How to create a stylish workplace in your living room

1. Get creative with shelving

Start with big bookshelves that can stow your work. Cabinet doors conceal technology essentials, paper and accessories so your living room never looks like your workplace.

Hidden in these bookshelves:

Printer

Laptop

Pens and pencils

Stacks of bills

Invoices

Envelopes

Stamps

Reference books

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2. Choose compact equipment

A laptop and a small printer fit perfectly inside cabinets. Go wireless to ditch those unruly cords.

3. Create comfortable seating

You spend so many hours at your desk, a comfy chair is crucial. At home, there’s nothing better than an armchair that doubles as living room seating. This Chippendale-style one is just the ticket.

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4. Put a pin in it

Corkboards are useful, but they can look utilitarian. We dressed ours up with door trim and painted it to match our decor. A gallery wall around it helps disguise its all-business function.

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5. Pick pretty storage

Fabric boxes and attractive cardboard file folders keep everything close at hand. Pens and household bills find a place in this tailored box, while filing is hidden below in inexpensive patterned magazine holders.

Get this solution: Boxes, magazine holders, Ikea.ca.

6. Buy hardworking furniture

When a room has to do two jobs, make sure your furniture does too. This clever side table conceals magazines, cellphones or file folders without compromising style.

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