14 Home Office Organization Ideas That’ll Make Your Hot Mess Workspace Finally Instagram-Worthy
Working from home sounds amazing until your desk becomes a catch-all for everything from bills to phone call to kids’ art projects.
We know the struggle of trying to stay focused when our workspace looks like it was hit by a category 5 hurricane of paperwork and random office supplies.
Creating an organized home office space can boost your productivity by 50% and reduce work stress. A well-organized workspace helps us stay on track and actually enjoy our work hours instead of spending half the day searching for that one important paper that’s hiding somewhere in the chaos. Let’s get real – we’re all ready to transform our messy desk situation into something that would make Marie Kondo proud!
1) Start with a Clutter-Busting Purge!
Let’s kick off our home office makeover with the most satisfying part – getting rid of all that stuff we don’t need!
We know it feels overwhelming, but trust us, this is gonna be so worth it.
First things first – grab three boxes and label them “keep,” “donate,” and “trash.” We’re about to tackle every trouble spot in that office space like the organizing queens we are!
Those endless pens, pencils, and old business books collecting dust? Time to sort through them! We only say business that need a few good writing tools, not the entire office supply store.
Keep your eyes peeled for paper clutter – it’s sneaky! We’re talking about old receipts, random sticky notes, and those reports from 2019 that we’re definitely never going to read again. Clear those flat surfaces and keep only what sparks joy (yes, we’re channeling our inner Marie Kondo!).
Remember, we’re not just organizing – we’re creating a space where we can actually think and be productive. No judgment here – we’ve all let our home offices get a little wild sometimes!
2) Label Wires with Old Bread Tags
We’ve all been there – unplugging the wrong cord and accidentally turning off the computer in the middle of important work! Those mystery cords behind our desk can drive us crazy, but we’ve got a super simple fix using something you probably throw away.
Those little plastic tags that keep our bread bags closed are actually organizing superheroes in disguise! Using bread tags to label power cords helps us keep track of which cord goes to which device.
It’s so easy to do! Just write the name of each device on a bread tag and clip it onto its cord. Now we’ll never have to play the “which cord goes where?” game again. This trick is perfect for keeping our home office organized and saving our sanity!
Want to take it up more than a couple notch? Use different colored bread tags for different types of devices. Blue for computer stuff, green for entertainment gadgets – you get the idea! Trust us, this tiny change will make such a big difference in our daily office life.
3) Wall-Mount a Magnetic Board
Let’s talk about one of our favorite office and desk organization ideas and hacks – the magnetic board! We love using wall-mounted magnetic boards to keep our workspace tidy and our important stuff within reach.
These babies are perfect for pinning up to-do lists, calendars, and all those random sticky notes that usually end up lost in the desk shuffle. Plus, they look super cute on the wall and free up precious desk space!
Want to make your magnetic board even more fun? We recommend using cute wire baskets with chalk labels to hold supplies. They stick right to the board and keep everything organized in style.
Pro tip: When picking out your magnetic board, go for a 20-24 gauge metal sheet – it’s just right for holding magnets without being too heavy or hard to mount. Trust us, this is the sweet spot!
You can get creative with the design too! We’ve seen some amazing setups where moms use different colored magnets to organize different types of tasks or color-code family member schedules. It’s like having a command center that actually looks good on your wall!
4) Create a ‘Deal With It Later’ Drawer
Let’s be real – sometimes we just can’t handle everything right this second! That’s why we love having a dedicated drawer for those items we need to deal with… later. No judgment here – we all have those days!
Setting up a special drawer for temporary storage helps keep our desk clear while still keeping important stuff within reach. Think of it as your organized procrastination station (we’ve totally been there!).
We recommend using folders or dividers to separate different types of “later” items. Maybe one section for papers to file, another for bills to pay, and one more for things that need our attention next week.
Remember to set a weekly reminder to go through this drawer – we don’t want our “deal with it later” to become “deal with it never!” A quick 15-minute review each Friday helps keep things from piling up too much.
Pro tip: stick a sticky note with the date on each item as it goes in. This way, we can make sure nothing gets forgotten about for too long. Trust us, your future self will thank you!
5) Color Code Your Files for Fun
Let’s add some color to our boring old filing cabinet and system! A color-coded filing system makes finding documents super easy and brings a splash of joy to our workspace.
We love using red folders for all our medical and pet documents. Green works great for money stuff – like bills, receipts, and tax papers. Blue can be perfect for household paperwork.
Want to take it up a notch? We can use bright stickers or fun craft items to make our folders pop even more. It’s like crafting and organizing had a baby – and we’re here for it!
Don’t forget to label each folder clearly. We can use different fonts or sizes to make main categories stand out from subcategories. This makes finding what we need a breeze.
Who knew getting organized could be this much fun? With this rainbow system, we’ll never dread filing papers again. Plus, our office will look totally Instagram-worthy!
6) Repurpose Mason Jars for Office Supplies
We absolutely love using mason jars to organize our desk supplies! They’re super cute, budget-friendly, and perfect for keeping all those little office items tidy and within reach.
