This week I posted about getting my home office organised for 2021. With all the unknowns for the year ahead and working from home becoming the norm for so many of us, I thought there is no better time to get my crap sorted. Here’s how I approached it…

De-clutter 

My number one tip when approaching any tidy up regardless of the space is to declutter. So essentially I just got myself an empty box and chucked in everything that either should never have been in my office in the first place (i.e. kids tennis balls, an old lunch box – don’t even ask) as well as all the things I just no longer needed. So essentially, I had two piles – stuff that I didn’t need and stuff that I did! Off to a great start! 

By SetSquare Studio

Storage 

When it came to storage, paperwork was a killer for taking up so much of my space, so I went through all my paper files and scanned in what I needed to keep and saved it to back up on Evernote. Evernote allows me to scan in all my receipts, warranties etc and tag them to make them easily searchable if I ever need to access them. Of course, I kept original documents where required and just purchased some cheap folders from office works (colour coordinated of course) and labelled them accordingly. Done! I swear this task alone made all the difference! Goal for 2021 will be – go paperless 🙂  

If you still receive paper bills in the post or have notes from school either contact them and see if they have an email option (green friendly) or try a trendy paperweight. I use a beautiful amethyst crystal but you can really use any cool object. Just remember to file, scan or recycle the paper when done. I also have these cute book ends from engold that can double as paperweights or bookends depending on what I need…  how cute are they?! 

Cloud Bookends by Engold

When it comes to all those other stationary bits and bobs I am a less is more person, so personally I don’t go over the top with all the matching desk accessories as I can’t stand having them all over my working space. I need clean and fresh to work efficiently! Thus, I prefer using a simple basket that houses all my whole punch, scissors, paper clips, etc… and just hide it away in the cupboard for when I need it. 

By Ross Gardam

By Mim Design

Task Lighting

Natural light is always important – I set up my working space in front of my window but also ensure I have window treatment to control the glare when possible. Natural light definitely has the ability to affect my mood (in a positive way) so I really can’t get enough of it! When working at night I usually turn on the led strip lighting under our open shelves (which work a treat) but if that’s not an option for you, a desk lamp does the trick… PLUS they are great for styling too – so pick something that will allow the lamp to sit pretty even when it’s not in use.  Here are some of my current favs…

Left: Muuto Right: Ross Gardam

Our Redland Bay Residence

Source Unknown

Bring in some life 

Seriously I can never get enough of greenery!!! I love plants so not surprisingly I have them throughout my office not to mention watering them is a great “study break”. Draping plants on open shelves is my fav! Whilst I love fresh flowers, not a fan of dying flowers as such so I am all for dried florals. Same effect but everlasting! No faux plants here – for me anyway 🙂

By otherstudio

By Fabien Baron

Designed by Lovisa

A Soft Touch 

Ergonomics is important, as is comfort so it’s nice to add a little soft touch to the space.  An upholstered chair, stool, ottoman or simply adding a cushion or throw or sheepskin over your existing chair can do the trick! 
And who knows, maybe a comfy chair might be that final ounce of encouragement you need to finally sit down and go through all that dreadful paperwork…

Another softer touch could be the addition of a small rug – bring in a textural element and touch of fun!

By Coco Lapine Design

By Katerina Dima

Attract Inspiration 

I printed my fav instagram photos and pinned them to my board, you will also find any fabrics or wallpapers I am loving for no other reason other than they look pretty next to the school excursion notices – haha! Your desk space is also the perfect home to display your favourite collection of reads, try stacking them on some empty shelving or on the corner of your desk for a tidy addition to your desk styling. Remember working and creating is all about inspiration so surround yourself with bits and bobs that inspire you…

Happy organising 

E xx