Home Office Makeover | Ikea Built-In Bookcase + Desk Hack!

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Hey guys! I'm Alexandra Gater and I show you how to do rental-friendly upgrades and DIY projects on a budget. Be sure to follow me on Instagram for our monthly video schedule! Today I am making over a tiny home office and turning it into a dark academia inspired space!
Credit for inspo images:
Left: designed by Blanc Marine Intérieurs, photographed by Photographie Intérieure Co. bit.ly/3P1ey1I
Centre: via A House To Homey Blog bit.ly/3P2s05t
Right: home of Marin Montagut, photographed by Ludovic Balay bit.ly/42XTbnD
Products mentioned in this video:
Links marked with a AF are affiliate links. That means I receive a percentage of the revenue made from purchasing products through this link. Products marked with * means they were gifted to me from brands but I was not paid to feature them in this video.
Alexandra’s Outfits:
Black cardigan: rstyle.me/+6P0zacM1aXRm_Hy80Y... * AF
White top: rstyle.me/+RTErh1Frf141MWtf5n... AF
Headband (similar): rstyle.me/+3fsusgMhv5yUuHS3qO... AF
Black cardigan with lace: seza.ne/QMTPf7D7Sr AF
Black jeans: rstyle.me/+fJFr0DkY2mauxi_VTj... AF
Loafers: bit.ly/42xFrzG *
Dotted skirt: rstyle.me/+LxghMD4m42sI2fHdM_... AF
Links:
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Regent Green by Benjamin Moore: bit.ly/3P2QcVj *
Regent Green by Benjamin Moore (US link): bit.ly/3v2qedE *
Ikea bookshelves: fave.co/3uTyywr * AF
Ikea bookshelves (US link): bit.ly/3wKZvmk *
Wallpaper: bit.ly/3uPWf8M *
Rug: brug.us/AlexandraGStaplehurst6 * Use code GATER for 10% off sitewide, including sale items
Cabinet: bit.ly/40N8Vc8 *
Curtains: fave.co/3khvtLD * AF
Curtains (US link): bit.ly/3CXgOhq *
Chandelier: rstyle.me/+nXEwF3qcCtzk8HqaGj... * AF
Desk chair (similar): bit.ly/48AWXom
Reading chair: bit.ly/3QLUPmO *
Pouf: bit.ly/40TX7oE *
Lamp: rstyle.me/+emuY60xTIcX7oxqvG4... AF
Horse Art: rstyle.me/+sP12x-jpETSNeQxiMg... AF
Landscape Art: rstyle.me/+lSlyhaegmJ2QzbiB_g... AF
Building Art: rstyle.me/+jdm_7nOvh5FuOqGEdU... AF
Geese Art: bit.ly/3Zf4LIS *
Flower Art: bit.ly/3Zf4LIS *
Tray: bit.ly/3Zf4LIS *
Globe: bit.ly/3Zf4LIS *
Connect 4 game: rstyle.me/+vRze-XRhZnD3SGOhh0... AF
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Throw blanket: bit.ly/3Zf4LIS *
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GET IN TOUCH:
Alexandra Gater
P.O. Box 68555 Walmer
Toronto, ON
M5S 3C9
EMAIL:
[e-mail]
Thank you so much to each and every one of you for your continued support. I get to make these videos for a living, and I couldn’t be more thrilled about it.
Videographer, Carla Antonio: carlaantonio.com
Senior Editor, James Resendes: vimeo.com/jamesresendes
Assistant Editor, Madelaine Burgess vimeo.com/madelaineburgess
All music sourced by licensing.
All opinions are my own. It's important to hire licensed professionals for certain projects; if you're unsure or unqualified, please don't attempt any projects seen in my videos yourself.

[@prairiecherie5743]

Here’s a little tip. Before drilling into the wallpaper, cut a small v shape and lift it up. Then drill your hole. If the shelves are moved later the wallpaper can be glued back down.

[@gaylebagley5612]

Great tip!!!

[@debeckersley3850]

Brilliant tip

[@darylvondunker327]

Oooooo. GREAT TIP!

[@blacktiger2154]

That’s smart!

[@_serreina]

Tricky tricky!

[@Aigra]

Little tip for DIY desks like this one - depending on where your electrical outlets are, drill a hole in the back of the counter top that is big enough for plugs to go through. This way your cables are out of the way and the desk looks less cluttered.

[@mandapierce3012]

Yes! I was yelling at my screen “where can she plug things in!?”

