You need to provide more information to get any sort of helpful advice. Show photos of the entire space, and post a floor plan with all measurements.

Also I'm not understanding the '“half wall” on the left area is actually where a large window is.'

Why is there no lighting on the first floor? How can you possibly use that space if the only light is coming from a floor lamp upstairs????

We need a to scale plan on graph paper to make it easy . Show windows, all measurements clearly marked that 1/2 wall shown . The area below must have plugins so get some light down there and you will need better lighting for work too. Can you actually see over that 1/2 wall when you are seated . These loft spaces make great office space usually. Get all the stuff you NEED then come back with that list . The desk you show does not look like a working space so maybe a bit of info as to what your work is could help. Do you need file cabinet, book storage etc ,the more info we get the more help you get

Looks like a great place to work especially after you furnish and decorate it. In addition to posting a floor plan, post inspiration photos and photos of your other spaces.

To be functional, does the office need privacy or noise control? If yes, consider closing up the half wall with plexiglass or sliding windows (you can open them when the office is not in use).

That one floor lamp is not sufficient to fully light both the office loft and the first floor. Can you add recessed ceiling lighting for the loft and additional lighting (at the ceiling, floor, table levels) on the first floor?

Thank you so far for all the questions and feedback.

I’ve attached the loft floor plan along with some additional photos to help provide more context.

A few clarifications:
The “half wall” is actually the opening overlooking the living room below.

Several people asked about lighting. Unfortunately, my apartment doesn’t have recessed lighting or any type of built-in lighting in the main living area downstairs, so I rely on multiple lamps throughout the space. I do have several lamps on the first floor, and the floor lamp upstairs also helps supplement the light below due to the open-to-below layout.

I’ve also attached a few inspiration photos.

I typically gravitate toward lighter furniture and brighter spaces. I tend to prefer white or light-toned furniture. The desk was given to me. I’m not sure if it’s the right fit for my space or my style, and I’d be more interested in something with a bit more character.

Items I’m potentially looking to incorporate:

• Office chair
• Rug
• Storage solutions or desk-integrated storage
• Wall art / accessories and possibly shelving or bookshelves
• Lamps and/or plants

Overall, I’d love for my loft to feel bright, cozy, and elevated—not overly traditional. I prefer a more contemporary modern feel and I’m really open to ideas and different layouts.

Thank you again in advance for all the time and thoughtful input — I really appreciate it.

Inspiration Pictures

Right now I’m posting inspiration pictures all over the place, because I don’t really have a clear sense of direction yet. I know what I like and what I don’t like, I just don’t know how to translate that into a cohesive design for this space.

Thanks for the additional info.

I like your desk from what I can see of it, but you can change out pretty easily if you don’t like it or if it just doesn’t suit you. An acrylic or high gloss white writing desk would be pretty fun in that space too.

Add a desk lamp if you need additional lighting.

Hi Emily, thank you so much for putting together the layouts and reference images. This really gave me a clear starting point and helped me finally visualize how the space could come together, which I was struggling with before.

I really appreciate the time and thought you put into this—it’s been incredibly helpful!

Glad it has helped you. I hope you enjoy decorating the room and that you have a space you love working in!

If the wall overlooking the space below can accommodate a 60” desk, would facing into the length of room appeal to you as it will feel less enclosed/more airy when working. You’ll still be able to look out the side window and can place your walking mat facing the view. Take advantage of the low wall for storage and add your gallery wall opposite. I’d suggest just a large piece of art.

Before you begin/purchase, look on line for looks that resonate with you.

Amazon

Ikea and add a lamp

https://www.ikea.com/ca/en/p/besta-storage-combination-with-drawers-black-brown-lappviken-stubbarp-black-brown-s89195631/?item_group_id=PG_89195631&utm_source=Pinterest&utm_medium=organic&epik=dj0yJnU9eGtoVVRhZjBFVl9obEc4dE9jWEpDYzRKRnRYZFUteDImcD0wJm49QUdMQjN0NFVNRXNHNmhZZlhkSVJ4QSZ0PUFBQUFBR283N21rhttps://www.ikea.com/ca/en/p/besta-storage-combination-with-drawers-black-brown-lappviken-stubbarp-black-brown-s89195631/?item_group_id=PG_89195631&utm_source=Pinterest&utm_medium=organic&epik=dj0yJnU9eGtoVVRhZjBFVl9obEc4dE9jWEpDYzRKRnRYZFUteDImcD0wJm49QUdMQjN0NFVNRXNHNmhZZlhkSVJ4QSZ0PUFBQUFBR283N21r