Small Space? 13 Creative Places to Fit a Home Office

So you don’t have a spare bedroom. So what? With a little bit of creativity and some DIY skillz, you can totally squeeze a home office into your space. It can be a daunting task trying to find the best way to accommodate a creative and inspiring working environment into your home, especially when you barely have enough room for a full-sized sofa. Whether it’s a closet that isn’t living up to its potential or a space under the stairs you didn’t even know existed, check out these 13 creative ideas for some mini office inspiration.

1. In the Attic: Instead of dismissing the attic as storage space, use the peaked roof to your advantage and fit a desk right where you won’t hit your head when you stand up. Take advantage of all the natural light for your desk and invest in a good coat of paint if your attic feels a little dingy. (via Style at Home)

2. In the Closet: It might be a lot to give up a closet, especially when you’re living in a small space, but if you work from home or are in desperate need of a distinct office space, the closet is a no-construction dream. Plus you can always use the space above the desk as closet storage. (via Apartment Therapy)

3. Find the Quirky Nooks: If you live in an older house or apartment, there might be a secret nook that you don’t even know about. This old dumbwaiter station was just the right size to tuck a desk and a computer for an office that isn’t in the way at all. (via Lonny)

4. In the Dining Room: Maybe you find yourself eating most of your meals in the living room or kitchen? If your dining room table doesn’t get that much use, you might want to consider turning it into an office. You could always tuck everything into a cupboard or bookshelf when you host those fabulous dinner parties. (via Apartment Therapy)

5. Built into the Bookcase: If you’re blessed with built-ins, make the most of their potential and add a slide-out desk top that disappears when not in use. If you don’t want to deal with construction, a fold-down or floating shelf uses the same idea. (via Lonny)

6. Under the Stairs: Honestly, what else are you going to do with this little space? Since all you really need is space for a laptop and a cup of coffee, the tiniest space under the stairs can be the perfect spot to tuck a teeny tiny office. (via Look4Deco)

7. In Plain Sight: Work-from-home types can benefit from getting things done in an open and comfortable space like the living room, but you’ll have to be careful about work boundaries since you’ll never really leave the office. (via The Glitter Guide)

8. The Bedside Office: Falling asleep at your desk takes on a whole new meaning if you put the office in the bedroom. While most would recommend keeping work outside of the bedroom, if you’re tight on space, making your nightstand work double-duty as a desk is a great solution. (via Kate Collins Interiors)

9. Behind the Sofa: The space behind the couch can sometimes handle a narrow desk without making the room look too crowded. The secret is to go as narrow as possible and probably go the full length of the sofa so you have as much workspace as possible. (via HGTV)

10. As a Window Seat: Seriously you guys, you can put a desk anywhere. Unless you’re doing some serious napping on your window seat, cut it a little short and add a tiny desk at the end. (via The Jungalow)

11. On a Wall: If you find yourself working mainly from your laptop and only need a desk for organization and filing, a wall system can be a great option. Pick a whole wall or just part of it to put everything you need while working. Add hooks for hanging objects and small baskets if needed. (via Better Homes and Gardens)

12. Next to the Fireplace: Got an awkward corner between the fireplace and a window? You could put a bookcase there, or maybe a chair, but both options leave you with a lot of wasted space. Tuck a tiny desk into the nook for an office that doesn’t get in anybody’s way. (via Apartment Therapy)

13. In a Corner: If you’re struggling to figure out how to decorate around structural columns in your apartment or studio, this could be a brilliant solution. It’s a corner office — get it? (via Apartment Therapy)

How do you fit office space into your home? Tell us about your creative home offices in the comments below!

Trouble sleeping? It could be your bedroom decor that’s keeping you from your best sleep ever. “When thinking about creating a bedroom sanctuary, keep these three key questions in mind,” says Joshua Smith, principal and founder of Vermont-based Joshua Smith Inc. “How does it look? How does it feel? How does it sound?” From decor to lighting to sound, here are ways to avoid some common bedroom decor mistakes that might be preventing you from getting the sleep you need. Your investment in a good night's sleep can help improve your weight, your mood, and avoid health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and more. So have a good restful night with our designer tips.

