When we bought this 1952 farmhouse inBirminghamabout a decade ago, we had different priorities.
Because our kids were still little, we were less concerned about decorating than managing the chaos of childhood.
We occasionally talked about fixing it up, but other things always took precedence.
Credit:Sid Evans
Sid Evans
Then the pandemic hit.
Suddenly I was working from home all the time and setting up a computer in our dining room.
I started thinking about how nice that space could be as an office.
Credit:Sid Evans
First, she had a few questions for me.
What did I need the space for?
What time of day did I want to use it?
And how did I want it to feel (bright and airy or moody and compelling)?
Once Id answered those, the room came into focus.
We started with a mid-century desk we found on First Dibs, and Fran used that as a centerpiece.
She suggested a light, textured wallpaper and a dark trim, which immediately transformed the space.
Lessons I Learned From This Project
1.
Fran understood that I wanted something comfortable without being too stuffy or traditional.
She also proposed a layout that made sense, with shelving on one wall and seating on the other.
Antique stores and estate sales can also be great sources.
Fran suggested some modular shelving from West Elm, which was very functional but not terribly expensive.
I also love that it brought a little modern contrast to a pretty traditional space.
Ive loved having a low-maintenance ficus in my office, and Im also fond of succulents.
If nothing else, watering your plants is a great way to procrastinate when you need a break!