[@LuluJinx1111]

Agreed- seems like there outlets were on the other wall.

[@lpatrick99]

Surprised that her laptop was not on her desk as this was supposed to be a home office. Where is she supposed to plug in her laptop? Where are her pens etc?

[@m2hnj]

This is the comment I was looking for 😂

[@karenustach5655]

The lighting choices in this makeover were my absolute favorite. I am surprised you didn’t have Graham put a cord hot in the back of the desk to drop computer cords down

[@karenustach5655]

Also the desk and wallpaper, chefs kiss 😘

[@darylvondunker327]

The Bank Lamp was totally awesome. I’ve never seen a white one. I’ve always seen them green, so it was very cool.

[@NightShine345]

I was wondering that too. It looks absolutely stunning, but im not sure how is Kira's going to plug in her computer? I can only assume she works on a laptop without a second monitor? But then that would still need charging

[@susanshannon1984]

@@darylvondunker327 The client had a green one but maybe it was the wrong tone of green with the chair & wall...an amber one would have been warmer than the white.

[@tinekejoldersma]

I love the classic vibes. Heavy velvet curtains would make the room a totally Jane Austin classic.

[@Yaro79514]

Great idea! Velvet curtains the same colour as the reading chair would just be the cherry on top!

[@mermaidqueen9881]

Yeah I don't love the linen curtains. Definitely not dark academia vibes

[@fionamortimore1704]

Yes I thought exactly the same....but perhaps it would make the room too dark. ❤

[@LiefSophietje]

That's what I was thinking as well!

[@jodpigbass5904]

Totally agree .. also didn't love the white poof - a leather one that could slide under the chair would have suited better.. and a richer type of blanket for the chair ...

[@michaelbeck4236]

Frankenstein morphing the two Article dressers into one stunning DIY desk is hecking brilliant. Drool-worthy, for sure. 🤤

[@user-sw9if6fe4p]

Looks like she stuck 2 Ikea shelves on top of 2 beautiful dressers.

[@user-jn1xr1wi1h]

yeah totally...its like nothing is too shocking anymore. we are taking it in our strides, but if you think about it, this project was on another level!

[@payattention31]

It’s so chic,

[@readygi]

that colour combo of the dressers/ counter top and chair was great. i think same wood tone floating shelves would look more elegant tho.

[@user-ed7et3pb4o]

Yes, I was not a fan of the shelves. Seemed rushed and unconsidered, not as good as they usually do @@readygi

[@DisneySleeve]

Graham is literally amazing. Every DIY I’m like ??? How does he know all this! So talented.

[@user-ck6ww2tl2o]

He has golden hands, everything turns into something amazing by him

[@andrewcicchetti]

and he's cute

[@chinezenwosu1345]

​@@andrewcicchettiThis!

[@MyFocusVaries]

Finally seeing someone with good painting technique! Cutting in all the way around and rolling straight up and down in full runs! Thank you, Graham. 😘

[@user-ed7et3pb4o]

I have such a big crush on Graham haha @@andrewcicchetti

[@angelaglaros]

It’s such a good reminder that desks can be created out of dressers and a countertop, and I bet it cost way less than if you could even have sourced a desk that long with that many drawers.

[@lmtorr22]

it would be interesting to compare. the cabinets + butcher block costs about 2k all together.

[@poetryqn]

The issue for me would be the dresser drawers - too deep for desk supplies, and not deep enough for files. It's visually stunning, but problematic for library use.

[@sonalibasak5213]

I think you always nail the dark aesthetic,u should do it more. I am so impressed by this makeover, the diy desk bookshelf is just too good.

[@valeriadelrio-rodriguez4953]

I agree

[@spacebar9733]

Seconded !!

[@amandawells7945]

as Danie undoes her dark academia guest room, the dark academia re-emerges here! Balance in the universe is maintained!

[@lynnemenard5910]

😂

[@ceer9141]

I knew she would undo it lol

[@lilywhite4044]

Lol!

[@RebeccaTreeseed]

I saw that too! I thought I might have to give up my zen refuge.

[@lizzfrmhon]

Her room was just too dark

[@user-hi3gc7jw5j]

Very pretty. Just a suggestion: golden velvet curtains and a more textured hair blanket in one of the yellow colors from the wallpaper. A large brass candle holder and a wooden hanger.

[@gardenhappy4]

Turned out great. The vast majority of the reveal were close-ups of individual room features and very few camera perspectives of the entire room. I would really enjoy seeing the camera pull back so we could get a better sense of how the whole room came together.

