Before and After: Home Office Transformation

Host Joan Steffend and designer Michelle Hules Brandstetter transform an ordinary home office into a bold new space that conceals all the clutter.

After

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They begin by painting the walls a deep russet shade to add warmth. The closet doors are painted the same shade to make them less noticeable.
The inside of the closet is turned into a work station. Shelving consists of pine planks attached directly to the walls. Two patio spindles are attached to the front for stability and to add a decorative element.
A drop-leaf table is transformed into a conference table. They remove one of the leaves and cut it in half lengthwise. The two pieces are reattached to create an upper shelf for storage. The remaining leaf can be lifted up as needed. A chair mat placed between the computer desk and conference table is decorated with a painted flower design on the back for interest.
Two shelving units are built large enough to fit two pairs of plantation shutters for the doors. Both are placed on the back wall and painted pine boards are used for shelving in between to create one large storage unit.

Before

Another shutter is attached above the window to create a unique awning. It's hinged directly to the window casing and supported by porch railing pieces on either side.

Slipcovered dining chairs add a tailored look to the conference area.

A mail organizer is created out of iron book stands, a piece of wood and garden markers.

Finishing touches include a desk lamp and various wire and wicker baskets for storage.

How-to: Wall-to-Wall Storage Unit

Steps:

Construct two shelving units to fit two pairs of plantation shutters. Attach shutters to the front.
Place the shelving units along one wall and attach painted pine boards in between to create open shelving.
Add crown molding to the top of the bookcases for a finished look.

Itemized Design Elements

$19 - paint (Hirshfield's - 7856A, Tomahawk)
$67 - computer station
$50 - conference table (garage sale)
$50 - floor mat
$116 - wall unit
$4 - awning
$60 - slipcovers (Mudd Lake Furniture)
$21 - organizer (The Home Depot)
$40 - desk lamp (Mudd Lake Furniture)
$30 - egg baskets (Mudd Lake Furniture)
$21 - wicker basket (Mudd Lake Furniture)
$15 - wire basket (Mudd Lake Furniture)

$492 - Total Cost