Stylish, but controversial: the latest design trends for home offices

I’m aware that the following photos will cause some reactions. How come? In the past, the Community criticised the lack of functionality, the inadequate ergonomics and the unrealistic presentation of furniture in my articles on the subject of alternative home office design.

Nevertheless, it’s my job to inform you about the latest interior design trends. And these indicate that our home office setups could soon look a lot less boring. These examples, which were on display at Milan Design Week (MDW), show what I’m talking about.

Supaform: a combination of modern and retro flair

Among the showcased designs was the minimalist Villa Borsani office once used by architect Osvaldo Borsani and furnished by Italian design studio Supaform. It was inspired by Borsani’s idea of a «laboratory for experiments and a sacred space for solitude and escapism», according to Wallpaper magazine.

The simple Supaform office furnishings include a robust silver desk and chair, a retro computer and conventional-looking files on the shelves. This creates an exciting contrast between futuristic and nostalgic elements.

Studio F: camouflage furniture

The woodworking studio Studio F presented the Pieces collection for the Movimento Gallery on the occasion of MDW. It’s inspired by ship camouflage from World War I, the so-called dazzle camouflage used on British and later also American ships to make them as eye-catching and confusing as possible. The items from the Pieces collection combine mineral patina and liquid silver to show wood in a new light and emphasise its texture. They combine art, design and experimental elements.

The silver, sculptural desk from Studio F may not offer enough space for a laptop, documents or other office equipment, but it stands out and hints at what a desk could look like.

Dimore, Flexform and Sé: transparency and round shapes

Similar to Studio F and Supaform, the design duo from Dimore also plays with contrasts. They wrapped the rooms of their studio in Via Solferino entirely in dark fabric to create the atmosphere of a pitch-black tent on a starry night. The lack of a real home setting or any background make the staged workplace seem even more dreamy.

The desk areas of furniture brands Sé and Flexform, on the other hand, attracted attention with their rounded or transparent office furniture. The chairs may not offer an all-day and ergonomic working experience, but they’re refreshingly different.

Of dreams and dreads: how new trends are changing office design

These ideas for workplace design are visually appealing, but not suitable for an ergonomic home office environment. But I’m not giving up on my design dream of tidy workspaces and attractive office furniture. After all, designers might come up with ways to create desks that are both practical and beautiful in the future. Until then, we can only scroll through these kinds of photos and either marvel or shake our heads.