As a writer and former editor at Lonny, one of our favorite online destinations for all things interiors, Shelby Wax had worked at every type of desk imaginable from traditional work environments to coffee shops.  It wasn’t until the pandemic hit, however, that she realized the importance of carving out a dedicated space to make working from home feel more intentional.  At first, Shelby set up at her dining room table but that made navigating mealtime and communal space with her roommates tricky.

When Shelby moved into a larger apartment in Brooklyn this spring she was excited to create a dedicated space in order to write and edit.  Starting with a blank slate, Shelby knew she wanted to incorporate her WFH area into her new bedroom without it feeling like an afterthought.  The two areas needed to complement each other.

For a little guidance, Shelby worked with us to help achieve her goal.  She filled out a questionnaire, measured her space and provided inspiration. She chatted with her designer online and shared ideas and goals.

The result?  A bright, airy, and stylish work from home space and some great new bedding too thanks to some incredible finds from Bed Bath & Beyond.

Shelby’s Bedroom and Work-From-Home Area

Shelby’s new apartment has such incredible light so her designer wanted to keep the bedroom and work-from-home area bright and fresh.  Natural textures, a neutral palette and a few cozy textiles helped create a space that is both productive and relaxing.  It feels like a world away from the bustling streets of Brooklyn below.

It was important to remember that, first and foremost, the space is Shelbys bedroom which meant that her designer needed to create a comfortable space to promote rest and relaxation.  To start, bedding from Bed Bath & Beyond’s new Nestwell line laid a cozy foundation.  Clay-hued organic cotton sheets were then layered with a crisp white linen duvet cover, topped with a textured matelassé blanket.  The neutral linen headboard was the finishing touch on the natural, earthy combination.

Shelby’s Favorite Design Elements

Shelby’s favorite part of the design is the amazing temporary wallpaper.  It adds so much personality to the space without being overwhelming.  The taupe hue brings warmth, while the geometric design adds fun texture and pattern.  The repeating pattern adds dimension and makes the ceilings feel higher, drawing the eye up.

Temporary wallpaper is a great option to protect your walls with an easy peel-and-stick adhesive, making it a great choice for rentals.

Personal Touches in the Work-From-Home Area

It was important that Shelby have a dedicated area for her home office, even if it is right next to her bed.  Her designer opted for a neutral rug to define the area and a classic wooden desk to anchor the design.  A plush sheepskin rug thrown across the back of the wishbone chair instantly elevates the look.

Shelby’s own artwork was a perfect addition.  The terracotta tones echo the bedding and desk accessories, tying the space together and making the office feel complete.

Elevating the Work-From-Home Space

To inject some personality into the WFH space and elevate the simple, timeless desk and chair, Shelby’s designer added in a bit of greenery, touches of gold in the pen and scissors and an earthy vase filled with natural, zero-maintenance pampas grass.

Lighting was another crucial design element as the desk light also serves as Shelby’s bedside lamp!  The rattan lamp mirrors the natural elements throughout the room, pulling in neutral texture.

The result?  A bedroom and work-from-home space that feels inspiring and intentional.

Summary

• What inspired Shelby to create a dedicated work-from-home space?
  Shelby realized the importance of carving out a dedicated space to work from home more intentionally when the pandemic hit. Initially setting up at her dining room table made navigating mealtime and communal space with her roommates tricky.
• How did Shelby incorporate her work-from-home area into her new bedroom?
  Shelby worked with us to achieve her goal of incorporating the work-from-home area into her new bedroom without it feeling like an afterthought. They focused on bright and fresh designs, natural textures, a neutral palette, and cozy textiles to create a productive and relaxing space.
• What are some of Shelby’s favorite design elements in her new space?
  Shelby’s favorite design element is the temporary wallpaper that adds personality without being overwhelming. She also loves the neutral rug, wooden desk, plush sheepskin rug, and her own artwork that tie the space together and elevate the home office area.
• How did Shelby’s designer elevate the work-from-home space?
  Shelby’s designer added greenery, touches of gold in accessories, an earthy vase with pampas grass, and a rattan lamp to mirror the natural elements in the room. Lighting was also crucial, as the desk light serves as Shelby’s bedside lamp, creating a cohesive and inspiring space.