This sophisticated look is all about dark colours and clean lines with furniture in blocky shapes and sleek, angular designs. As this is a dedicated office, to be used solely for working, the mood is formal, yet calm and relaxed with decoration kept to a minimum. Interest is added with tailored details, such as the piping on upholstery and contrasting trims on accessories. A subtly patterned wallpaper softens the look without being overpowering, and dashes of bright lime green create a lively finish.

How to make it work
• Having an understated pattern on the walls creates a calming atmosphere, so resist the temptation to hang artwork in the room.

• Charcoal wallpaper is smart and sophisticated. Paint woodwork in a dark shade, too, as white would create too sharp a contrast.

• Keep the look sleek by choosing furniture with straight contemporary lines. Add soft furnishings with contrasting piping for a neat, tailored finish, accentuating the overall feel.

To get the look, try Viaduct, Habitat, Jenny-Lyn, 020 7792 4957; Designers Guild, Harlequin and Heal's.

Want more? See more great home office schemes:
Cosy corner office
Dual-purpose home office

STYLING ROSE HAMMICK
PHOTOGRAPHS POLLY WREFORD
NOVEMBER 2008