Double take: spare bedroom to study

Well-chosen furnishings, neat storage solutions and dual-purpose accessories can provide one room with two strong identities

Choosing the right colour scheme is the key to creating a space that adapts easily from refreshing workplace to restful spare bedroom. A soft shade of lilac is inspiring and contemplative, a perfect choice for both purposes and one that will allow you to introduce decorative accessories. Elegant cabinets will hide away the daytime clutter of computers and paperwork, and folding furniture creates plenty of space for both sitting and sleeping.

Furniture

Occasional beds can be concealed inside sofas, created out of futons or folded flat against the wall.

A traditional bureau creates the effect of an elegant writing room while supplying deep shelves to house computer, printer, files and paperwork.

The bureau chair can become an impromptu bedside table to hold lamp and books, or can be folded up and slotted under the bed.

Storage

Add a blanket box or linen basket to hold a supply of linens, towels and coat hangers - a flat-topped design is best, so that it can act as a bookshelf or window seat.

Fit a peg rail or decorative wall hooks to hold an overnight washbag or lightweight clothes - these can be used for study equipment during working hours.

Add a shelf for overnight accessories, and to hold books, flowers and photos that will cheer up the study as well as making guests welcome.

Fabrics & flooring

A blind in contrasting florals and stripes will shade the window during the day and create a restful setting at night.

Choose decorative bed linen that co-ordinates with the blind and seat cushion to unify the room.

Matching throws, towels and covered coat hangers will add to this sense of wholeness, as well as bringing added comfort.

Lay a soft rug to warm up bare wooden floorboards, keeping it plain to suit the practical feel of a study and pale to match the fresh colours of the bed linen.

Accessories

A small directional desk lamp is an ideal light source for a bed and worktop, as it can easily be moved to a bedside position. A second wall light fitted above the bed/shelf unit swings out on an adjustable arm.

Pretty desk accessories keep the space enjoyable to use and make it easier to adapt from study to bedroom. Use attractive ceramics to hold pens and add decorative boxfiles and notebooks.

Add little extras, such as small soaps and shampoos, in matching ceramics to dispel any sense of a functional workroom.

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