SHELVES, DESKS AND STORAGE occupy that area where so many people simply 'make do' with whatever they have to hand, but with more and more people working from home, even if only occasionally, it can really make a difference to have a dedicated workspace. Sadly many of the homes we live in simply weren't built with any kind of desk space in mind, so off the shelf solutions from our favourite flat-pack store don't always fit the bill.

A simple freestanding bookcase typically costs in the region of £900, unpainted, and a small wall-hung shelf unit around £450. Contemporary 'floating' alcove shelves cost around £195 for a one-off, with discount applied for multiple orders.