In Order

Words: Sanri Pienaar | Images: Inge Prins + Supplied

We talk about workspace storage solutions that you’ve always wanted to conquer with Superbalist’s Home + Living buying manager Chevaune Morrison.

For those who may not know you, please tell us a bit about yourself and how you came to love decor?

Homeware and interiors have been part of my DNA forever. Prior to being at Superbalist, I was an interior designer who was able to embrace my passion for textiles, prints and patterns. Now at Superbalist, homeware products are my obsession. Decor is the best part of the process. It’s where you can have some fun, let loose and bring in the finishing touches that make your space unique to you. When we buy products for Home + Living, we want to make sure there is something for everyone.

When it comes to storage for your home office specifically, what excites you about it?

There is nothing more exciting to me than decluttering and organising. An organised space is so much more enjoyable to be in. And the more you can pack away, the more space you make for those special pieces in your home that bring you joy or those trendy updates that will take your home from one season to the next.

Why is it so essential for a productive day?

Marie Kondo said, “A messy room equals a messy mind,” and I couldn't agree more. Working from home in itself has endless distractions. Netflix is a click away, there’s that laundry that needs to be done and let's not mention the refrigerator. It's so important to create a workspace that is going to be inviting, with as little distraction as possible. By having everything you need clearly visible and within reach, there is no excuse to get up and wander around. This way, you can remain focussed and productive.

What would you say are three essential storage solutions for your home office?

1. A big woven basket on the floor next to my desk to hide cables and chargers.
2. A decorative vase, canister or mug for pens, highlighters, hairbands and lip gloss.
3. A storage box of some sort to pack away your notebook, mouse, calculator, etc. This means when you walk away from your desk, your living space or bedroom won’t look or feel like your office. You can also use this box to prop up your screen or laptop.

If you live in a small home and need to set up a workspace in your bedroom or lounge, what are some storage tips or products that ensure a clutter-free space?

The most important thing is not to make your bedroom or lounge start feeling and looking like an office. My home office is in my living room and I've found that packing my work stuff away when I'm done allows me to switch off and enjoy my home.

If your desk has drawers, make the most of them. A drawer organiser is a great way to hide it all away and the different compartments allow you to separate, organise and therefore store more.

If you are tight on floor space or if your desk is as tiny as mine, use your walls. If your workspace is temporary, go for a metal wall rack – quick and easy to hang up and great for pegging up notes and reminders. Add a fun photograph or two and your wall rack can double up as wall art. If your workspace is more permanent, then opt for floating shelves or a freestanding shelving unit. Shelves will allow you to declutter your worktop, add a few boxes and baskets and you can store anything and everything.

Let’s talk tech. What are some of the best storage innovations keeping your tech in check?

Unfortunately we can't get rid of cables entirely, but we do have the cable pinch. They are inexpensive and effective when you need to get your wires under control. If your desk allows, stick your cable pinch on the side or the back so you keep your work surface nice and cable-free.

A docking station or wireless charger is a great way to allocate a specific space on your desk for your mobile phone. You will always know where it is.

And probably the most practical of all, a good old desk organiser – the one with different compartments. It's important that you seperate your tech or you will get your wires crossed: charging cable in one section and headphones in the other.

Lastly, aesthetics. What are the biggest trends you’re seeing in workspace decor and design?

Something homey, such as a rug under your desk or a woven throw over the back of your chair. This allows your workspace to blend seamlessly with your living space. A scented candle may seem a bit extra, but when the stress levels are high and because you can, why not.