Be inventive with the floor. One room is not such a big area, so take a look at today's multifaceted options. Laminates are easy to install come in an array of colours and patterns, and have a more professional feel than wall-to-wall carpet. But carpet tile is a good blend between home and office. The light- and dark-striped graining in Zebrano (Zebrawood) laminate shown here is an exotic feature that elevates the design appeal of a home couture business. Artistic area rugs, bold-coloured carpeting, or hard-wearing linoleum in solid or geometric patterns make excellent choices that will boost the character of the room as well as make it inviting to investigate.

Office storage doesn't have to mean walls of grey file cabinets. Devise a system around your needs and then look for storage solutions with eye appeal. Second-hand office supplies can be painted, wood planks weathered, matching boxes and bins lined up. Try painting second-hand office filing cabinets in unusual colours, use a metal primer first, then water-based paint, or try chalk paint that is available in a variety of colours by Crayola, again blending fun and function.