7 ways to smarten up your study

last updated 11 May 2022

study room with white wall and wooden table with chair

Walk the line

Add character to understated furniture with a simple dip dye effect. Start by wiping down the surface you want to paint, then seal it with masking tape for a crisp line. Next, prime the wood, and paint in an Eggshell finish up to the border.

Tipped writing desk, £950; for a similar unpainted chair, try the J104, £153; both Folklore Design

study room with wooden flooring and twin brown rolling chairs

Double trouble

If your study needs to make room enough for two, opt for a symmetrical scheme like the one above. Chairs, lamps and shelving have been twinned for a fuss-free solution, whilst artworks and vintage cameras add a creative feel.

Bestå Burs desk, £200, Ikea; for similar chairs, try the Evergreen in Walnut and Cream, £69.99 each, Atlantic Shopping

study room with wooden bookshelves wooden table and chair

Simple scheme

De-stress your home office with a neutral palette and a focus on natural materials. Elm and beech furniture have a pared-back look, whilst monochrome accessories keep it feeling fuss free.

Plank table, £803, Ercol range, Nest.co.uk

study room with blue and white wall and study desk

Feeling blue

Bring order to a compact space with a tiered design in a soothing palette of grey-blue and white.
Save space with a trio of pretty pinboards and a discreet floating shelf.

For a similar paint, try the Plummett Estate Emulsion, £38 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

study room with bright white wall and desk with computer and chair

All white

Maximise a small space with a light-enhancing white palette. Inject simple pops of silver and black for a modern Scandi scheme, then add a personal touch with an eclectic photo wall in mis-matched frames.

Linnmon/Finnvard desk, £70, Ikea

study room with white wall and black table with white chair

Outdoor option

Need to escape the bustle of the home? Try creating a retreat in an outdoor shed or hut. This simple scheme of navy, cream and gold is instantly calming, while a full-height window means there's an abundance of fresh air and natural light – the perfect bolthole!

For a similar rug, try the jute and leather, £160, French Connection; for a similar chair, try the Penelope, from £380, Amode

study room with yellow wooden book shelf and desk and chair

Midas touch

Personalise your home office with a few clever hacks – why not add a glamourous touch with a coat of gold paint? Simply cover and seal the top and shelves with newspaper, clean and prime the legs, then spray with the gold paint, finishing off with a metal sealer. Ta-dah!

Bestå Burs desk, £200; Fjälkinge shelving unit, £115; both Ikea; sprayed in gold metallic spray paint, PlastiKote

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