The Write Stuff

I’m not a big fan of bringing work into a bedroom. As a designer, I believe the two spaces should be kept separate, making your master bedroom a place of serenity and relaxation only. Yet, I also understand that due to space limitations in your home, and/or the fact that you need to stay connected via e-mail for work reasons, this is not always a realistic expectation.

If you absolutely need to have a desk in your master bedroom, then the focus needs to shift to creating a beautiful writing desk similar to those you see in a hotel suite. By doing so, you have a functional piece of furniture that also fits in with the bedroom decor.

Nowadays, with flat-screen monitors and wireless laptops, it’s easier to use a smaller table surface as a writing desk, so think about using console tables, shopping at antique stores and even garage sales for unique pieces of furniture that can function as a desk. Think outside the box! The goal is to make the piece stand on its own without resembling a traditional “office” desk.

Keep in mind that the chair you choose is just as important. You can use an elegant upholstered chair or a dining room armchair to function as a desk chair. Incorporate task lighting through a table lamp, and add decorative boxes on the surface to store office supplies, like envelopes, stamps, etc. The final tip is to place a framed photo of the family, favorite vacation destination or beloved pet to personalize the writing desk further.

For many of us, I know it’s hard not to bring work home, but if you must do so, then make it a point to create a work area that is an extension of home decor and reflects your personality. Keeping the concept of a writing desk in mind is the way to go!