Creating a Sanctuary: How I Transformed My Home Office
A Long-Awaited Dream
When my partner and I moved into our new home, I envisioned a dedicated space where I could work without distractions. No clutter, no shared spaces, and definitely no litter boxes. We left behind the cramped quarters of Los Angeles and settled into a more spacious abode in East LA, complete with a garage and a large closet. It was the perfect opportunity to create my ideal workspace.
A False Start
Initially, I didn’t put much effort into setting up my office. I bought a cheap desk, but it didn’t inspire me to focus. Instead, I found myself working from my bed or the couch, and occasionally visiting a shared workspace provided by my company. It wasn’t until the pandemic hit, and I lost my job, that I realized the importance of a dedicated workspace.
The Pandemic’s Impact
Freelancing full-time and later taking on a salaried job meant long hours, often stretching from 8 am to 10-11 pm. My husband’s job loss added to the stress, and I found myself constantly plugged in, working from bed, and struggling with insomnia. It was clear I needed a change.
Breaking the Cycle
I knew I had to create a space that would help me differentiate between work and sleep time. The thought of using my old, scratched-up desk in a stark room filled me with anxiety. So, I invested in transforming my office into a creative haven.
A New Beginning
I started by replacing the desk with a sectional couch that provided back support and comfort. The old desk was repurposed as a fence for our backyard garden, keeping our dog from digging up our herbs. Next, I added a vibrant accent wall, a tray table for video calls, a rug, and a lamp from the living room. The result was a warm, inviting space that boosted my productivity and mental health.
The Transformation
Check out the before and after photos below:
[Insert before and after photos]
The Final Touches
The couch was larger than expected, so I tucked away the filing cabinet and printer into the closet. I plan to add frames to the wall, featuring pre-pandemic photos, to remind myself that there’s life beyond the pandemic. The total cost of the revamp was around $1,000, but it was worth every penny for the improved mental health and increased productivity.
About the Author
Gina Vaynshteyn is an editor and writer based in LA. You can find her work on Refinery29, Apartment Therapy, HelloGiggles, Distractify, and more. Follow her on Instagram or Twitter for more stories and inspiration.
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