Marie Claire – Interior Design: Rethinking the Home Office

In the Swiss edition of Marie Claire, Renata Koglin, interior architect and founder of RK Interiors, signs an article exploring how our workspaces have been reshaped by the rise of remote work. Specializing in neuro-architecture and biophilic design, she emphasizes a crucial insight: a home office is not just a surface for a laptop, but a space that directly influences our energy, emotions, and overall well-being.

Space as a mirror of identity

Renata begins with a simple observation: after spending months living, working, and sometimes even studying within the same four walls, we started questioning our interiors. “Who am I in this space, and what does it say about me?” she asks. Even a small corner can become an anchor point if it is designed with intention. A differently oriented chair, a floating shelf, or a meaningful object can be enough to draw an invisible line between work and rest.

The vital role of light

Natural light is at the heart of her approach. It acts as a silent guide, shaping our mood and concentration. Renata suggests orienting your desk toward a window, letting daylight set the rhythm, and compensating with soft lighting or even a candle when necessary. More than a decorative element, it becomes a light ritual that structures the day and boosts motivation.

Creating a personal sound bubble

True silence is rare at home. Yet, sound can become an ally if we curate it carefully. A calm playlist, soft piano notes, or the sounds of wind and waves can create a soothing auditory cocoon. On a practical level, Renata highlights the importance of textiles: a rug, curtains, or fabric panels not only soften acoustics but also help anchor focus.

A desk that nourishes the mind

For Renata, a desk should not be reduced to its utilitarian function. It can also nurture creativity and self-care. A notebook with a pleasant texture, a photograph that evokes happy memories, or a favorite pen are details that uplift concentration and brighten the daily routine. As she puts it: “Designing a beautiful environment that carries meaning is also a way of taking care of yourself.”

The importance of a closing ritual

At home, the workday no longer ends with a natural “see you tomorrow.” That is why Renata insists on creating a ritual to close the day. Tidying up your desk, switching off a lamp, or playing a familiar song marks the transition and preserves your energy for the rest of the evening.

A holistic vision of design

Throughout the article, Renata’s philosophy shines through: every interior should reflect the personality of its inhabitants while enhancing their quality of life. Through neuro-architecture and biophilic design, she brings together science, emotion, and aesthetics to create spaces that are not only functional but also restorative and inspiring.

“Remote work doesn’t just change where we work, but also who we become in that space. Creating a workspace that reflects us means reclaiming a place of grounding, beauty, and balance.”

With this publication in Marie Claire, Renata Koglin reaffirms her role as a pioneer in Switzerland, showing how design can become a tool for transformation, well-being, and creativity. Law in full at: https://www.marieclaire.ch/renata-koglin-espace-travail-home-office/