How Kate Designs Her Desk
{kate’s favorite office accessories}
A few weeks ago we solicited your thoughts on what you would like to see us write about in upcoming weeks. We received some great responses and we’re so excited to tackle the various topics you raised. This post, per an HOM reader’s request, will be the first of two (Desiree will write the next one!) on what office decor we cannot live without.
Aside from fashion, food, wine and cooking, I absolutely love interior design and decor. (Little known fact: after undergrad, I worked for a Chicago-based interior designer before turning to a job in the law!) When it comes to work and office decor, organization and functionality are paramount considerations. For me, there are a few office decor pieces I highly recommend to any aspiring professional:
1) A Desk Blotter
A writing pad can be both gorgeous and functional. I love mine not only because it protects by desk from scratches, it frames my work area and injects some color into my otherwise boring work space. If you are looking to invest, this Blue Woven leather set is stunning. The rich hue and textured design are lovely. Or, go for something simpler, like this gray and beige desk blotter set, or this brown leather and tan canvas version from Pottery Barn. If you would prefer to save and you’re looking for a basic black or brown leather writing pad, stop by your local Office Max, Staples or Office Depot and grab the one you like best.
2) A Business Cardholder
You do not have to spend much on one of these, but it’s worth it to have your business cards readily accessible and stored in a stylish container. These monogram acrylic card holders are utterly affordable and would match any office space. Or, opt for something more traditional, like this leather number from Office Depot or this modern silver option from Nambe for only $35.
3) A Mail Sorter and an Inbox/Outbox
A mail system or an inbox/outbox system are crucial for staying organized and neat. As with the business card holder above, I love these acrylic desk accessories. The airy simplicity is so clean and neat, not to mention practical. The three-tiered tray and letter box are especially important, and the gold-accented stapler and tape dispenser are a nice bonus.
5) A Notepad
It is essential to keep a notepad and pen near your phone, ready for you to jot down names, numbers and other important information. So, why not pick out something special to do the job? I love all of these clever notepads from Ben’s Garden, available at Nordstrom, although this one is my favorite.
6) A Day Planner
Sure, some of us use our phones for our calendaring, but for those of us who prefer to go old school, a hard-copy planner is the way to go. Paper Source has a variety of stylish yet affordable options, including my personal favorite below.
7) A Timepiece
A clock is a sophisticated accessory that can add personality and style to your work space. I love these floating glass timepieces by Simon Pierce in square or round.
8) Bookends
Instead of stuffing important and regularly-used books or folders into a drawer, consider aligning them using bookends. Like a clock, bookends are a chic way to add interest to your work space while maintaining a focus on organization and functionality. These bifurcated Eiffel Tower bookends are charming. Or, these Agate bookends, available through Etsy, are gorgeous. Or, go for a preppy equestrian look with these classic horse head bookends.
What office accessories can you not do without?
If there are any topics you’d like to see us cover in upcoming weeks, let us know that, too by leaving a comment or emailing us at [email protected].
Cheers,
Team HOM
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