

4. Add a Pegboard

A great way to create a home office without taking up too much room is by utilizing a pegboard. You can paint it any color to fit in with the look and feel of your space, and then run shelves and cupboards along it for additional storage. This gives you the perfect work area to get creative and productive, no matter how small your home might be.

Cozy attic workspace with a wooden desk, chair, plants, and a skylight; pegboard organizer on the wall, and a basket on the floor — Source: @mplrealestateinc via Instagram

5. Stay Up-To-Date with a Black Chalkboard

Black chalkboard is a place to jot down ideas and plan out projects right at your fingertips. Alternatively, create an entire chalkboard wall to add a unique twist of creativity to the room that can become your go-to spot when looking to brainstorm any out-of-the-box ideas!

Home office setup with a wooden desk, green velvet chair, dual monitors, a laptop, plant, and a blank chalkboard on the wall — Source: @surroundedbyneutral via Instagram

Modern home office nook with a white desk, wooden drawers, metal chair, black chalkboard wall, and three white shelves with books and photos — Source: @ghida.elmikati via Instagram

6. Set up a Home Office Desk in a Bay Window

Drawing inspiration from the outdoors, creating a home office in a bay window is an excellent idea with the potential to add beauty and creativity to your workspace. It’s important to get abundant natural light, so you should position your bay window office desk near your window for optimal productivity. Also, go for simple decorations like potted plants or hung artwork to bring life to the room.

Since there’s not much floor space in this type of work area, wall-mounted shelves, and storage units make great alternatives for organizing important documents and supplies.

A cozy home office with a desk, white chair, and monitor; shelves holding plants and decor; a large bay window letting in natural light — Source: @alittlesprucing via Instagram

Cozy study nook with a wooden desk, chair, and large windows overlooking green trees, with a vase of flowers sitting on the desk — Source: @sarahmagnessdesign via Instagram

A bright home office with two transparent chairs, blue desk, lamps, and wall shelves, set against large bay windows — Source: @dodelinedesign via Instagram

7. Create a Living Room Office

If you’re working from home and don’t have a dedicated office room, try getting creative in transforming your living room into a small home office. Start with clearing out an unused corner of the living room and adding a small table and comfortable chair. To keep the area from seeming cluttered, consider having fun with wall decor to designate the space as an office section.

Get some color-coordinated organizational pieces for storage, such as bright wire baskets where you can tuck away paperwork or digital devices when not in use. Don’t forget to personalize the spot with some creative items that inspire you.

Standing desk setup with dual monitors, keyboard, and mouse; high chair and books on shelves; string lights adorn the glass wall — Source: @condocharm via Instagram

Compact home office with a computer on a white desk, gray chair, and art piece of trees and mountains in orange tones on the wall — Source: @rice_camp via Instagram

8. Keep It White & Clean

A white home office is a great way to create an energizing space in your home to get creative and get things done. Making use of bright whites and light can truly make you feel more productive. Consider going all-white with the furniture, and walls, or even invest in some plants for a fresher vibe.

Whether you choose to go minimalistic or add some personal touches, try to keep the space as neat and tidy as possible. Clean up after you’re done with tasks for a fresh start every day that will inspire motivation and possibly spark creativity.

Minimalist workspace with a white desk, black chair, laptop, framed quotes, and a tall mirror reflecting a living room — Source: @evelynrosedesign via Instagram

A small, cozy workspace with a white desk, chair, and drawers under a skylight featuring decor including a lamp, wall art, and a plant vase — Source: @villa_lill_rose via Instagram

Minimalist home office with a small desk, chair, and computer beneath a large calendar; decor includes plants and a geometric light fixture — Source: @happiness_plants_home via Instagram

A minimalist workspace with a laptop, globe, books, and a framed picture on a white desk with a checkered blanket draped over a chair — Source: @dianaelizabethstyles via Instagram

Minimalist desk setup featuring a black chair, desk lamp, books, and a plant with large plant artwork on the wall behind the desk — Source: @wildercalifornia via Instagram

Minimalist home office with a white desk, green chair, floating shelves, and decor items like a gold bull skull and plants — Source: @katie_elaine via Instagram

9. Green Up Your Home Office with a Desk Plant

Adding a touch of greenery to your home office can significantly boost your mood and productivity. Desk plants like succulents, peace lilies, or snake plants not only purify the air but also bring a serene and calming presence to your workspace. Opt for low-maintenance varieties that thrive in indoor lighting.