Bedroom Decor Mistake #1: Excessive Clutter

Design: Joshua Smith Inc. | Photo: Peter Murdock

Instead: Make Your Bed and Get Organized

Clutter can create this sense of chaos in your life, which can negatively impact your ability to relax and fall asleep. "Keeping a tidy space is essential for allowing your thoughts to settle and your body to wind down," says Smith. "Be sure to keep surfaces clutter-free and make your bed in the morning to create a welcoming experience after a long day." Organize your closets and drawers so that it's easy to put clothes away too.

Mistake #2: Too Many Energetic Colors

Design: Victoria Holly Interiors | Photo: Lauren Engel

Instead: Use Bright Colors In Moderation

Bold and bright colors can be visually stimulating (which is why we love them) but they also can make it harder for your mind to relax and wind down before sleep. "When creating a calming and serene atmosphere, we like to feature lighter colors in soothing blues, greens, ivories, beiges, and other pastels," says Victoria Holly, principal and founder of LA-based Victoria Holly Interiors. "But realistically different people find different colors calming, so we like to make sure that we're tailoring calming colors to our clients."

Mistake #3: Too Much Technology

Design: Joshua Smith Inc. | Photo: Tim Lenz

Instead: Keep Tech Out of the Bedroom (Try It For A Week)

We've all heard about how the blue light from devices can negatively impact our natural sleep cycle. Devices can also delay when you go to sleep and how long you sleep. Try leaving them out of the bedroom for a week – charge them outside of the room – and see how your sleep improves. "Remove any distractions that could keep you awake or cause stress, like work related items and yes, the TV too," adds Smith.

Mistake #4: Uncomfortable Bed + Bedding

Design: Victoria Holly Interiors | Photo: Lauren Engel

Instead: Invest In Quality Bedding

"The most important thing when it comes to the bedroom is to invest in a quality mattress and bedding that feels good to you," says Smith. Has it been more than 10 years since you replaced your mattress, or is your current one causing you discomfort? Invest in a quality mattress and find comfortable, layered bedding in natural materials like cotton and linen.

Bedroom Decor Mistake #5: Temperature Extremes

Design: Maestri Studio | Photo: Par Bengtsson

Instead: Keep Temps In The Upper 60s

A bedroom that is too hot or too cold can mess with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep comfortably. Open the windows to bring in fresh air during the day and maintain a comfy temperature by using fans, heaters, or adjusting your thermostat. Experts recommend keeping your thermostat between 65 to 68 degrees F for the most comfortable sleep.

Mistake #6: Shabby Window Treatments

Brad Ramsey Interiors | Photo: Jack Gardner

Instead: Opt For Blackout Curtains

Light exposure from streetlights or sunlight streaming in through uncovered windows can disrupt your sleep patterns. Splurge on blackout curtains instead. "Blackout curtains are a welcome addition to a bedroom as they allow uninterrupted darkness for a restful sleep through the night and into the light of early morning," says Eddie Maestri, principal architect and creative director of Dallas-based Maestri Studio.

Mistake #7: Poor Lighting

Design: Joshua Smith Inc. | Photo: Lance Gerber

Instead: Choose Soft, Dimmable Lights

Bedside lamps or wall sconces create a cozy space ideal for relaxing. "Having the right lighting makes all the difference in the world when it comes how your bedroom feels," says Smith. "Soft lighting from floor and accent table lamps are best for the bedroom verses harsh overhead lighting."

Mistake #8: It Doesn't Feel Inviting

Design: Wendy Smit Interiors

Instead: Incorporate Items That Bring You Joy

Imagine walking into a hotel room that makes you feel sad or stressed out. You'd probably not hang around, or choose that hotel again. Treat your bedroom as a beautiful getaway that serves as a place for rest above anything else. "Incorporate items that bring you joy and evoke a sense of peace and serenity, such as artwork of nature scenes, plants, or meaningful photos of you and your partner," says Smith.

