The term “home study” isn’t one that enters our daily vocabulary too much. The phrase conjures up pictures of old, gothic manors and murder mysteries, making it seem like an antiquated space to leave in your home. But a study room has plenty to offer the modern, sophisticated home designer.
Our tips for designing a sophisticated study room in your home will help you make the most of this type of space in your house.
What Is a Study?
The “home study room” hints at the room’s purpose. This is a room dedicated to quiet activities like reading and paperwork.
The terms “study” and “home office” are often used interchangeably. While offices are usually more focused on work-related productivity, a study is usually associated with personal pursuits. What pursuits you choose will determine how to design the perfect study room.
Determine Your Purpose
People choose to add a home study to a space for various purposes. A few common activities people use their studies for include:
- Reading
- Personal research
- Novel writing
- Artistic projects
- Sewing
- Graduate work
What you use the study for will determine many of your design elements. If you intend to use the room for research, you will want to emphasize ergonomic seating and desk space. If you’re going to use the room for reading and relaxation, your seating choices will be based on personal comfort.
Get Practical With Storage
Whatever you’re using your home study room for, you will likely need storage space, whether for books, paperwork, or art supplies. And for your space to be functional and not uncomfortably cluttered, you will want ample storage for your belongings.
How to tackle storage will also depend on your purposes. Those designing reading nooks should focus their attention on sufficient bookshelf space. For other purposes, practical storage may rely on having a large desk with multiple drawers, file cabinets, or various bins for art supplies.
Add Personal Flourishes
As mentioned, a study should be a space for your personal pursuits, so designing one should include places where your personality can shine through. Here are a few design ideas to consider for your home study room:
- Embrace minimalism to promote a clear headspace
- Nod toward traditional studies with vintage furniture, art, and woodwork
- Represent your past accomplishments with award cabinets or photos
- If you use your space for research, frame and display reference maps or charts
The key to study décor is balancing productivity with expression. For example, if you love bright colors and vibrant designs but don’t want to completely cover the room in colors, you may consider creating a tape-patterned accent wall on one side and focus on neutral colors for the rest of the space.