What to know before you choose desks
Your WFH setup deserves an upgrade. But desks aren’t just for work—they’re for creating, organizing, and getting inspired. A great desk helps you stay focused, whether you're managing your inbox or sketching out your next big idea.
Look for surface space that suits your workflow, plus drawers or shelves for stashing the not-so-pretty stuff. If you’re working with a small area, wall-mounted or ladder-style desks are your best friend. And if you’ve got the room? Go bold with a vintage-inspired executive desk or something sculptural.
No matter your setup, your desk should reflect your personality—and make sitting down to work (or standing up if standing desks are your thing) feel like a moment you actually look forward to.
How do you select a color palette for japandi desks?
Choosing the right color palette for your is an exciting (and fun!) process. Incorporating color (or the lack thereof) into a space will dramatically influence the mood and aesthetic. While it may be tempting to hit up your local hardware store to buy a gallon (or two or three) of paint, and go to town, the planning process is an important step. No one wants to repaint a room once the furniture is in. So, here’s the best way to think about incorporating color into your space:
First, set the mood: Before deciding on your color palette, think about the mood or atmosphere you want to create in your . Yearning for a calm and serene environment? Or perhaps a vibrant burst of energy? Different colors evoke different emotions, so choose hues that align with the desired mood or vibe of the room. Warm-toned colors (reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks) can make a space feel warm, inviting, and cozy. Cool-toned colors (greens, blues, purples, grays, and most whites) can make a room feel grounded, calming, and clean. But, using too many warm colors can make a room feel closed off, and too many cool tones in one room can make a space feel cold and unwelcoming. Neutral colors (blacks, whites, and browns) add a sense of sophistication and professionalism to a space.
Then, choose a color scheme: Now for the fun part! Once you’ve selected the mood, you can start to build your color palette. Take into account existing furniture and decor elements. Choose colors that complement or skillfully contrast your furnishings to create a cohesive look. A handy tip to a cohesive color story? Use the 60-30-10 rule as your guide. The dominant color (60%) sets the tone, the secondary color (30%) adds depth, and the accent color (10%) brings a pop of interest. Your dominant color in your color palette may be the color you choose to paint your walls or the color of a large area rug. Your secondary color may be used for upholstery or statement furniture. And for that final touch, the accent color brings a spark and is usually found in artworks, cushions, or decorative pieces. If you’re going for a monochromatic color scheme, consider the 60-30-10 rule in terms of shades of color.
Finally, find balance and contrast: Once you’re ready to start applying color in the design with paint or decorative touches, achieving the right balance between colors in your color palette is crucial. Consider the visual weight of each color and distribute them evenly throughout the space. Neutral colors are often paired with brighter accent colors to contrast a space. Pairing complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel) or juxtaposing shades of light and dark can enrich your design with depth and complexity.
While some colors are more popular than others for certain rooms or design styles, pick a color palette that feels right to you. Interior design is all about self expression. You do you. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to express your unique style. Want more interior design color tips? Check out our free online interior design course on Color Theory.
Understanding the color wheel: gold
Gold is a symbol of luxury and warmth and can add a sense of opulence and refined glamor to any . You’ll find gold elements across all design styles. Gold typically takes center stage in art deco and glam spaces. Here’s how to tastefully incorporate this radiant hue into your decor, ensuring your interiors dazzle.
Gold comes in various shades, from soft, champagne golds to rich, deep bronzes. Lighter golds can add a subtle shimmer and enhance the lightness of a room, while darker golds lend a more pronounced sense of luxury and depth.
Gold makes a significant impact even in small doses. Use gold accents like picture frames, light fixtures, decorative objects, or hardware to inject a luxurious feel into the room without overwhelming. Brass is the most traditional gold metal to use in interior design. Lacquered brass will stay bright and shiny, while unlacquered brass will patina and dull over time, and brushed brass will maintain its matte appearance. A matte gold finish can offer sophistication and subtlety, while a polished, shiny gold reflects light and adds drama.
Gold pairs beautifully with a wide range of colors. For a classic and elegant look, combine gold with dark hues like navy or black. For a softer, more romantic vibe, pair gold with pastel shades like blush pink or soft lavender. To keep the design from feeling too ostentatious, balance gold elements with neutral tones like white, cream, or soft gray. Don't shy away from mixing gold with other metals. A combination of gold, silver, and bronze can create a rich, layered look that adds depth and interest to your decor.
Gold accents in wallpaper or patterned decor can add an element of luxury without the need for actual gold objects. Look for wallpapers with gold veins or patterns that incorporate gold tones.
How do you pick a design style for a gold desks makeover?
Picking an interior design style for your is a personal and immersive journey. It starts with introspection and an exploration of your aesthetic preferences, daily habits, and the overall ambiance you wish to create. We recommend the style match nicely with the rest of your house. Consider the architecture of your home, the flow of natural light, and how the space is used to ensure the design style not only looks appealing but also serves your needs effectively. The goal is to create a space that feels inviting, comfortable, and uniquely “you”.
There is no right or wrong way to define your style. Start by gathering ideas and inspiration. Identify what colors, moods, and materials you are drawn to. Are you drawn to the clean lines of modern design? The warmth of rustic charm? The rich textures of bohemian flair? Or the sleek functionality of minimalism? Your chosen style should resonate with your personality and make your space feel like a true extension of yourself.
There are dozens of design styles. One style may speak to you the most and you’ll be ready to go all in (do it!). If not, mixing elements from different styles can yield a unique, eclectic look that’s distinctly yours. Need some help defining your style? We created our own design style quiz to help you learn more about what you gravitate towards in design. The result is like the perfect blend of your personality and home. Take the quiz and your Spoak Sign be your inspiration.
Once you know the design style you want to achieve for your makeover, the fun begins! You can start planning out your color scheme and decor ideas.
All about japandi design
The Japandi style is a harmonious blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality, emerging as a distinct and popular design trend that emphasizes simplicity, natural elements, and comfort. This style combines the best of both worlds: the Japanese aesthetic principle of 'wabi-sabi', which finds beauty in imperfection and transience, and the Scandinavian 'hygge', which encapsulates a cozy and contented quality of life. Every object in a Japandi space has a purpose, reflecting a thoughtful approach to interior design.
To achieve a Japandi, you'll want to choose a muted color palette, consisting of soft neutrals complemented by earthy tones, creating a serene and calming atmosphere. Japandi furniture is characterized by its simplicity and emphasis on natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and stone, reflecting a deep respect for nature inherent in both cultures. Japandi textiles are minimal yet textured, adding warmth without clutter. Keep your decorative accents to a minimum, with a focus on artisanal and handmade items that tell a story or connect with nature.
Indoor plants and natural light are pivotal in Japandi interiors, enhancing the connection to the natural world and promoting a sense of wellbeing. The Japandi style is more than just a design trend; it's a lifestyle choice that values simplicity, sustainability, and harmony, making it a profoundly appealing aesthetic for contemporary living spaces.