Moreover, incorporating a plant into your office decor can be a simple yet effective way to personalize your space and create a more pleasant and inviting work environment.

Cozy room with a wooden desk and brown chair, green armchair, potted plants, round rug, and a window with patterned curtains — Source: @raineysresidence via Instagram

Cozy bedroom corner with a white desk, textured chair, computer, decorative plants, and pampas grass in neutral tones and modern decor — Source: @visitnumber7 via Instagram

Modern office desk with plants, a tablet, coffee cup, and stationery set against a white wall with motivational text — Source: @hubofficedesign_iankelsey via Instagram

10. Hang Background Art to Jazz up Your Zoom Meetings

If you’re looking for some creative small home office ideas to make your space feel productive and pleasant, one of the best tips is to hang background art. By selecting the right piece of art, you can make sure that your Zoom meetings have a professional polish while also making your home office come alive.

You don’t need to invest in expensive artwork; there are tons of prints available online at great prices that let you express yourself with beautiful colors and fascinating images.

Modern office with a central desk, two black chairs, abstract art on the walls, and a lamp on the desk. Beige walls and curtain — Source: @dkbdesignsla via Instagram

Minimalist home office with a wooden desk, chair, floor lamp, plant, and three abstract art pieces on a white wall — Source: @homeslicehome via Instagram

Elegant office with a wooden desk, two gray chairs, a tufted armchair, bookshelf, artwork, and modern gold chandelier — Source: @id_chirag via Instagram

11. Install Cabinets & Shelves

Maximizing storage space is crucial in a small home office, and installing cabinets and shelves can be a game-changer. Opt for vertical storage solutions like floating shelves or wall-mounted cabinets to utilize vertical space without cluttering the floor area.

These installations not only help keep your workspace organized but also offer an opportunity to display decorative items or store essential documents and office supplies within arm’s reach. Choose designs that complement your room’s aesthetics, and consider adjustable shelving to accommodate different item sizes.

Modern home office with a large desk, computer, and white swivel chair; shelves with decor and neutral-toned cabinets above — Source: @interfarcustomfurniture via Instagram

Elegant dark home office with wooden desk, white chair, bookshelves, potted plants, and a hanging light fixture — Source: @laurenhaskettfinedesign via Instagram

Small home office with wooden flooring, a desk, chair, shelves with books, and decorative items, a window shows a cityscape view — Source: @studio.maira via Instagram

A stylish home office with dark built-in shelves, a wooden desk, a beige chair, and decorative items, including plants and globes — Source: @frankelbuildinggroup via Instagram

A modern home office with a wooden desk, shelves filled with books, closed cabinets above, and a wooden stool in front — Source: @apartmund via Instagram

12. Craft a Mood or Theme in Your Office Space

For those of us who are now accustomed to working from home, it can be hard to find new and interesting ways to invigorate our workspace. One way to make your small home office stand out is by crafting a mood or theme for the room.

Consider hanging printed wallpaper that resonates with who you are and what you’re working towards. Incorporate themed decor pieces that stimulate creativity and productivity, such as string lights, posters and artwork, plants, furniture of a certain color palette, and statement rugs.

Cozy desk with a laptop, lamp, and decorations, including a "speak no evil" monkey trio, next to a round mirror and leafy plants — Source: @laverockrise119 via Instagram

13. Hang Wall Tapestry

If you want an office that truly reflects who you are, consider adding some creative touches. A great way to bring more personality into your space is to hang a wall tapestry!

Tapping into different aspects of color therapy and design psychology, wall tapestries can provide a much-needed sense of relaxation as you work – when picked correctly, these textiles can energize the space and inspire a calming ambiance. Best of all, they’re budget-friendly while making a bold statement in any home office!

Small white desk with computer, chair, plant, and framed pictures. Blue floral wallpaper accent behind. Cozy office nook setup — Source: @doxey_days via Instagram

Cozy home office with a world map, desk, computer, and office supplies, large window view of greenery and a balcony with a table — Source: @itravelwithmel via Instagram

14. Turn a Closet Into an Office

A small home office doesn’t need to feel cramped and claustrophobic! Efficiency is key when creating a workspace in a tiny area. Consider utilizing a closet office desk with a door that can be used as storage when not needed.