[@janycelee7654]

Loved the desk itself, was not a fan of the bookshelves on top. I know this is just my opinion, but they looked like they didn't match. loved the cozy chair and the wallpaper. Small table.

[@Jewelleanita1]

The book shelves cheapened the whole look. It’s too classy and elegant for those IKEA book shelves. They should have used the same wood tones as the desk.

[@millot001]

Agree with you

[@MaryAnneAchieng]

Could've sworn I've seen these in unfinished wood - wish they would've gone with something that matches the desk better

[@lunakzzz]

Same

[@mariasilveira278]

I just watched this episode today and have to agree I was also not a fan of the darker book shelf’s. Although everything looked amazing and you always do a great job. I think the custom desk would have looked more complete if Graham had made similar custom shelves that matched the wood stain on the desk and then added crown molding at the base and ceiling. I think this would have made the desk look perfect! And lastly, perhaps a bronze or gold curtain rod with rust or dark green velour curtains would also bring the room more character. Just my opinion but you did an amazing job!

[@Eileen_Marie]

I’m not a wallpaper person however the moment you revealed this one, I almost cried. I would love this room. The desk, the color and THAT wallpaper. 🤗🥰

[@RememberTheTrees]

Nice start. I would use maybe a golden brown or a terracotta curtain in that room, probably a heavier weight, like velvet, and some more ornate finials to go with the vintage vibe. Ideally, hang them closer to the ceiling. I hope she kept her cute old bookshelf somewhere else in the house!

[@MimiByrns08]

love the makeover! it would look even better is the bottom of the black shelf was cut off so you didn't get that 3-4 inch empy gap and instead had a foot wide gap to the first shelf!

[@darylvondunker327]

Interesting point. Although, for anyone who uses tons of office paper, that is perfect for a ream.

[@taikaponi]

I was thinking the same! The shelves would have looked more intentional and built-in without the lowest shelf. Still love the way the desk setup turned out!

[@spacebar9733]

Would that affect the stability?

[@autumnmcclain5839]

Why didn't you build slim shelves next to the desk? And leave the desk for space to work. Y'all build such a beautiful desk and then you cluttered it with cheap looking shelves. Wall paper is nice. Desk is gorgeous, kudos Graham! Light is awsome. Rug is good.

[@user-hq6iw1yv4f]

Who are ya'll ?

[@clutterbot7279]

@@user-hq6iw1yv4f the people in the video ?

[@iamspartacus7756]

The wallpaper is so beautiful! The end result was like a very expensive looking room in a brownstone in Manhattan. That desk is wonderful, the desk chair comfy. The green side chair I love. Green is my favorite color so this room is swoon worthy!

[@seseval]

I would’ve loved to see how a dark curtain would’ve looked like but this is a DREAMY office

[@kimmycushman7418]

Also painting the trim from white to dark brown!

[@anettekvam]

Loved this makeover. The room looks so cozy and inviting. So much character but still very calm. Have you ever thought about hanging the curtains higher up closer to the ceiling and have them hang down the side of the window frame instead of following the window frame? I feel it often makes a room feel bigger and it also allows all the light to flow through the room

[@manuelal30]

Usually they always do that with the curtains, I was surprised they didn't do it in this makeover... Same with the holes for the cables behind the desk... It was like they weren't their usual self, with attention to all the details, but still, a wonderful makeover.

[@user-ed7et3pb4o]

I agree, it felt like they were cutting corners in this one and not spending as much time on it. @@manuelal30

[@iamkid_a]

i'm crying at angle grinding those brackets that he probably found on the side of the road and sticking them to more free junk legs he turned into something nice.. so much work but no one can say they have anything like that that's for sure! graham is a gem

[@CorpseBride64]

I love that thrifted side table & green chair. They are my favorite things in this room.

[@tinafellman7819]

The funny thing is…graham seems like he works that fast [painting]!!! I NEED a Graham in my life….you lucky gals. Great video like usually!!!

[@christinelee3344]

Finally COLOUR on the walls, no white, beige or pink!! Very classy!

[@debrap947]

The AG team tends to go for the colour palette and mood board of the "client", hence all the information gathering in the first segment of the video. I have a feeling we need to watch out for lots of Dark Academia makeovers as it is the latest trend in home decor.

