office essentials for interior designers

I’m dangerously close to moving into the new Designer’s Oasis Headquarters. As I’m getting organized and going though my office supplies, I started thinking about all the questions I get about what I use to keep projects organized, myself organized, and the designing energy high.

The truth is, I have a love affair with office supplies and I feel very strongly about the things I use everyday.

So today, I thought I’d bring you something a little lighter with a roundup of my favorite office supplies and organization tools PLUS Why I love them so much and I think you will too. Don’t miss that part!

20 Favorite Office Essentials for Interior Designers

NO BUT REALLY…YA’ GOTTA READ THIS! 👇👇👇

Erasable Pens - These are new and SO much fun to write with. They don’t bleed and erase better than a pencil. Perfect for site visits when you’re sketching a room.
Glass Dry Erase Board - This one is much prettier than your typical dry erase board. In the new office I plan to spray paint the standoffs a brass color. I use this to keep my big ideas and to-do list top of mind.
Bulletin Board - Again, I hate the average dry erase and pin board. This white and linen one is clean and perfect for pinning up inspiration images, calendars, notes, and more.
Kate Spade Large Spiral - You MUST touch this paper! It’s thick, silky smooth and lovely to write on. Worth every penny.
Sharpie Pens - My go-to pen is a match made in heaven with the Kate Spade spiral.
Tortoise Shell Desk Accessories - So chic and classic, I absolutely love this tortoise shell desk set.
Essential Oil Diffuser - If I’m feeling overwhelmed or stressed, I pop a few drops of peppermint oil in here and it wakes me up out of my funk every time.
Time Timer - Speaking of time, it’s your most precious resource. This visual timer helps me stay focused especially when sourcing for clients. I’ll set it to about 20 minutes. If I haven’t found the perfect thing I’m looking for, I’ll reset the timer and move on to the next item to source. I always end up finding the thing I was looking for eventually. Watching my time literally slip away is a real motivator!
To-Do Lists - Perfect for a quick brain dump so I can focus on my priorities.
Client-Facing Printer Paper - Don’t use ordinary paper for client prints such as your Welcome Kit or Design Presentation. Print it on really nice paper that feels good to your hand. This paper is more expensive than your average paper which is why I only use it for client-facing prints. Plus, the color quality is SOOOOOOO much better than everyday paper.
Laser Printer & Refill Cartridges - This laser printer was a total game-changer for me. Yes, it’s expensive but the ink lasts 1000x’s longer than an inkjet printer. The color quality (especially when paired with the above paper) is vibrant, sharp, and looks totally professional. No more midnight trips to the print shop! I can do it all from home!
Black Binders - These are what I use to organize every project. I use the 1/2 inch for most projects and 1” for major projects. Having uniform binders lined up in your office keeps things looking organized and professional. The front cover is the client Moodboard once that is complete.
Binder Tabs - The peanut butter to the black binder jelly. I keep a stash of both binders and tabs on hand to quickly set up any new project.
Laminator and Sheets - This fun new toy is something I wanted for a long time. It’s not expensive and I’m finding new uses for it all the time, especially updating my Office Binders.
Acrylic Desk Organizer - This visually-light desk organizer keeps my everyday folders in arms reach as well as corrals pads, pens, post-its, and essential oils without a bunch of clutter.
File Folders - And in that adorable desk organizer are these colorful file folders that keep my biz docs, new client leads, and other frequently used items at reach.
Metal Baskets - For organizing samples, I love these for storing heavy samples like stone and tile.
Cloth Bins - And for lighter samples like fabric, these cloth bins with labels keep items uniform and easy to organize.
Stacking Acrylic Trays - 🔥THESE ARE MY ABSOLUTE NEW FAVE! (sorry for yelling… I’m just excited.) I used to have acrylic trays which I loved but they didn’t stack. I finally found stacking acrylic trays. I use these to organize samples by room or project. When it’s time to clean up, I simply lay everything in the trays and set aside. They also are great for client presentations, especially if you have to travel for them. I bought 6 and already thinking I need more.
Cord Management Box - This oldie but goodie satiates my hatred for cords. Place your power strip inside and all the plugs are outta sight!

Can’t wait to share the new set up in a few weeks with you. Stay tuned.

That’s a wrap! Leave a comment if you share my love affair with office supplies. What’s your new favorite?

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