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Step-by-Step Instructions on Creating an Aesthetic, Pinterest-Worthy Desk Setup

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SJSU chapter.

Imagine scrolling through Pinterest and being captivated by beautiful, aesthetic desk setups, making you wish your desk looked like that. Creating an aesthetic desk setup can help boost productivity and improve your mood while studying and completing assignments, but it can also involve effort in combining functionality with visual appeal. In today’s article, we will explore step-by-step how you can create your own aesthetic desk setup. 

1. Define Your Style

Choose a specific aesthetic style that reflects your preferences and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Whether it’s minimalist, rustic, modern, or any other style, having a clear vision will guide your choices.

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2. Choose Functional and Stylish Furniture

Select a desk that aligns with your style and fits your space. Consider factors like size, material, and design. A clean and simple design often works well for aesthetics. 

Invest in convenient and stylish furniture, such as a comfortable chair or decorative bookshelves. Furniture that is both functional and visually appealing contributes to the overall aesthetic. 

3. Declutter and Minimize

Use cable organizers or clips to manage and hide cables. Tangled cables can make your setup look cluttered, so keep them tidy and out of sight as much as possible. 

Keep your desk clutter-free by only having essential items on it. A minimalist approach can contribute to a clean and aesthetically pleasing look. 

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4. Choose a Color Scheme

Opt for a cohesive color palette for accessories and furniture. Choose a color palette that matches your overall aesthetic. Stick to a few cohesive colors to maintain a unified look. This applies to your desk accessories, chair, and other elements. 

Select furniture that prioritizes both appeal and utility, such as a comfortable chair or decorative bookshelves. Furniture that is both functional and visually appealing contributes to the overall aesthetic.

5. Invest in Quality Lighting

Adequate lighting is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics. Enhance your workspace with stylish lighting, such as a desk lamp, LED strips, or fairy lights, to create a pleasant ambiance. Natural light is also a great option, if possible.

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6. Personalize with Decor

Add wall art, plants, shelves, a bulletin board, or other decorations to personalize your space. Choose items that align with your aesthetic and serve a purpose, such as displaying motivational quotes or artwork. 

Introduce greenery to your desk with potted plants or succulents. Not only do they add a touch of nature, but they also improve the overall atmosphere of your workspace. 

7. Use Stylish Desk Accessories

Select coordinated desk accessories that complement your chosen aesthetic. This could include a stylish mouse pad, desk organizer, or decorative pen holder. 

Coordinated accessories enhance the overall look. Invest in decorative storage solutions like baskets, trays, or stylish containers to keep your supplies organized and add visual interest to your desk.

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Remember, the key to an aesthetic desk setup is a combination of functionality and style. Regularly reassess and adjust your setup as needed to maintain a space that inspires and motivates you.

Are you planning to renovate your desk or create a brand-new study space? Share your plans and send us pictures to @hercampussjsu!

Hey! I'm Sanjana, but you can call me Sanju. I’m currently a Communication Studies student at SJSU. I love food, especially frozen desserts and tiramisu. Boba is my go-to drink, and I'm always down to explore new boba stores and flavors (though mango-passionfruit green tea remains my favorite). I'm actively building my online presence on Instagram and YouTube, sharing my journey as a student. Through these platforms, I aim to connect with other students who are also pursuing higher education. I also aspire to launch a relevant blog and sell handmade stationery someday. In my spare time, you'll find me engaged in writing, reading (particularly YA fiction), and dancing. As a K-pop fan, I mostly participate in K-pop dance covers, and my favorite groups include NCT, Stray Kids, and ITZY. As a music enthusiast in general, I vibe with various genres. Ultimately, my life goal is to explore and travel the world!