Enterprising Moms Network Inc

Blog post courtesy of Dara Wyton, Chapter Director EMN Sunshine Coast & owner Dara Wyton Design.

Ladies this is not your husband’s office, a shared space, a nook in the corner, or a kid friendly den.  This is an office devoted to you and you only!  You are one of a number of women working from home or running a successful business - your office should leave you motivated and inspired.

Every woman needs a space of her own.  Going to work every morning can be a delight when you have a chic and efficient space.  Devote one room to you and make it multipurpose - this space can be an office, den, and cozy escape from the hectic world.  Think outside the box and make it as unique as you are because your oasis does not have to follow the standard rules of office space. Skip the institutional-looking furniture and coordinate with your décor.

In this glamorous yet elegant office, we took a number of beautiful furniture pieces and made them efficient and functional. The skirted parson chair was transformed with four basic casters into a beautiful and comfy office chair. The striking bureau was refinished and put to use as an elegant storage cabinet. A cozy nook in which to relax and unwind was created with the placement of a graceful chaise lounge in the corner. This room has been streamlined with highly functional items and minimal clutter, creating an office sanctuary with a feeling of leisureliness.

A variety of light levels can establish different moods while still providing enough light to work by. Here, a seductive chandelier was added to enhance the glamour as well as providing plenty of light as it sparkles off the gloss ceiling. We also placed stunning table lamps around the room so the mood could be brought down to a more intimate level for reading or sipping a glass of wine in the evening.

Here are a few do’s and don’ts for a perfect office: Do give yourself plenty of storage because the last thing you want is to feel overwhelmed in your fantastic space. Don't ever use florescent lighting; it is harsh light that will only give you a headache. Do use colors and finishes that reflect your personality- this room is for you and you only! Don't let your office become the storage room. Do splurge on a feature you love, whether it is the lighting fixture or the drapery treatment, which will make your office that much more special.

Ladies, do not sell yourself short-you deserve a space of your own!