Hove Home Study: Midcentury Minimalist Home Office
We were asked to transform an existing space into a refined, elegant workspace that felt more like home than an office. The brief? A minimalist home office with a subtle midcentury office sensibility — clean lines, warm materials, and a calm, focused aesthetic.
Design Concept & Approach
Rather than leaning into overt “office vibes,” we crafted a design that whispers its function. We chose a rich, moody palette—pairing oak veneered cabinetry with Farrow & Ball “Down Pipe”—to soften the formality of a working environment. The contrast between the organic oak grain and the deep, muted tone of the paint delivers a serene yet grounded space.
Strong natural light allowed us to keep the atmosphere open and bright, even with darker finishes. The cabinetry is meticulously detailed: solid oak doors with routed handles that disappear seamlessly into the design, avoiding visual clutter.
Functional Detailing & Features
One standout feature is an integrated cable management system. Hidden within the desk module is a flip-open compartment, giving immediate access yet remaining perfectly tidy when closed.
Every joinery decision supports the minimal aesthetic: no unnecessary hardware, no over-ornamentation, only what’s needed, no more. The result is a midcentury-inspired composure—understated, functional, and timeless.
ROOM HIGHLIGHTS
- Oak veneer for warmth and textural contrast
- Farrow & Ball “Down Pipe” for a refined, moody backdrop
- Routed cabinet faces (no external handles)
- Discreet flip-open cable access
ROOM DETAILS
- Classic midcentury principles (simplicity, utility, honest materials) form the foundation
- The minimal colour palette and sleek cabinetry let focus stay on the workspace, not decoration
- Storage is built-in and integrated, keeping the room free of visual distractions
- Thoughtful touches like concealed cable management reinforce the refined minimalism of the design