Mistake #9: Creaky Floors

Photo: Joshua Smith Inc. | Photo: Lisa Romerin

Instead: Cover Floors In Comfy Materials

Floors make a big difference in how your bedroom looks, feels, and sounds. "Carpeting your bedroom or adding a soft area rug helps soften any harsh noises like footsteps," says Smith. Area rugs should extend beyond both sides of the bed and provide enough comfort for bare feet.

Bedroom Decor Mistake #10: Not Managing Noise

Design: Living with Lolo | Photo: Life Created

Instead: Block Noise With A Sound Machine

If you live in a city, you likely have some street noise or the sound of noisy neighbors playing in the background. Earplugs can help but there are ways to block the noise disrupting your sleep with your decor. "Consider a sound machine for ambient noise that will help to drown out distractions and steady the mind, allowing the body to relax and recharge," says Smith. "Window drapery also helps to dampen any outside noises. Consider long flowing treatments for a soft, ethereal vibe."

Find more bedroom decor inspiration on our Home Decor page and subscribe to our email newsletter for all our home decor tips.

Main photos by Monstera Production and Vlada Karpovich

If you're a Taylor Swift fan, then you probably know about Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian's history. What started as Kanye West interrupting Taylor's acceptance speech at the 2009 VMAs — a moment that altered the course of pop culture history — spiraled into a very public feud that gave us Reputation and always seems to reappear in a new form. And after the release of The Tortured Poets Department, Swifties think we've got another piece of the puzzle with Taylor's new song "thanK you aIMee."

In true Taylor fashion, the popstar actually hinted at the song in October 2023 when she wore a $24 clip from Anthropologie called the "Aimee" clip! She loves to add all kinds of clues and references within her outfits, and I love that this one is so affordable. Here's everything you need to know. Don't forget to check out Every Pop Culture Reference In Taylor Swift's The Tortured Poets Department.

Is "thanK you aIMee" actually about Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian?

Image via Big Machine Records/YouTube

There is plenty of evidence suggesting "thanK you aIMee" is about Kim Kardashian & Taylor Swift. The first and most obvious is that the title of the song only has three letters capitalized: "KIM." The song talks about "Aimee" (who Taylor admits actually has a different name in real life), a bully figure who beats Taylor's spirit "black and blue."

In the summer of 2016, Kanye West (Kim's husband at the time) released his song "Famous," in which he takes total credit for Taylor's fame following the 2009 VMAs incident. Taylor claimed she never gave him permission to call her a bitch in the song, a video leak from Kim seemed to show the opposite (the video turned out to be edited). At the time, Kim even told GQ that “[Taylor] totally knew that that was coming out. She wanted to all of a sudden act like she didn’t.”

#TaylorSwiftIsOverParty started trending on Twitter, Taylor Swift deleted all social media and stopped doing interviews for three years, then returned with a vengeance on the "Look What You Made Me Do" music video in 2017. The video starts off with a zombie Taylor burying the "nicer" version of herself.

Taylor Swift's "thanK you aIMee" mentions "It wasn't a fair fight or a clean kill // Each time that Aimee stomped across my gravе // And then she wrote hеadlines // In the local paper, laughing at each baby step I'd take." If you ask me, it definitely sounds like a reference to the music video and maybe even Kim's interviews.

Why does "thanK you aIMee" have random capital letters?

Image via Monica Schipper/Getty Images

Taylor Swift loves hiding clues in her titles, lyrics, and messages. And historically, she's hidden words by using random capital letters. That means "thanK you aIMee" is supposed to draw our eyes to "KIM."

The Lyrics To "thanK you aIMee"

Image via Larry Busacca/Getty Images for NARAS

Verse 1: When I picture my hometown // There's a bronze spray-tanned statue of you // And a plaque underneath it // That threatens to push me down the stairs at our school

Pre-Chorus: And it was always the same searing pain // But I dreamed that, one day, I could say

Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, I was buildin' somethin' // And I can't forgive the way you made me feel // Screamed, "F*ck you, Aimee" to the night sky as the blood was gushin' // But I can't forget the way you made me heal

Verse 2: And it wasn't a fair fight or a clean kill // Each time that Aimee stomped across my gravе // And then she wrote hеadlines // In the local paper, laughing at each baby step I'd take

