1-3. Make the desk the room's focal point.

4-8. Create a comfortable corner for reading.

9-14. Shelving, storage cubes and a console table add extra work space and encourage organization.

15-16. Window treatments control sunlight and make the room feel cozy.

17-19. Add personality with accessories.

Tell us about your design challenge: Find out how

Wendy Grills has dubbed this 14 1/3-by-8-foot room the "stupid room.... because she has no clue how to functionally decorate the room," the couple write in an e-mail. It used to be a playroom for their two children, but it has sat empty for the past 12 years. Wendy would like to transform it into her office. But the layout poses a challenge: It includes the back of a brick fireplace, two doorways without doors, floor vents and windows.

Rooms with natural light can handle strong wall colors. Minimizing glare on the computer screen should be a factor in deciding where to put a desk. Furnishings should add personality and encourage organization.