[@user-ed7et3pb4o]

I wouldn't say dark academia is the latest trend, it's been a trend for at least 6-7 years. My friends and I were all crazy about dark academia in 2017-2018 lol - and still love it. But it's definitely settled into 'mainstream' status now, alongside the emphasis on thrifting, traditional furniture, heritage patterns and colours, etc.@@debrap947

[@mossie1954]

Finally, someone who spells colour correctly! :)

[@suziejames7510]

Looks good in the main, but I would have preferred a matt wall paint rather than something with a sheen. Also I don't think the style of bookshelves looks right, they would have looked so much better if Graham had made then in wood and stained them to match the drawers. More work but a better result IMO.

[@mossie1954]

I AGREE WITH YOU.

[@katieamey3286]

Alexandra, I *love* the red lip you chose for the narration cuts! The shade suits you beautifully and looks awesome.

[@daniellebrandis8437]

what brand/color name is that red lip color?!

[@michellebilodeau3882]

Graham just continues to knock it out of the park . I think you created a beautiful space and are to be congratulated!😊

[@sonalibasak5213]

My speed of clicking on the video as soon as the notification dropped is equal to the speed of light 😅

[@annewollstein3511]

I totally agree, it feels as if I have been waiting forever

[@a.phillips6892]

Me too!

[@sandrafassett1206]

Me too

[@antoinette4568]

😂😂😂😂 same here ! Yay

[@antoinette4568]

Wow at first l was hmm those book cases 🤔 This is phenomenal! Love it. It's so jot my style but l can really appreciate the aesthetics, functionality and spot on for the clients inspo but even better ❤

[@alexandratracey8252]

My new favorite office! and holy desk transformation batman. CRAZY!

[@AdrianaColera]

AG. I follow you guys for years now, and I really like this one on its own, its moody and elegant... but the sleek shape of the dressers, the modern chair, white curtains and the very modern looking shelfs, its not really giving dark academia. I am also not sure if the pattern in the walls is too big (?). Dark academia has a bit of gothic influence, a bit of a victorian look, an academic air...it calls for a curiosity cabinet filled with little trinkets. The little side table fit perfectly the bill, and I really like the gallery walls, trying to bring it together, but somehow for me its a bit clashing. I am really happy that the owner loved it though.

[@Nikki_Cole]

I agree, to me it feels more mid century than ”vintagey”

[@arh1234]

The color scheme felt dark academia to me. I think the modern silouettes are a nice update to the aesthetic.

[@JAMoore-zz3ki]

You absolutely NAILED the vibe of the inspo pictures she sent you. That office is gorgeous!

[@lisamackres783]

Amazing transformation. Earlier this morning, I hung some of my paintings that almost complete what I now call my "writing corner". Alexandra Gater's videos inspired me to make this change.

[@claytangerines]

Love this transformation! Looks so good! My only critique is that I wish they had chosen bookshelves that were slightly wider so that there is room for her to add more books 📚

[@hiitsjess4703]

Love the room the only thing I would have added was a hole on the desk under the shelf to run cords for chargers.

[@rosehill1595]

Nailed it!:) You can tell the client loved it too. But, I'm nit-picky:) so my five cents is that I find the plain white linen curtains a bit jarring, velvet curtains perhaps in dusty green or any color close to one of the shades in the wallpaper would compliment the room aesthetic. That white and black throw on the chair looks out of place... Given Graham's insane talent this would have been the perfect opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind bookshelf perhaps with a hint of gothic, Moroccan, or Italian inspiration as a nod to the Academia style. This style requires unique world travel-inspired artifacts, a hint of sophistication, and a nod to weird collections. I'm sure the client will add their own flair and reintroduce her own dark green desk lamp as well as her own mementos over time.

[@clutterbot7279]

i was wondering if someone else noticed them replacing her green lamp with an identical white one!

[@_serreina]

Such a beautiful space. And you could just tell this person really deserves this nice place to herself too.

[@Terlaney3966]

Aha! It was Little Women, my curiosity is now assuaged. Stunning room and keeping the accessories to a minimum to allow the room to speak for itself…chefs kiss 💋

[@lwebster7100]

1. Loved taking a quick break from the girly/shabby chic stuff and doing a darker room, its beautiful Alexandra ! 2. I love your editor literally the cutest funniest persona all of their character in editing makes this show even better. 3. with that newly revamped workshop Graham is literally unstoppable.

[@gregorydaines]

A great result. Some cable management designed into the desk is the only practical change I’d add

[@Positivityispowerful]

Stunning!!! I feel like the client needs to make that a full-blown gallery wall behind the reading chair now though! It felt a little empty as is.

