6 Home Decor Finds That Will Make Your Desk a Little Less Sad

There’s a really good chance you’re reading this article while you’re burning the midnight oil. Or maybe you’re procrastinating tackling that laundry list of projects, emails, and deadlines. (It’s okay, we won’t tell your boss if you don’t!)

Truth is, you spend a lot of time working. Some studies even say an average person spends over 13 years in their lifetime working. And no matter how much you love your job, spending day after day in a sterile, super corporate office can be soul-sucking.

That’s where we come in. Sure, new office decor won’t solve all your workplace woes, but they can help your cubicle from feeling sterile and, honestly, sad. You could invest in some conventional desk accessories, but infusing some home decor into your workplace will give your desk a warm, inviting appeal. You know, somewhere you actually want to be 40-plus hours a week:  

Research shows having plants in the office can decrease  stress, promote productivity and creativity, and reduce an office’s overall absence rate. But when it comes to your own desk, plants will bring some life back into your space while you’re slowly but surely drowning into a laundry list of deadlines.

With minimal light needed and required watering every two weeks, which is perfect if you’re going on vacation, Snake Plants have “office friendly” written all over them.

We’re not going to sugarcoat it for you: Stiff desk chairs are the absolute worst. While most offices won’t let you swap out this seat for a more comfortable alternative (ugh), you can always add an accent pillow. Not only will World Market’s lumbar pillow give your back some extra support, but the sweet tassels and woven detailing will give your less-than-awesome chair a stylish flair.

In a perfect world, you’d have free reign to make over a spacious corner office. But in reality? You’re probably camping out in a teeny, tiny cubicle (or even a shared desk). Make the most out of your small space with decor that can do double duty. This pick from Wit & Delight might technically be a pencil holder, but it can double as bookends. Pro tip: Place some fabulous art books in between these bookends for a fashionable, fun flair.

Bring some aromatherapy to your office space with SERENE HOUSE’s diffuser. Sharp enough to look like a stylish accessory, it will also keep you calm throughout the day. Simply hook it up to one of your many USB ports, add your favorite oils, and take a deep breath…

Truth is, we see our coworkers more than our friends or family members. And while we know our loved ones are a call, text, or FaceTime away, nothing beats seeing them IRL. Adding pictures of your favorite people to your space will make your cubicle feel like home. Plus, it may be the push you’ll need to finally call Grandma back. These geometric frames from Umbra look nice without overpowering your precious Kodak moments.