Don’t get us wrong: we love collaborating with our colleagues in the office. But if our at-home workspaces looked anything like these ones from the WL archives, we’d probably really struggle to make it in.

The home office
Photo: Ema Peter

Out Look

We’re not sure how the owners of this office get anything done. The views outside the window are just too gorgeous! Designer Stephanie Brown must have thought so, too, as she installed a couple things to help minimize other clutter and distractions, including built-in millwork and a screen (not pictured) for taking video calls. Check out the rest of this cozy home on the Salish Sea.

Photo: Phil Crozier

Desk Job

Instead of installing two desks in this Calgary home office, designer Alanna Dunn created one large built-in work surface. It easily accommodates a seat on either side—in this case, a pair of blue velvet chairs. Paired with custom shelving, an upholstered message board and gold accents, the space is both functional and elegant. Learn more about this designer look.

Photos: Ema Peter

Power Team

This Vancouver manor features his-and-hers offices that are in striking opposition to each other. His is dark and edgy with black walls, skateboard art and a hidden Scooby Doo-inspired staircase that leads to the primary suite; hers is light and bright with a large white sofa and built-in desks on either side of the fireplace. Which one would you prefer to work in? Step inside this Kelly Deck-designed home.

Photo: Janis Nicolay

Quick Win

When designer Anna Dhillon saw that this rectangular room had a jog in the wall, she was inspired to make it stand out. How? By outfitting the niche—already lined with gorgeous stone tiles—with a modern secretary’s desk and floating shelves. “Custom millwork is key,” she says. “It gives it a ‘wow’ factor.” Take a closer look at this custom workspace.

Ideation Station

There are two types of people in the world: the ones who prefer to work in a clean and clear space, and the ones who find creativity in chaos. This office designed by Stephanie Da Silva is for the latter. While still neat and tidy, glass cabinet doors reveal an inspiring collection of books and vintage cameras that help keep the ideas flowing. Explore this Abbotsford show home.

Photo: Janis Nicolay

Open-door Policy

This 109-year-old Vancouver home is filled with small-yet purposeful spaces, including a hidden wok kitchen, a breakfast nook and an office. To maximize both privacy and natural light, designer Denise Ashmore finished the workspace with frosted glass doors. We can imagine a lot of boss moves being made here! See more before and after renovation photos.

Photo: Rebecca Frick

Meeting Room

Scotch, cigars and tailored three-piece suits—those are the words Jenn MacDonald of DWK Interiors uses to describe this Calgary home office. With cognac leathers, deep jewel tones and a rich charcoal paint colour, the space is completely distinct from the rest of the house. “The homeowner wanted to be able to work here but also entertain clients and colleagues,” says the designer. “A vintage ‘men’s club’ experience, right at home.” Get more trade secrets from this moody and masculine room.