This way, you could switch easily between using the desk for work and closing it up for more space in your room. Adding some houseplants and uplifting wall art will also create a pleasant atmosphere for productivity.

Small home office setup in a closet, featuring a computer desk, chair, shelves with board games, and a desktop computer with a lamp — Source: @from_hatfield_to_home via Instagram

Compact home office in a closet with a desk, computer, lamp, and decorative items on shelves with door and banister in foreground — Source: @from_hatfield_to_home via Instagram

Cozy nook with an armchair, blanket, and cabinet desk; decor includes a deer mount, plaid file organizer, and a photo frame — Source: @shady_pines3interiors via Instagram

15. Enhance Your Space with Printed Wall Accents

By including printed patterned wallpaper or vibrant artwork, you’re able to create an endearing milieu in your home office. In addition to creating an energizing atmosphere, a printed wall can also define boundaries between creative projects and personal projects.

If your budget allows, custom-framed prints that reflect your interests can be the perfect touch for your custom office setup. Furthermore, don’t forget about low-cost options such as wrapping paper or pages from old magazines – these can make all the difference in producing an eye-catching yet cost-effective home office.

Minimalist workspace with a floating desk, laptop, chair, and shelves; decor includes cacti, a wall organizer, and a dotted wall pattern — Source: @magicinmyhome via Instagram

Home office with a black desk and chair, wall-mounted wooden shelves, decorative wallpaper, and a digital drawing tablet on the desk — Source: @shannonquimby via Instagram

16. Showcase Your Gallery Wall

Choose some stunning statement prints or artwork and arrange them in a creative layout on the back wall. Not only will it be eye-catching but it’ll also help improve your focus and productivity as you take time out of the day to appreciate the artistic expression around you.

If you plan properly and choose colors that complement each other, your office can be transformed into a beautiful space where creativity is inspired.

Home office with a wood desk, computer, chair, shelves with decor, wall art, and a window with sheer curtains. Cozy and organized space — Source: @indu_blissful_home via Instagram

Home office with an iMac, orange chair, green plants, and wall art featuring a pineapple, moose, and a coffee-themed print — Source: @soelderberrygood via Instagram

Minimalist home office with a white desk, wicker chair, computer, potted plant, wall art, and a black wall lamp in a neutral decor theme — Source: @nestled.in.whitedesign via Instagram

A minimalist home office with a white desk, open laptop, blue chair with a fur throw, and four framed sketches on the wall — Source: @4mydesign via Instagram

Home workspace with a white desk, computer, and printer; two framed photos of children on the wall and two potted plants on each side — Source: @_thegardnerhaus via Instagram

Home office with a white desk, chair, computer, and lamps; shelves with decor above, framed photos on the wall, and storage cubes nearby — Source: @homedesignbyjill via Instagram

17. Install Functional Wall Shelves

When it comes to setting up a productive home office, it pays to think small. If you’re operating out of a room or space with limited square footage, maximizing every inch of vertical space can be key. Investing in wall shelves is an excellent way to achieve this purpose and also add decoration at the same time.

Choose brightly colored containers that fit on the shelves, so all the supplies and documents you need stay organized and accessible. Adding items such as lamps, book stands, and hanging plants is also a great way to spruce up and individualize your workspace without taking up too much floor space.

Cozy home office with a wooden desk, computer, and decor on shelves; a small mirror and plants add charm to the brick wall backdrop — Source: @no_excuse_needed via Instagram

Cozy home office with a desk, chair, computer, bookshelves, plants, and a circular rug; large window with curtains and pendant light — Source: @crooked_little_house via Instagram

Modern home office with a sleek black desk, gold accents, bookshelves, decorative items, large window, and a chair — Source: @inhance_interiors via Instagram

Modern home office under stairs with a desk, computer, printer, chair, and shelves with decor; bright window reflections on the screen — Source: @myinteriorstylist_official via Instagram

Modern desk setup with monitor, laptop, tablet, keyboard, mouse, and speakers; shelves with decor on white wall background — Source: @byhakee via Instagram

A cozy workspace with wooden shelves, books, decor, and a chair set within a teal-painted arched alcove — Source: @studioshamshiri via Instagram

Bright home office with a desk under a skylight, featuring a laptop, chair, plants, lamp, and organized office supplies — Source: @happybeams via Instagram

18. Embrace the L-Shaped Desk

L-shaped desk offers generous surface space while taking up minimal room, giving you the opportunity to customize and declutter your workspace.

