DITTO :: {WHAT I WOULD STEAL FROM THIS SPACE}:

1.  THINKING OUTSIDE OF THE FLOOR-PLAN “BOX.”

This is actually Emily’s Dining Room. And it is right in the front of her home; right by the front door. I love the concept of repurposing rooms because I truly believe you should use EVERY single room in your home, and use it well. Your home should bend to your family’s needs, not vice versa. So, what does one do when they have a barely-used dining room, and the need for a chic office? Think outside of the the floor-plan “box,” and create an office that is so stunning, that you are proud that it graces your front entry area.

2.  CONTRAST.

Oh, here I go again. Always talking about contrast. But, truth be told… for my personal loves and tastes, I find that the most gorgeous design exists where contrast exists. Of course, Emily achieves this so well in this office: Pure white walls and trim vs. Deep bronze shelf backing. Industrial vs. Traditional. A vibrant, bright rug vs. peaceful walls vs. deep shelves. Farmhouse simplicity {that table/desk, sparse furnishings} vs. High-Gloss Glamour {gold mirror. those shelves! even orchids and a white horse}. This is a girl after my own decorating heart! Ditto!

3.  AMAZINGLY STYLIZED BOOKSHELVES.

Aren’t these shelves stylized amazingly? Take note of some of Emily’s details that are worth ditto-ing: Books that line up evenly at the edge of the shelf. Some books up, some books on their sides. Breathing room {the shelves are not crammed full. You can still see and enjoy the color behind the bookshelves}. and A few fun pieces tossed in {that horse. A trophy. Sculptural bookends. A framed photo}. For more inspiration on styling bookshelves and display, you may have fun checking out my Pinterest Board: Inspiration Display.

4.  PACK IN THE BOOKS.

I love Emily’s confession: Once her gorgeous, and large shelves were built, she discovered that she did not have quite enough books to fill the shelves the way she had envisioned. So, of course, with a vision of shelves full of colorful books, she hunted down enough books to make these shelves have an amazing library feel – both by buying used books, and taking used books off of the hands of her family and friends. I love that.

5.  THOUGHTFUL OFFICE SEATING.

Emily found a comfy linen chair as her desk chair, and then made sure that the space had enough seating to keep the room versatile. Two fun, industrial chairs are positioned on the opposite side of her desk for client meetings. But my favorite is that comfy looking armchair that sits in the corner, and faces a wall full of reading opportunities. Not to mention, it is tucked by the window… the best place for reading. Now, Emily. Don’t work too hard. Make sure you take some time to sit in that great chair by the window.

6.  ARTISTIC AND CREATIVE INSPIRATION PIECES.

If you are a creative professional, you should surround yourself with pieces that inspire. Gorgeous pieces, that get your creative juices flowing. I love the huge and colorful modern artwork that sits in the hall to the left of Emily’s seated viewpoint. I also love the rich colors of the chinoiserie influenced lamp. A fresh plant always inspires. And being surrounded by great books has always been inspiring to me. I think that must be some of Emily’s faves sitting on her desk top. Are you inspired?? Ditto.

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SO much goodness. Love anything I did not mention? or…