[@pollytiks3885]

You know your design is successful when your client wants you to do the rest of their home. 👍🏼 Love the rich tones and patterns 🤎🖤🧡💙 The desk setup was inspired! I admit I had my doubts about how the bookcases would look, but they’re perfect. Well done Team AG!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@carlamoss89]

I love this makeover! The wallpaper makes the room. Also love the giant desk space and there is still room to put shelves up above the chair and side table in case she gets more books. Love it!! Best part is that it's a small room and this actually seems attainable.

[@jaylarcher7410]

I love this. I would love to see a makeover where the office is in the bedroom. I am a teacher and my back needs to face my wall so my kids dont see my room. My background is also looks a bit like a classroom.

[@GoogleUser-wx8mw]

It's so beautiful!! I wasn't sure about those white curtains at first, but they preserve the daylight she seemed to like and keeps the room from becoming depressing instead of moody. So well done, and the AG reveal is excellent, as usual. I know I've typed this comment multiple times, but it is true: AG has the best reveals of any YT channel I've watched. Slow, delicious, enabling the viewer to enjoy every inch of the space, revealing textures and the view from multiple vantage points. Chef kiss on this space and every AG reveal. The music makes the reveals upbeat and exciting, too, without overshadowing the actual work. Can you tell I'm a fan of your work? 😄

[@inezbradley]

This is SUCH a beautiful makeover! Alexandra, as a Designer myself, I can’t help but think of what “keeps you (me) up at night”. 😉 THIS ONE kept me up after watching. I couldn’t stop thinking of how that Rug would ever get a good cleaning… This is what could have been a good idea: EITHER, attach those little stick on furniture sliders to the bottom of the bookcases before placing them on the desk high surface & attaching to the wall. (That way, the books can be removed & the Desk moved out to remove the rug for cleaning) OR MARKING the Rug tight to the Desk legs (& perpendicular to the wall, and out from the wall to the front of the desk legs) THEN custom cut & BIND the cut edges, to create Slits -to accommodate the width of the legs - U Shaped open at the wall, but closed at the front of the desk legs, so that the Rug could simply be pulled out from under the Desk for cleaning. That’s my 2 cents worth! 😉

[@tomatostellar]

That wallpaper is gorgeous!

[@denisepaul7274]

Love the room but wish the dark green walls were more dusky to better match the wallpaper and chair. And that the doors and window trim was in the same color. Oh, and dark gray curtains. Also, little clip on shades on the light bulbs for the chandelier, both for aesthetics and to cut down on glare. But I really did like all the rest

[@kanzenatsume]

Ive been waiting for a dark academia makeover from team AG but the "Sure Jan" edit was clearly the best part 😂

[@mossie1954]

The room turned out great, especially that lovely comfy chair in the corner for her to sit on. LOVE the little round cabinet and the white glass banker lamp. Not a great fan of the colour of the walls, a dark green may have been more in keeping with the theme. One thing I was not too keen on was... the black bookcases sitting on her desk, one on each side. Maybe same size but in a pine wood, that could have been painted the same colour as her desk, so they blend in and have a more chunky feel.Overall a really nice room.

[@manishamistry8567]

Always love an office makeover! Practical but so beautiful and cosy!

[@LuckyLifeguard]

graham's new workshop looks so nice on the graham cam!!!!

[@raquelpenzo6299]

lots of great elements and hacks in this makeover, but I'm always suprised that folks are ok with having their back to the door

[@karenking5357]

I totally agree

[@startpage717]

Yes. That is another Beautiful pulled together Design...Alexandra and of course Gram and the CREW!

[@drummerlovesbookworm9738]

This is my favorite aesthetic in the whole world. I can’t get enough of ideas for it. I loved everything about this room except the curtains which had nothing to do with everything else you guys did in there. The desk is fabulous with such a great work surface. Darling reading chair, too.

[@vickya.williams518]

- Unless I missed it, and I went back to look, there is no cord management "system", i.e. a hole drilled into the desktop or a multiplug discretely installed onto the side of the bookshelf and a hole where the cords could drop down or wind behind the bookcase and to the outlet, Unfortunately, those cords are probably white and stick out like a sore thumb. Great job though; love the dark moodiness.

[@sophiegeek1]

Heard Graham's last comment as "I put my fingers on at night" 😱😂 Great makeover as usual! Love your take on the dark academia style! The DIY desk-shelves combo is beautiful.