Additionally, its corner design creates a designated workspace and allows any other supply storage items to be tucked in neatly behind or beside it. Best of all, if you live in a tighter space, you can use this style of the desk without compromising too much of your overall living area.

Modern office with a white desk, computer, bookshelves, and neutral decor. Two stools are positioned in front of the desk — Source: @thedesignashram via Instagram

19. Monochrome Magic: A Sleek Home Office

If you’re looking for inspired small home office ideas, consider a monochromatic black-and-white design with splashes of wood. This stylish fusion invokes a sense of serenity and elegance while remaining minimalistic enough to fit just about any room size.

Paint the walls a clean shade of white and make use of an oversized wall clock as a statement piece. Adding further visual interest, choose furniture pieces in either warm woods or black matte finishes, then finish off your look with sleek metallic accents. With this color palette, you can’t go wrong!

Wooden desk with black chair, lamp, plant, decor items, and stationary. Framed quote says, "Home is Wherever I'm with You" — Source: @dk_studioarch via Instagram

A modern home office with a black desk, chair, computer, desk lamp, and wall decor, featuring grey textured and black walls for added contrast — Source: @homesweethome_33 via Instagram

Home office with a wooden desk, computer setup, microphone, and gaming chair; large window with a view of buildings in the background — Source: @kennethmedeirosdesign via Instagram

Minimalist office with a desk, chair, and bookshelf. Large windows, hanging lamp, and decoration items create a modern atmosphere — Source: @threehfurniture via Instagram

Dual-monitor setup on a wooden desk with keyboard and speakers, guitar nearby, and hexagonal wall lights above — Source: @mrisad via Instagram

Minimalistic home office with a gray sofa, wooden desk, black chair, and floor lamp. Curtains frame a large window, illuminating the space — Source: @dominikabodenko via Instagram

Modern room with a bed, desk, chair, wall shelves, and hanging lights; cozy decor includes plants and a "Home" sign on the wall — Source: @dk_studioarch via Instagram

Chic home office with a gold-accented desk, laptop, books, striped chair, and closet full of clothes; walls adorned with framed quotes — Source: @ljwhomedesign via Instagram

20. Embrace the Shabby Chic Style

If you are looking to spruce up your home office, shabby chic is a great way to go. Think of using classic tones and a hint of rustic. For example, create shiplap walls with a white-washed desk for the ultimate chic effect.

You could also paint delicate accents around the walls and incorporate stylish decor pieces for an inviting atmosphere that you can work in comfortably. Soft lighting would bring out the charm perfectly.

Cozy home office with a wicker chair, sheepskin rug, and laptop on a dark desk; shelves and wall decor create a warm, inviting space — Source: @bloomingdiyer via Instagram

Home office with modern decor, abstract painting, and navy built-in shelves featuring a large chandelier above the central desk — Source: @frankelbuildinggroup via Instagram

A stylish home office with a dark wood desk, globe, and books, complemented by a modern chandelier, cabinet, and large windows on a white rug — Source: @greendoorhomestaging via Instagram

Home office with a wooden desk, globe, lamp, and notebook: Three world map frames on the wall and a shelf with books and decor items — Source: @greendoorhomestaging via Instagram

21. Try Accent Wall Trimming

Consider dedicating an entire wall to a feature, such as an accent wall trimming, for additional inspiration and visual intrigue. An accent wall will embellish your workspace with color or pattern and add an interesting dynamic to the layout of the room.

Think outside of the traditional desk setup – keep it fun and childlike with sturdy chairs and wiggle cushions to help stoke creativity while at work! Overall, small home offices are all about finding inventive ways to make your workspace comfortable and reflective of your personality.

Minimalist home office with a dark-paneled accent wall, world map, wooden desk, beige chair, pendant light, and sideboard — Source: @maggies_makeovers_ via Instagram

Small home office with a wooden desk, chair, computer, plant, framed picture, shelf, and baskets on a light-patterned rug — Source: @tara_st.louis via Instagram

A modern office with a wooden desk, beige chair, built-in shelves, geometric light fixture, and large windows with dark shutters — Source: @frankelbuildinggroup via Instagram

22. Throw an Area Rug

Creating a home office that is also relatively small can be a bit of a challenge, however, there are many great ideas to help maximize the space you have. One such example is a desk with an area rug below it – this helps create the illusion of more space while also creating an inviting aesthetic.