Pre-Chorus: And it was always the same searing pain // But I prayed that, one day, I could say

Image via Christopher Polk/Getty Images

Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, I was buildin' somethin' // And I couldn't wait to show you it was real // Screamed, "F*ck you, Aimee" to the night sky as the blood was gushin' // But I can't forget the way you made me heal // Everyone knows that my mother is a saintly woman // But she used to say she wished that you were dead // I pushed each boulder up the hill // Your words are still just ringing in my head, ringing in my head

Verse 3: I wrote a thousand songs that you find uncool // I built a legacy, which you can't undo // But when I count the scars, there's a moment of truth // That there wouldn't be this if there hadn't been you

Bridge: And maybe you've reframed it // And in your mind, you never beat my spirit black and blue // I don't think you've changed much // And so I changed your name and any real defining clues // And one day, your kid comes home singin' // A song that only us two is gonna know is about you, 'cause

Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, it was all for nothin' // And our town, it looks so small from way up here // Screamed, "Thank you, Aimee" to the night sky and the stars are stunnin' // 'Cause I can't forget the way you made me heal // Everyone knows that my mother is a saintly woman // But she used to say she wished that you were dead // So I pushed each boulder up that hill // Your words were still just ringin' in my head, ringin' in my head

Outro: Thank you, Aimee // Thank you, Aimee

Do you think "thanK you aIMee" is referencing the feud between Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian? After you listen again, check out All Of Taylor Swift's Albums, Ranked!

Lead images via Dimitrios Kambouris/Monica Schipper/Getty Images

A quiet, lesser known pocket of Beverly Hills known as Beverly Hills Post Office (BHPO) shares the same popular zip code but is tucked up in the hills north of BH proper, where you'll score scenic ocean views. Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn of celeb-loved L.A. design firm House of Rolison were tasked with reimagining a 1950s Beverly Hills home in the coveted neighborhood for a modern era.

Photo: Nils Timm

“It's our priority to maintain and enhance the original charm and soul of our homes,” says Leigh. Before the stunning reno, the home lacked a sense of flow with cramped rooms and a narrow kitchen, and had thick, dated carpeting throughout.

Photo: Nils Timm

“The home was a bit of a mish mosh of styles, and had not been updated in quite some time,” adds Leigh. “We wanted to give it a cohesive style, while bringing light to its show pieces.”

Photo: Nils Timm

Those show pieces included its wood vaulted ceilings that had been painted over, and the original fireplaces that had been closed and were no longer functioning properly.

Photo: Nils Timm

The House of Rolison team breathed new life into the home, adding additional square footage and natural light, maximizing the home's stunning ocean and city views.

Photo: Nils Timm

The fireplaces throughout the Beverly Hills home were restored, the ceiling stripped of its old paint, and the decor infused with a calming neutral earthy palette that grounds the design.

Photo: Nils Timm

“BHPO has a lot of renaissance revival homes and this home was much more traditional. We wanted to make the home feel more tied into the homes of the area, while giving it its own playful flare,” says Leigh.

Photo: Nils Timm

Leigh and Hahn let the home speak for itself, using restraint in terms of deconstruction and preserving a lot of the cool mid-century charm. The fireplaces exude warmth beyond raising the temperature.

Photo: Nils Timm

“There were sections of wood paneling, original to the home, that inspired a lot of the design. Funny enough, during deconstruction, the original paneling completely fell apart," says Hahn. "We ended up rebuilding it, in a way that was more flattering to the space, and made it feel much more elevated.”

Photo: Nils Timm

Bold natural stones are used in the kitchen and bath. “ It really gave a playful texture and refined the design in a way that really helped the final product sing,” says Hahn.

Photo: Nils Timm

This green on green is spectacular. Bathrooms are drenched in marble, and architectural details throughout give the home a luxury vibe while still feeling not too fussy and precious. "It's less uptight than contemporary but still playful and bold," says Hahn. Moody vignettes throughout add personality and uniqueness too.

Photo: Nils Timm

“We are known for combining styles that aren't necessarily supposed to be friends, but end up playing well together.” They did that a lot here with lighting and textures. "We would say it ended up being a more transitional style, which blends contemporary and traditional. Transitional style fuses a combination of modern and classic," says Hahn.

