10 Office Desk Decorating Ideas: My Favorite Office Desk Decorating Ideas That Boost Mood & ProductivityLena HartwellSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Add a Personal Photo Gallery2. Bring in a Small Plant or Two3. Use Stylish Storage Trays4. Layer Lighting for Comfort5. Experiment with Wall Art6. Keep a Mood Board7. Choose a Signature Color Palette8. Incorporate Scent9. Mix Old and New Pieces10. Display an Object with MeaningFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOnce, a client asked me to design an office desk area entirely in neon green. I thought it would be a disaster, but it ended up being surprisingly energizing. That project taught me something important — small spaces, like a desk, can unleash big creativity. Today, I’m excited to share 10 office desk decorating ideas that I've tested and loved, blending practicality with personality. (And if you’re dreaming beyond your desk, a room planner can help visualize the whole space.)1. Add a Personal Photo GalleryI like to frame a mix of family photos, travel shots, and even quirky postcards. It instantly makes your desk feel warmer and more ‘you’. Just don’t overstuff the space—too many frames can look cluttered.save pin2. Bring in a Small Plant or TwoA little greenery works wonders for stress. I keep a small pothos in a ceramic pot—it’s forgiving even if I forget to water. Plus, plants can subtly improve air quality.save pin3. Use Stylish Storage TraysCorral your pens, sticky notes, and paperclips in matching trays. It’s simple but makes a huge difference in keeping everything looking neat.save pin4. Layer Lighting for ComfortA desk lamp with a warm bulb can balance harsh overhead lighting. My current lamp was a flea market find with a brass finish, and it gives my desk a cozy glow.save pin5. Experiment with Wall ArtIf your desk faces a wall, make it inspiring! I love rotating prints or quotes. Sometimes I even clip fabric swatches for texture. Midway through projects, I’ll use my office layout planner to see if a bigger pinboard or shelf might work better.save pin6. Keep a Mood BoardA corkboard or magnetic board can be both decorative and functional. Mine usually has design inspiration, deadlines, and spontaneous sketches pinned up.save pin7. Choose a Signature Color PaletteCoordinating your desk accessories in one or two colors instantly pulls the look together. Neutral lovers can play with textures instead—think linen pencil cups and matte ceramics.save pin8. Incorporate ScentA subtle candle or diffuser can make your desk feel calm and inviting. Just remember to keep scents mild so they don’t overpower your focus.save pin9. Mix Old and New PiecesI like pairing vintage finds with modern accessories—it tells a story. A worn leather notebook next to a sleek wireless charger is my current favorite combo. If I’m rearranging furniture to fit these, I sometimes test it out in a 3D floor planner to avoid moving things twice.save pin10. Display an Object with MeaningIt could be a souvenir, a trophy, or even a quirky mug from your college days. A meaningful object makes the space feel uniquely yours and sparks joy every time you see it.save pinFAQ1. How can I decorate my office desk without cluttering it?Use multi-functional items like storage boxes that double as display pieces, and limit decor to essentials that bring you joy or inspiration.2. What plants are best for an office desk?Low-maintenance plants like pothos, snake plants, and ZZ plants are great—they tolerate low light and infrequent watering.3. Does lighting affect productivity?Yes, studies confirm good lighting improves mood and focus. Natural light is best, but warm LED desk lamps are a close second.4. Can scents really help with focus?Certain scents like lemon, rosemary, or peppermint can boost concentration. Source: National Library of Medicine, 2016 study on aromatherapy benefits.5. How do I choose a desk color palette?Pick 2–3 colors you love and match accessories, or stick to neutrals and play with textures for a sophisticated look.6. Is it good to mix personal items with work-related decor?Absolutely—blending both makes your space more inviting while keeping you motivated.7. How often should I refresh my desk decor?Every 3–6 months is ideal to keep things fresh and inspiring without becoming a distraction.8. Can I test my desk layout before moving furniture?Yes, you can use digital tools like an office layout planner to visualize and adjust before making changes.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE