Home office styling tips from interiors expert Tahn Scoon

Turn a makeshift space into the self-isolation office of your dreams with help from Brisbane decorating expert Tahn Scoon.

As the world takes a pause and many of us are now working from home, or supervising children’s schooling from home, it makes sense to talk about setting up a home office.

I understand not everybody has the space to have a full room as an office but in this digital age, that’s okay, I actually prefer working on my laptop while perched on my bed; it’s comfy and I have a view of the park!

However, to stay organised, we should try and set up a designated room or nook if we can, so first things first …

A vintage-style home office by Tahn Scoon. Photo: John Downs.

CARVING OUT SPACE

As mentioned, carving out space is important. If you can’t manage a full room, a nook will suffice just fine.

If nowhere instantly pops to mind, consider currently under-utilised spaces in your home, perhaps under the stairs or in the corner of a quiet room. Anywhere you can fit a small desk and a chair.

If it comes to it though, the end of the dining table will work, just ensure it stays clean and organised.

STYLING AND DECORATING

Start with the big things; your office furniture.

If mismatched pieces are collected from around the house, you can always tie them together with a coat of paint or stain.

Once the basics are sorted, add colour with inspirational images and art.

Contain visual clutter by framing it in. Gather baskets, boxes, trays and vessels to create storage.

The trick to making your accessories work is to keep them in the same colour or finish.

Top it all off with a vase full of fresh blooms. Local businesses such as That Flower Shop are responsibly delivering, or simply snip some foliage from the garden.

EDITING AND ORGANISING

Physically declutter your office by going through your paperwork and getting rid of anything you don’t need (I recently found out I don’t need tax invoices under $75 – I could have saved three shoeboxes full).

To further save space, go digital where possible.

However, be aware digital clutter can be just as overwhelming as physical, says tech expert Kiah Worling.

“My top tip is to get acquainted with the archive button in your inbox. If your inbox is clear, your mind is clear.”

Most importantly, enjoy working from home.

Look at your space with new eyes and see if there’s a sunny spot for a chair and side table. Use it as a place to take a break with a cup of tea and a book.

Rearrange rooms to suit.

It may be quieter to have the children play in the master suite or you may prefer to drag your desk into the garden.

Use your time away from the workplace to rethink and reconnect with your home.

Tahn’s work has featured in some of Australia’s most prestigious magazines and her virtual decorating consultations start at $375; ph: 0433 162 807