Working from home might sound like a dream, until you realize your “office” is a laptop on the kitchen counter between your coffee mug and yesterday’s mail. If you’re in real estate like me, you know how important it is to have a workspace that feels both functional and pulled together. Between emails, contracts, and the occasional Zoom meeting, a well-designed home office truly makes all the difference.

I always say the vibe of your workspace matters just as much as the layout. Think natural light, cozy textures, a color palette that feels like you, and definitely a plant or two. You don’t need to plan a full-blown office renovation, I swear, even a styled-out corner can make you feel ten times more productive and clear-headed. The goal? A space that works hard but still feels like home. Okay, let’s get into how to level up your office!

Comfort Meets Chic

I learned this the hard way after months of working in a chair that looked cute but totally wrecked my posture. Trust me, when you’re writing offers or on back-to-back calls, your body will thank you for investing in a supportive, ergonomic setup. A sleek desk chair with good support can still be stylish, and nowadays, there are so many modern options that blend comfort and design beautifully.

And it’s not just about the chair. The overall flow of your setup matters more than you think. Your monitor should be at eye level, your arms should rest comfortably while typing, and your feet should be flat on the ground. Even adding a footrest or a laptop riser can make your space feel more intentional—and way easier on your body during those long email marathons and offer-prep sessions.

Style That Inspires

Don’t underestimate the power of decor. A statement lamp, custom neon sign, or even a simple diffuser can elevate the whole feel of your space. I love a cute calendar or pinboard for a mix of function and style, and I’m always rotating in a few coffee table books for inspo. Stick to neutral staples for the main pieces, and then layer in soft textures, subtle patterns, or pops of brass and marble to keep it interesting without feeling cluttered.

Your home office is basically an extension of your brand, make sure it tells the right story when someone catches a glimpse on Zoom. The goal isn’t to over-style, but to curate a vibe that feels intentional and motivating.

Aesthetic Organization Goals

When things are in their place, your brain can breathe. I like to keep my desk surfaces as clear as possible, using drawers, baskets, or wall-mounted shelves to store everything else. A rolling cart has been my secret weapon—it holds my essentials and can easily be moved or hidden away if I need the space to feel more open.

Don’t feel like everything has to be hidden, though. You can still leave out the things you use daily—just give them a home. Pretty trays, acrylic organizers, and matching bins can keep things looking intentional instead of chaotic.

Create a Hard Stop

Just because your office is a few steps from your couch doesn’t mean your work has to follow you there. One of the biggest challenges of working from home is knowing when to shut it down. Creating a designated workspace (no matter how small) helps you mentally separate “work mode” from “rest mode.”

I try to stick to “office hours,” even if they shift day to day. Lighting a candle when I start work and blowing it out at the end is my little ritual—it helps me reset. Give yourself permission to log off, close the laptop, and step away. Your future self will thank you for protecting that boundary.

xx, Farrah