THE HOME OFFICE More than ever before, the business of the day is happening within our own four walls and if that’s the case with you, the last thing you want to be faced with is a dusty old shelf full of battered box files, with a filing cabinet that looks like a remnant from the 1950s. Of course, you have to start with the functional stuff – equipment, technology, storage and so on – but what makes a good home office a pleasing place to work in is largely down to the aesthetic environment. A sense of calm is all-important (though not always possible where kids are present!) and a minimalist décor can remove those unnecessary distractions that can cause difficulty while working. This space is a working environment so it should feel separate to other rooms and for the same reason, you can afford to take a few risks. Exposed brickwork is not for the faint-hearted but in a space such as this that is for your eyes only, why not go for edgy, with a bit of rough storage to match – all complemented by a no expense-spared comfy chair to make working a pleasure. “Try and create a space with good light to maintain your focus on gloomy days,” says Rebecca Leivars. But remember to include the personal touch, such as family photos and mementoes.