From there, select pieces of furniture and decorations that serve multiple purposes such as shelves for books, but also that double as decor. Lastly, don’t forget to make sure your office space has adequate natural light and plenty of air circulation which will help to increase productivity.

Minimalist home office featuring a wooden desk, laptop, wall art, and built-in shelves with bright lighting and natural wood flooring — Source: @s3interiordesign via Instagram

Bright home office with a white desk, wicker chair, colorful rug, shelf, and hanging lamp; decor includes plants and framed art — Source: @kellyvonweberinteriors via Instagram

23. Illuminate Your Space with a Wall Mounted Desk Light

Having an office desk with a wall mounted desk light is one excellent way to save on desk space, allowing for more seating or mediums in which to work.

Think about repurposing items such as bookshelves and dressers to create multifunctional storage and organization options. Utilizing blank walls for inspiration boards will help keep your space open, but also be helpful in consolidating and organizing ideas that might otherwise be scattered around your workspace.

Minimalist desk setup with a computer, keyboard, lamp, and plant featuring a sign that says "WORK HARD PLAY HARDER" on a wood desk against a gray paneled wall — Source: @sheehyshed via Instagram

24. Dive into Gold & White Home Office Decor

If you’re looking for the perfect home office space, why not get inspired by a gold and white theme? A light, neutral wall color like off-white will help to keep your productive energy levels high.

Try something unique by adding in gold accents like desk and lamp fixtures, or look for decorative storage solutions like woven baskets or open shelving made of natural wood. Adding more personality can be achieved through potted plants, framed artwork, and colorful rugs.

Modern office with a sleek desk, two white chairs, geometric wall art, and a light accent wall with gold lines — Source: @studio_1_ten via Instagram

26. Infuse Your Space with Scandinavian Style

Scandinavian decor is kept minimal and airy with natural materials like wood, metal, and cotton dominating; neutral colors like greys, whites, and beiges provide a calming background when it’s time to get to work. Utilizing decluttering techniques can also maximize the aesthetics of your space; look for multipurpose furnishings like laptop desks that double as storage units or floating shelves that take up minimal space and store paperwork and have multi-tasking abilities.

Finally, bringing in some green plants not only freshens up the room but also improves air quality so you can breathe easily while working hard.

Cozy bedroom with a wooden desk, chair, and shelves. A window with plants and a blanket-covered bed add warmth to the minimalist decor — Source: @blackandmilk via Instagram

Cozy corner office with a wooden desk, lamp, laptop, and framed artwork. A chair with a blue blanket sits against a window with blinds — Source: @house_in_the_woods_1913 via Instagram

A cozy home office with two brown chairs, a computer on a wooden desk, plants, wall tapestry, and a large window with shutters — Source: @humble_t_abode via Instagram

Minimalist workspace with a white desk, chair, wooden shelves, and a 2020 calendar on the wall, situated near a staircase — Source: @justalittlebigger via Instagram

A home office with a brown chair, desk, computer monitor, plants, wall clock, and whiteboard; light wood floor and glass-paneled door — Source: @karen.lao via Instagram

27. Discover the Recessed Office Desk

If you’re looking for a creative way to turn a small room into a home office, consider adding a recessed office desk. This is essentially an area near the wall that has been built out and provides you with the perfect-sized workspace for any project.

You can find DIY instructions online if you’re feeling crafty or hire a professional to ensure that the job is done properly. Either way, having an effective home workspace in your small living space will help minimize stress and make working from home more enjoyable!

Minimalist workspace with a computer, gray chair, and a black lamp on a white desk against a blue wall, large windows on the right — Source: @t.house.com.au via Instagram

FAQs

Which paint colors are best for a home office?

Most designers recommend off-white or beige walls for an office space. White walls are simple and easy to decorate around. But any neutral shade will do in most cases.

The industry your work in may play a role in the ideal wall color for your home office. For example, creative industries tend to embrace far more eclectic design choices than more traditional industries.

At the end of the day, you are the one spending the most time in your home office space. Unless you take frequent video calls or see in-home clients, you can technically paint your office walls any color you like!

Where is the best location for a home office?

Ideally, your home office should be in a separate area rather than in the middle of your main living space. A guest bedroom or even closet can be easily transformed into a cozy office nook.

Try to keep your workspace away from living areas meant for relaxation. For example, a home office should only be placed in a master bedroom if there is no other option available.