Photo: Nils Timm

Thank you to House of Rolison for this stunning peek! Here are some BEFORE photos - eek!

BEFORE 

BEFORE: Vaulted ceilings were roughly painted and the dated ceiling fan doesn't help the original design.

BEFORE: The kitchen was closed in and in desperate need of an upgrade.

BEFORE: The house has a sad exterior with old paint, exposed brick (not the good kind) and landscaping that needed some love.

Photo: Nils Timm

Here's part of the house exterior today -- beautiful and inviting!

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Fans who were left on the edge of their seats after watching the first part of AHS: Delicate last year won't have to wait longer for part two! Emma Roberts and Kim Kardashian are gearing up to pick up where their characters left off, and sinister twists are about to get much darker. While we know the focus revolves around their interactions, we can't wait to see how Gilmore Girls star Matt Czuchry fits into what's sure to be a big reveal.

Read on for a mini recap of part one of AHS: Delicateand learn all the juicy details about part two!

Recap of Kim Kardashian's involvement in AHS: Delicate

Image via FX Networks

Kim Kardashian as 'Siobhan' in "American Horror Story: Delicate"

As good as Kim Kardashian is as the icy publicist Siobhan on AHS: Delicate, don't expect her to watch herself onscreen. She appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live yesterday and explained why she hasn't seen herself in clips of the show when Jimmy Kimmel played and unsettling one.

Her character can be seen intimidating a fertility doctor to do her bidding as she pierces the top of his neck with a long orange fingernail. She smiled before saying "It's so funny, I can't watch it back," and then added, "I get so nervous."

She even talked about the difference between filming for TV and working as an actual actress. She said, "I called my sisters and I go, 'Guys. You — not to say you'd ever want to get into acting — but you are so lucky you can wake up and just, we can sit in bed and film, and you don't have to get up...like there is no schedule."

However, it seems like the budding actress took her new schedule in stride because Star Trek actor and AHS co-star Zachary Quinto applauded Kardashian’s acting chops.

“I did a cameo on this season of ‘American Horror Story’ and I got to meet her,” the actor told People. “She was so lovely and warm and, really, I don’t think she needs my advice.” Quinto added, sharing that Kardashian, was “really in her element” on set and he was “really impressed by her spirit and her openness…I really look forward to seeing this season because I think she’s gonna do a wonderful job.”

Recap of AHS: Delicate Part 1

Image via FX Networks

The first part of AHS: Delicate premiered on FX September 20, 2023 and centered around actress Anna Victoria Alcott's desire to become a mother. Played by Emma Roberts, viewers watched as her husband Dexter Harding (played by Matt Czuchry) was supportive of her IVF procedure so the couple could conceive their first child. Despite the previous struggles, the procedure is a success and the happy couple learn they have a baby on the way.

However, things go horribly wrong when Anna starts being followed and eventually experiences a violent miscarriage during her first trimester. Somehow the baby actually survives, but Anna still experiences a series of strange hallucinations and events. From losing her hair to vomiting a foreign object, she starts to wonder if something is wrong with her baby. There's also the fact that she told her publicist Siobhan (played by Kim Kardashian) that she'd do anything to remain at the top of the her career.

What's revealed is that a baby cult does exist and Dexter's dead first wife knew all about it. However, the cult still looks at him as a threat so it's only a matter of time before they close in.

If you need a refresher, catch up on the first part of AHS: Delicate on Hulu and be sure to check out the eery trailer for a look at part two! Also, get your hands on a copy of Danielle Valentine’s novel Delicate Condition to see how the story truly unfolds.

Watch The Official Trailer For AHS: Delicate Part 2

www.youtube.com

American Horror Story: Delicate Part Two | Official Trailer - Emma Roberts, Kim Kardashian | FX

We suspected Siobhan may have a darker role than Anna thinks and the trailer confirms it. As Anna gets further along in her pregnancy, it's hinted that her growing baby may not be 'normal' and there's nothing she'll be able to do about it.