Mason jars make amazing organizers for pens, pencils, markers, scissors, and other desk essentials. We like to group similar items together in each jar to keep things neat and easy to find.
Want to make your mason jar organizers extra fun? Try painting them in your favorite colors to match your office decor! You can even create a DIY desk caddy by grouping several jars together.
Don’t forget to label your jars! We love using cute label makers or even chalkboard paint to mark what’s inside. It’s such a simple trick that makes staying organized so much easier.
The best part about using mason jars is that they’re super versatile. We can switch up what we store in them whenever we want, and they never go out of style. Plus, if we spill coffee on our desk (which happens more than we’d like to admit), these cuties are super easy to clean!
7) Use a Rolling Cart for Extra Storage
We’re obsessed with rolling carts for home office storage!
These little workhorses are total game-changers when it comes to keeping our home office organized and supplies organized and within reach.
Want to create a mobile office station?
Pop your printer on top, stack paper and supplies in the middle, and keep those extra cords and cables neat and tidy on the bottom shelf.
The best part? You can wheel it wherever you need it!
These versatile carts are perfect for storing all our crafting supplies too.
We love using them for markers, washi tape, and other creative goodies that tend to take over our desk space.
Got a small home office?
These carts are your new BFF! They can slide right under your desk when you’re not using them, or tuck away in a corner until you need them.
It’s like having a secret storage superhero on wheels!
Remember to group similar items together on each shelf – it makes finding what we need so much easier.
Plus, it’s kind of fun to reorganize the cart when we’re procrastinating on that big project (we’ve all been there!).
8) Hang a Corkboard for To-Do Lists
We’re obsessed with corkboard walls in home offices – they’re total game-changers!
No more losing important notes or forgetting deadlines when everything is right in front of your face.
Let’s get real – our busy mom brains can’t keep track of everything.
That’s why we love using corkboards for our daily to-do lists, schedules, and those random bits of inspiration that pop up throughout the day.
You can even make it super cute!
Try decorating your corkboard with pretty pushpins, adding some small planters, or organizing it with color-coded sections.
We’re all about making home organization both fun and pretty at the same time!
The best part? You can create an entire wall of mini corkboards to separate different areas of your life – one for work stuff, one for the kids’ activities, and one for those Pinterest recipes you’re totally going to try someday (wink wink).
There’s no wrong way to organize your corkboard.
Whether you’re a color-coding queen or just stick things up wherever they fit, what matters is that it works for you and your crazy beautiful life!
9) Turn a Closet into a Cozy Office Nook
Who says closets are just for clothes?
We’re obsessed with the trend of transforming unused closets into adorable office spaces. It’s such a smart way to make the most of every square foot in our homes!
Getting started online is easier than you might think.
First, clear that desk clean out out that closet (we know, we know – where will all that stuff go?). Then add a simple desk that fits the width of your space.
We love using floating shelves above the desk for extra storage and style points.
Let’s talk lighting!
A small desk lamp or battery-powered LED strips can brighten up your new workspace. Don’t forget to add a comfy chair – you’ll be spending lots of time here getting those tasks done.
Built-in shelving and drawers can really level up your closet office game.
They’re perfect for keeping all our office supplies organized and within reach.
Add some personality with fun wallpaper, cork boards, or a vision board.
We’re huge fans of mixing patterns and colors to create a space that makes us smile every time we sit down to work.
10) Get Fancy with a Desk Organizer Set
We’re totally obsessed with desk organizer sets that make our workspace look put together!
These cute little sets are a game-changer for keeping all the clutter free our stuff in check while adding some serious style to our desk.
A matching set gives us spots for everything – pens, paper clips, sticky notes, you name it!
It’s like giving all our office supplies their own cozy little homes. Plus, when everything matches, our desk instantly looks more polished and professional (even if the rest of our life is a hot mess!).
We love picking sets that match our personality.
Whether we’re into sleek rose gold, classic wood, or fun patterns, there’s definitely something out there for us.
Coordinating storage solutions help create a workspace that feels both functional and totally Instagram-worthy.
Remember to grab a set with different-sized compartments – we need space for those tiny paper clips and bigger items like staplers.
When everything has its place, we feel so much more ready to tackle our to-do list!
11) Chalkboard Paint on One Entire Wall
We’re absolutely obsessed with chalkboard accent walls in home offices – they’re the perfect mix of fun and function!
Think of it as your very own brainstorming paradise where you can scribble down all those brilliant ideas whenever inspiration strikes.
Let’s get real – organizing our thoughts can be messy, and that’s totally okay!
A full chalkboard wall gives us the freedom to make lists, draw mind maps, or even doodle when we need a creative break. Plus, it’s way more exciting than boring old whiteboard!
We love how it adds character to any workspace while being super practical.
You can write down your weekly schedule, keep track of important deadlines, or leave sweet notes for family members who pop into your office.
Don’t worry about making it perfect – that’s not what we’re about!
