Study time

The study is very much the male domain. Just the name conjures up images of leather-bound books, mahogany desks and some old chap mulling over life in the comfort of his wing chair.

But think of the study in the Year 2000 and a very different image comes to mind. Hi-tech computers, work stations, clean, simple lines and the biggest change of all - the Internet.

More and more people are experiencing the joys of working from home. The greatest luxury of having an office in the house is the peace and quiet, and no valuable time wasted commuting. We often find we can get through far more administration work in a couple of hours in the evening than we can achieve all day with constant phone and fax interruptions.

Designer's Choice

The ultimate in computer storage furniture is this nifty little unit, called On Line, fully encloses all computer essentials in the smallest possible space. It can even be easily wheeled to your favourite location. Ideal even for the smallest bed sitting room, available from Teemo Designs (tel 01778 421421) comes flat packed priced at around £200.

The great thing about having a home study is it can be decorated in a style to suit you rather than the typical office style. Choose a colour that makes you happy - it is your space, so do as you please. Most employers do not realise that grey walls and brown carpet tiles are not conducive to a stimulating work experience.

While writing this column (far too late on a Monday evening) we have an Aretha Franklin CD playing and a rather nice glass of wine on the desk, along with two cats and various interior design magazines - an employer's worst nightmare, but our idea of heaven - perfect!

With more and more companies realising the benefits to both employer and employees of working from home the study is set to become a part of many people's normal working lives.

Problem of the week ...

Question

We have recently moved into a house with exposed brick walls. The previous owners were heavy smokers and the bricks are stained with nicotine. Not only does it look awful but it smells dreadful. Is there a quick cure - help!

Gareth Lee, York.

Answer

To a non-smoker this sounds like a nightmare but help is at hand. Firstly buy some sugar soap available from Homebase at £5, and make up the solution as instructed on the packet. Use a sponge or soft brush (remember to wear rubber gloves) and brush on the walls. The nicotine will literally run off the walls, disgusting but true! Rinse off with a sponge. It may take a couple of applications but it will certainly do the trick.

Each week we will answer your interior design queries. We cannot reply individually to each inquiry so please do not enclose a sae. We aim to ensure all products and companies mentioned are reputable, but readers must deal with them, and follow any advice in this column, at their own risk. Send your questions to Plaskitt & Plaskitt, 8 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TJ.

Peter's tips for the perfect home office

Be realistic - the shed at the bottom of the garden may be OK for the summer but you will need something warmer and more permanent for long-term work.

Choose a space that will give you good light when possible. Loft conversions are excellent places for finding extra space in the house and the use of Velux windows creates a light working space.

Give yourself enough shelf space for files and paperwork. Use all available wall space for shelving to avoid cluttered desk tops.

Use blinds rather than curtains. The desk can then be placed under the window, and the blind used to restrict light when needed. A view is more stimulating than looking at a blank wall.

If you want the space exclusively for yourself only put one chair in the room, unwanted visitors won't stay long if they can't sit down.

Let the children know if the door to the study is closed, mum or dad are at work and should not be disturbed.

It need not cost a fortune to set up your home office. Second hand office furniture is readily available and can easily be given a new lease of life. Filing cabinets can be revitalised with car spray paint.

Buy the best chair you can afford. A well designed office chair, specifically for sitting at a desk or drawing board is a worthwhile investment. A dining chair will not suffice, it could be potentially harmful for long-term posture problems and short-term comfort.

Peter and Joy Plaskitt