The Way We Work: Cocoon Home Design

With the help of these images and this room inspiration, our home office has taken on the look and feel I was hoping for.   Now, the workspace that Alex and I share is both functional and comfortable.  Here are some more shots and, also, tips on creating or renovating your very own home office.

9 tips for creating an organized home office space with a personal touch: 

1.  Layer your lighting between task lamps and ceiling fixtures.

2.  Find the right chair/s for both comfort and style.

3.  Thread computer wires through drilled holes in your desk tops.

4.  Use trays, folders and/or clipboards to store mail and organize paperwork.

5.  Always have a plant, big or small, in the space.

6.  Surround yourself with images and/or objects that inspire you, but strive to keep the area uncluttered.

7.  Place a candle nearby with your favorite scent for a relaxing effect.

8.  Do have extra seating for a visiting friend, client or coworker.  This could even be a stool that doubles as an additional surface for magazines or books.

9.  Ensure your desk is at the ready with pens, pencils, paper, chargers and a glass [or two] of water.

Room Inspiration: Our Home Office

Borrowing ideas from these 7 images, I put together this room inspiration for our home office makeover [which is almost finished].  The new look combines metals, textures and colors from different eras.  The walls have been painted a metallic gold, the cabinet hardware has been replaced, a graphic rug has been added and two vintage leather & chrome chairs flank the built-in desk.  I'm anxious to show it all to you, but we're still deciding on a few key details.  The new look has already proven to be a productive and inspiring workspace for both Alex and me.  Stay tuned for the big reveal.

Have you made any home improvements lately?

Images: light, mural, rug, drawer pull, desk, and chair

The Way We Work: Holly Bender Interiors

Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with Holly Bender of Holly Bender Interiors here in Lafayette, CA.  During my visit we talked about design while I shopped her collection of art and vintage finds.  I found a perfect piece for my office AND I got to photograph her home office as well.  By combining lucite, mixed metals and patterns, pops of color and vintage [one of kind] pieces Holly created a work space that is sophisticated,  glamourous and functional.  Take a look:

To see more of her work click here.

Thank you, Holly, for sharing your inviting work space with Cocoon Home Blog readers.

7 Inspiring Home Office Spaces

Last week I decided to renovate our home office space.  We tore up the rug, took down the built-in cabinetry and carefully removed the redwood panels that lined the walls. At present, it's a pretty raw space and my mind is teeming with ideas inspired by the these images, this pin and these chairs.

Which images speak to you?

Images: 1./2./3./4./5./6./7.

The Way We Work: Vera Abud Interiors

It's with great pleasure that I share with you the atelier of interior stylist Vera Abud.  I've admired her style and approach to design and styling for a long time and am excited that she is now offering her talents to many through Vera Abud Interiors.  While visiting her and her family in CT,  we had the chance to talk about her new venture and to photograph her work space.  I love the way she combined Moroccan textiles, cowhides and brass accents to honor both traditional and modern design.

During our time together she showed me a project she's currently working on.  Needless to say, I brought my camera along so that I can show you what she's up to for future posts.  In the mean time, take a look at a past project here.  I'm sure you'll be hearing more about her.