Back to the Office: How to Elevate Your Workspace

Lighting sets the tone — and in any workspace, the right lamp is essential. It’s not only about visibility, but atmosphere. Choose a desk lamp that doubles as a sculptural piece, whether in brushed brass, marble, or smoked glass. These materials add depth and warmth, and their tactile quality brings richness to your desk or side table. Think beyond task lighting: add a floor lamp in a corner, or a smaller decorative light on a shelf, to create layers of illumination throughout the space. This interplay between light and shadow is what gives a room soul — making it feel considered, not merely functional. The goal? A well-lit environment that energizes you in the morning and soothes you in the evening.

Books have always been more than sources of knowledge — they are objects of beauty, culture and personal expression. In a workspace, curated coffee table books add instant depth and elegance. Stack them on your desk, display them on a shelf, or use them to anchor decorative objects.

Whether you're drawn to iconic fashion photography, architectural marvels, contemporary art, or biographies of cultural visionaries, your selection of books should reflect your passions and spark your creativity. These titles are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve as daily reminders of curiosity, ambition, and inspiration — essential ingredients in any creative or professional process.

A rug is often the missing piece in a workspace. We tend to think of it as a living room essential, but in reality, it plays an equally important role in a home office. A well-chosen rug grounds the space, defines zones, and softens the atmosphere — especially if your setup includes harder materials like wood, metal, or glass.

Opt for textures that are both luxurious and durable, such as wool blends or flat-weave cotton in neutral palettes or subtle patterns. It should feel good underfoot but also complement the aesthetic of the room. A rug instantly elevates the visual harmony of your workspace, transforming it into a place where you not only work, but also enjoy being.

Beyond functional lighting, mood lighting and scent play an emotional role in how we experience space. Scented candles in beautiful vessels bring a sense of calm and ritual to your workday. Look for fragrances with grounding notes like sandalwood, bergamot, black tea, or fig - sophisticated scents that energize without overwhelming.

Candles also act as decorative accents. A sleek candle in glass or ceramic placed on a tray or next to a book stack adds texture and elegance to your desktop. Pair them with a small, ambient lamp to create a corner of warmth and serenity - the kind of detail that makes long work hours feel softer, slower, more intentional.

Sometimes, luxury is found in the smallest things — like the weight of a porcelain cup in your hands during a mid-morning coffee. Turn this simple daily habit into a refined ritual with design-led cups and mugs. Choose from artisanal ceramics, minimalist porcelain or colored glass that reflect your style and elevate the everyday.

These pieces add a layer of comfort and familiarity to your workspace — especially when paired with a matching saucer or placed on a tray with a linen napkin. It’s these quiet moments of beauty that make a difference in how we feel at work: more grounded, more human, more ourselves.