The beauty of chalkboard paint is that you can simply wipe it clean and start fresh whenever you want. It’s like having an endless supply of paper right on your wall!
12) Throw in a Funky Area Rug for Flair
Let’s talk about one of our favorite ways to jazz up a home office – a funky area rug!
A stylish rug can totally transform your workspace from boring to beautiful in seconds.
We’re huge fans of using geometric patterns and bold designs to add some personality to our office space.
Black and white patterns make a dramatic statement, while colorful designs can brighten up the whole room.
The perfect rug size matters too!
Make sure to pick one that’s large enough to fit under your desk and chair, with about 2 feet of extra space around the edges.
This way, you won’t get stuck with your chair half on and half off the rug (we’ve been there, and it’s super annoying!).
Don’t be afraid to go wild with colors!
We love throwing down a peppy garden-inspired rug to bring some outdoor vibes inside.
It’s like having a mini garden under your feet while you work.
And guess what? You can totally put an area rug over carpet!
We know it sounds weird, but trust us – it works like a charm to define your workspace and add that extra pop of style.
13) Invest in a Comfy Chic Chair
Let’s be real – we spend way too many hours sitting at our desks to settle for an uncomfortable chair!
A cozy and stylish office chair can make all the difference in our workday.
We’re totally obsessed with ergonomic chairs that blend comfort with modern designs.
Trust us, your back will thank you for choosing something with good lumbar support.
Want to add some personality to your space?
We love mixing comfort with style!
Try a crisp white faux leather chair for that clean, contemporary look. Or go boho-chic with a contemporary rattan chair that adds texture and character.
Don’t forget to test drive your chair before committing!
We recommend picking one that’s adjustable – because who doesn’t love customizing their comfort zone? Plus, being able to move around freely while working is a total game-changer.
14) Bring Plants into Your Space
Let’s add some green friends to make our workspace feel alive and fresh!
Plants are amazing office buddies that can make us feel happier while we work.
Adding plants to your home office creates a calm and productive space. We love how they instantly brighten up any desk or shelf. Plus, they help clean the air while we type away at our keyboards!
Want a low-maintenance option?
Pop a cute succulent on your desk – they’re basically impossible to kill (trust us, we’ve tested this theory).
Or try a peace lily that can handle those days when we forget to water it regularly.
Wooden crates or stands make perfect plant platforms and add a cozy vibe to our workspace.
We can stack them to create different heights and visual interest.
Got a sunny window?
That’s prime real estate for our leafy friends! Set up a small plant corner there and watch how it transforms your whole office vibe.
Remember, even fake plants can bring that pop of green we’re looking for. No judgment here – we totally get that not everyone has a green thumb!
Creating A Functional Workspace
Let’s make your home office a place where you’ll actually want to spend time!
We’re talking about picking the perfect spot and getting the lighting just right so you can begin to crush your to-do list in style.
Find The Perfect Spot
We’re big believers in finding that sweet spot for your home office setup.
Pick a quiet corner away from the chaos of daily life – trust us, your future self will thank you!
Look for a space with minimal distractions.
That means staying far from the TV and those tempting snack cabinets in the kitchen.
Got a spare bedroom? Perfect!
No extra room? No problem! We’ve transformed many a dining table, room corner or living room nook into an amazing workspace.
Just make sure you have enough room for:
A desk that fits your computer and essential supplies
A comfy chair (your back deserves the best!)
Storage for your work stuff
A little room to stretch
Lighting That Boosts Your Mood
Let’s talk about bringing in the good vibes with proper lighting!
Natural light is our bestie when it comes to creating a serene workspace. Try to set up near a window if you can.
Layer your lighting like a pro:
Task lighting: A desk lamp for those detail-focused tasks
Ambient lighting: Overhead lights to brighten the whole space
Natural light: Position your desk to face or sit perpendicular to windows
Don’t forget to adjust your computer screen brightness to match your room’s lighting. Your eyes will seriously appreciate it!
Personalizing Your Space
Our workspace should reflect who we are and make us feel happy and motivated!
Adding personal touches transforms a basic home office into our perfect productivity zone.
Showcasing Your Style
We love making our own office to feel like us!
Adding carefully chosen décor elements can boost our mood and creativity in amazing ways. Try these fun ideas:
Display family photos in matching frames
Hang inspiring quotes or artwork that makes you smile
Use your favorite colors in accessories like pen holders and notebooks
Add cozy touches like a soft blanket or fun throw pillows
Pick out a desk lamp that matches your personality
Incorporating Plants
Let’s bring some green friends into our workspace!
Plants make everything better. They clean our air and make us feel more peaceful while we work.
Easy office plants we can’t kill:
Snake plants (perfect for dark corners!)
Pothos (these trailing beauties love hanging baskets)
Succulents (pop them in cute containers on your desk)
ZZ plants (they thrive even when we forget to water)
Pro tip:
Place small plants on floating shelves or window sills to save precious desk space.
We also love using pretty pots that match our décor!
