Find home office inspiration from a family study that's just as beautiful as it is functional.

The 10-by-12-foot main-floor study of Remy and Tyler Lang’s Toronto home offers their family of five a quiet spot for everything from paying bills to doing homework. At the same time, it keeps everybody together. “We wanted a place for the kids on the main level so we could keep an eye on them,” says Remy. To enhance the space’s secluded, cozy feel in the all-white house, the couple decided to cover the walls in panelling and paint it black and white. “It’s traditional with respect to all the mouldings, but the black makes it more modern,” says Remy. “And you feel like you’re in this one little environment, so you can focus on your work .”
 

The look
Modern and traditional

The decorating idea
Black and white wall panelling defines the space, lends cozy character and creates graphic punch.
 

The high-low mix
1 LOW The funky brass chandelier was a DIY kit ordered from the States that only cost $250.
2 HIGH An original piece of art is well worth the investment, and this particular painting offers the black and white office a refreshing hit of colour.
3 HIGH Custom wall panelling both defines the space and blends with the house’s traditional architectural elements.
4 LOW The desk is an IKEA hack. “We spraypainted the steel legs a gold colour to look like brass,” says homeowner Remy Lang.
5 HIGH Iconic Mid-Century Modern pieces like the Eames chair never go out of style.

 

 

• Trendspotting: Black and white graphic prints
• 4 steps to a chic and organized home office
• 10 home office essentials

 

6 HIGH A few choice accessories like the black globe enhance the room’s study-like vibe.
7 LOW The walnut credenza, which provides warmth and incredible storage (“It’s like our own mini Staples in there,” says Remy) was purchased off Craigslist for $400.

 

 

Get the look: Functional + decorative
1 Abstract Landscape #3 print by Yangyang Pan, Siiso Visiual Art, from $25 US.
2 Black 2132-10 wall paint, Benjamin Moore, from $48 per gallon.
3 Industrial task lamp in Antique Bronze, West Elm, $119.