We recently explored how homeowners are adding more function and purpose to kitchen islands. This inspired a discussion about what you shouldn’t use a kitchen island for that people often ignore. Working from home in this commonly shared, high-traffic area is a top concern.
Decades of research back this up. Dedicated workspaces create proper, low-distraction conditions for better quality results. Most importantly, they contain and organize the stuff we need to sustain flows and routines. Including built-ins for your home office, no matter the size, is a choice that pays off big-time. Here’s what we’re installing for 2026.
One-wall offices create multifunctional spaces.
Sometimes, we just don’t have an extra room to convert to an office. Less-populated areas like breezeways or hallways are an option, and take just one wall. Use every inch to design floor-to-ceiling custom cabinets and shelving. It adds real architectural value and character to a property.
Custom-crafted features like this are a massive design wish for prospective homeowners in 2026.
Bespoke organization.
Professions demanding a certain degree of accuracy or precision require specific organizational solutions. Custom drawer and hidden compartments to accommodate supplies create efficiency. Owners spend less time spent tidying up afterward. More remote workers are eyeing work-life balance even as they toil from the comfort of their homes, and the details that eat into their time matter.
In-drawer outlets, custom cable management, and other practical solutions are also a hot topic for home office remodels.
Natural materials and color palettes.
The popularity of biophilic design is winding its way like a vine into home offices everywhere. An increasing preference for natural materials and earth-inspired tones follows. Warm leather and grainy wood complement one another without much need for additional décor.
For a more feminine take on biophilic design, arched crowns atop built-ins and dirty neutral paint keep it organic, just with smoother edges.
Stone countertops for workspaces.
Built-ins with counters provide premium placement for hardworking stone tops. No more worries of coffee rings on wood or devices scraping laminate. Materials such as quartz and granite work even harder in home offices, where they aren’t subject to hot pans or standing moisture.
It’s a touch of highly durable luxury to add style and ease to everyday tasks.
Open shelving and flexible storage.
Custom shelving that combines closed and open storage is ideal. Conceal files while displaying books, décor, and other aesthetic items. More virtual employees want the ability to scale the configuration as needed, which is where custom flexible storage comes in.
A combination of low-profile, under-desk storage, open shelving, and cubbies that can switch from closed to open storage on a whim supports dynamic professions.
Custom cloffices.
Should you convert that guest room to an office or a walk-in closet? Why not both? There’s little off the table with a custom closet remodel, and that includes factoring in the home office.
Built-in desk spaces blend seamlessly with tailored systems. With shelving and drawers aplenty, storage is never an issue. A designer can help you devise work zones within a stylish wardrobe solution.
Build something better with The Designery.
Home offices are underrated as personal spaces. They’re areas where our habits, creativity, and livelihood meet. It’s important to set ourselves up for success, but also to get the aesthetic results our properties deserve.
Don’t shove a desk against the wall and call it a day. And definitely don’t struggle to assemble shaky mass-market bookshelves on your own. Invest in a home office that serves (and grows) your whole career. Durable countertops, custom cabinetry and hardware, and even top-quality flooring that supports your life’s work.
“We were referred to The Designery to update our pantry and mudroom, and we couldn’t be happier with the results…They communicated clearly about timing, worked efficiently, and left everything spotless when finished. We were so thrilled with the outcome that we asked the team to also update our office. The Designery truly exceeded our expectations from start to finish!”
Kimberly, Designery client
Ready to level up, personally and professionally? Give The Designery a call at (877) 464-4766 or find your local showroom.
Home office design FAQ
How much does it cost to build a home office?
This depends on the size of your space and level of customization. If you are looking to convert a corner of your living room to an office, it can cost as little as $300 for a desk, chair, and a little storage.
Converting a guest room to a home office, complete with custom-built-in shelving and storage, is an investment! The cost depends on the materials you use, as well as whether you switch up features like paint and flooring.
What is the best countertop for a desk?
Engineered quartz is the best countertop for a desk due to its extreme durability and superior scratch resistance, especially compared to wood. It also offers control over the look of the desktop since a wide range of patterns and colors are available.
Natural stone like granite can offer a sophisticated, luxurious look to an otherwise average desk.
Working with a designer and craftsperson for a custom result is usually necessary to ensure structural integrity. A custom stone countertop for a desk or built-in counter can last generations when done right.
What are some common home office design mistakes?
Inefficient storage, poor lighting, and crowded workstations are the most common home office design issues we see.
The beauty of customizing your own home office is that the space is tailored to your belongings and workflows. Even small spaces with little to no natural light, like a cloffice, can be optimized to support productivity and wellbeing at the same time.
Which room is best for a home office?
If you have a guest room or otherwise unoccupied space, it’s always worth using it as an office. However, The Designery has broad experience in planning and installing work-from-home zones practically anywhere, from finished basements and attics to custom closets and laundry rooms.