We're crossing our fingers for Anna and Dexter, but the baby cult may have the final say in AHS: Delicate Part 2.

The first portion of AHS: Delicate Part 2 premiered on FX April 3, 2024, but the series will come to a close beginning April 24. All we can say is things are about to get extremely bumpy 👀.

What do you think will happen during the final moments of AHS: Delicate Part 2? Let us know in the comments!

Stay updated on the latest entertainment news with Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.
Header image via FX Networks

We know that Taylor just released The Tortured Poets Department, sending the internet (and us) into a frenzy to decipher her lyrics and determine who is the subject of each song (we're looking at you, Matty). But we’re still stuck on her last album, Midnights — and more specifically, "Lavender Haze." While we're still obsessed with that song — especially the acoustic version — we're even more obsessed with the shade of purple itself.

Lavender took over the 2023 spring/summer fashion shows, but lavender’s lighter cousin, lilac, is taking the crown as the costar of the season alongside butter yellow this year. This pastel shade has always been a springtime favorite, and it's honestly the perfect color to add to your wardrobe right now. With that in mind, here are a few on-trend pieces to add to your wardrobe to enjoy this season’s fave color.

Shop The Lilac Color Trend Here!

J.Crew Collection Layered Sequin T-Shirt

This sequined top and matching skirt from J.Crew could be my favorite set I’ve seen this season. The top is a sheer and shimmery short-sleeve with a matching colored camisole underneath. The shirt comes with a shorter liner for a fun and flirty evening look, without showing too much skin. Both pieces come in lilac and are covered in light-reflecting sequins.

Coach Jonie Bag

An easy way to incorporate a new color is through accessories, like shoes, jewelry, or bags. I adore Coach, and I'm always checking their website and socials for their latest drop. I’ve been eyeing this purple Jonie Bag for a while and it might be time to click “order.”

Abercrombie Textured Button-Through Shirt Dress

This loose and airy short-sleeve mini dress from Abercrombie is perfect for hot summer days in the office or running errands. Available in petite, regular, and tall, there’s a length for everyone. Pair with flats and a light jacket or blazer for an easy and cool office look.

GAP Mid Rise Crinkle Gauze Wide-Leg Pants

I practically live in linen pants once the temp hits 70 degrees. This style is a "breathable cotton" and comes in a variety of colors, including lilac. These are effortless and easy to throw on with an elastic waistband. I'd love to see them with a graphic tee and sambas!

Abercrombie Ottoman Slash Top

I’m a huge fan of the Ottoman tops from Abercrombie, and this lilac one is in my shopping cart as we speak. This fitted sweater top is a closet staple and easy to pair with linen trousers and sneakers or a mini skirt and heeled sandals.

Urban Outfitters Bri Double Bow Satin Mini Dress

As someone who is obsessed with bows, this lilac dress with bow straps is too cute. I’ll be wearing this satin mini all summer long.

H&M Open-Back Gathered Top

With a variety of purple, lavender, and lilac shades — and a just bit of yellowy orange — this tie-dye-inspired tank is the perfect going out top for spring and summer. The gathered seams on the side provide a great shape and the open back is perfect for a hot summer night.

Adidas Sambas OG

As someone who is getting bored of plain, white sneakers, I am seriously considering adding a colorful tennis shoe to my (overflowing) closet. Adidas Sambas are everywhere right now, and this purple pair is so cool.

J.Crew Garçon Classic Shirt In Striped Cotton Poplin

This everyday button down shirt is a classic from J.Crew, but the color and print make it feel fresh and new. This top is perfect with white trousers and white sneakers for a cute and casual daytime outfit or with black trousers and pumps for an office-ready look.

Lululemon Varsity High-Rise Pleated Tennis Skirt

Even Lululemon is into lilac. This trendy tennis skirt, which comes in a variety of colors, is now available in lilac. Designed for tennis but also perfect for all your Hot Girl and Wine Walks, this fun and bright skirt will make any workout better.

Banana Republic Ariella Taffeta Midi Dress

Midi dresses are the best for summer — they’re comfortable, easy to throw on, and always look cute. This purple one from Banana Republic is no exception, and would be a perfect pick for your next vacay.

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