[@kirtityagi7357]

You are my favourite channel. Always look forward to your videos ❤

[@bespokenmile]

Great room. My only quibble is with the bookshelf bases, the ‘legs’ make the shelves look like what they are, two free standing shelving units standing on a bench; it would have looked more seamless had there been no ‘legs’ or if they’d been camouflaged. I speak as someone with several thousand books…

[@gavingodes]

I’ve missed you guys 😊😊😊

[@SDC1949]

The desk, bookcases, wallpaper and color scheme are absolutely gorgeous! The entire reveal is amazing. I’d live in that room… Dark academia is my personal aesthetic choice. Great video!

[@32446]

Loved the desk and the room but not the shelves on the desk. I don't get that at all. Also needed darker curtains.

[@priscillayg]

Even though I personally design my space with light woods like seen in japandi styles, I really enjoy these makeovers where the rooms have a darker vibe. There’s something very cozy about them. More of these please!

[@marilynjackson7532]

Wow👏🏾👏🏾🙌🏾 ♥️♥️ my fav part is the desk!!!! The darker wood on top makes it look like it's actually a piece of furniture. I also love the color of the room 👏🏾👏🏾🙌🏾 ♥️♥️

[@junerobbins6871]

I love how the wallpaper and the dark green paint complemate each other, making the green come out. They're gorgeous together !!

[@Idagramos]

Amazing AS always! I love every room I have seen you and your crew renovate. You are truly gifted and your ideas so unique. I love how you hear the heart of all your clients and how you take their needs and wants seriously and you deliver more than what they ask for. Hat's off to you girl! To you and your awesome crew, thumbs up! You all work together so beautifully and it shows in every single room that you all work on. Thank you for sharing. God bless you always.

[@carolhathaway5168]

Charming. But, I agree with an earlier comment that darker curtains might add more cohesion to the room.

[@avigailsumaylo6253]

You guys did awesome Team AG!! The wallpaper is so pretty and I love her desk!! Everything worked well together!! That was so good!!!

[@ariaricha8054]

I love watching these makeovers every week, but I’m not sure I’d called this office “dark academia”. I feel like that style really needs vintage furniture to work, since it’s rooted in traditional building styles. Article and IKEA are brands that are both quite modern, so trying to create a vintage piece with their stuff is nigh impossible… I know that these makeovers are probably too crunched to be able to source a vintage desk but the style would have really benefited from that. This was like… 80% modern, 20% vintage inspired. Don’t get me wrong, the space is beautiful, but not vintage.

[@LM-fn6qb]

It's lovely but I agree with you; dark academia is all about Edwardian or Victorian or even earlier pieces, rich deep Jacobean cabinets etc for personality. Old pieces of furniture with their lustrous patinas give dark academia its flashes of burned gold light which is so important to brighten it in a very subtle way. You can get this look on thrifted furniture with several coats of brown or black japan stain over a golden oak stain. Mid century modern furniture has a different personality - lighter and fresher and more floaty which is perfect for Scandinavian northern light. The bookcases could have been closed and second-hand and I think the cabinets and desktop and bookcases might have been matched, and the white woodwork could have been redone in an ivory or very light cream. But that's all my opinion and Alexandra is very talented. She did a small studio transformation recently, with a half glass wall, which was absolutely a work of genius. Because of that stunning makeover I had too-high expectations for this one. And also, mid-century furniture could have been specifically requested.

[@LM-fn6qb]

P.S. For anyone interested out there, the other stain you can use for a dark academia finish here and there is a coat of golden teak and then several coats of black japan wiped off after a few minutes after each coat. It's amazing how little sparks of the gold will still flash through when the light shifts or under lamplight in a subtle way. (I make cabinets and I'm always trying different stain effects).

[@user-ed7et3pb4o]

I completely agree with you. The wood tone was fine but not the style, it ended up looking more corporate and modern - boutique hotel, almost - than genuine dark academia. The bookshelves were also a bit disappointing to me. It's hard to make colourful modern books look dark academia, but it helps when the shelves aren't working against them.

[@karenking5357]

I totally agree with your assessment

[@mossie1954]

@@user-ed7et3pb4o ..Totally agree with you, the bookshelves were to me quite disappointing indeed. These shelves were way too modern, and the wrong colour.

[@MakeMeThinkAgain]

Another great one. Since I live in earthquake country I can't help noticing that that desk with those super strong extensions would actually be a good place to crawl under during an earthquake.

[@argilenejalgalado381]

Thank you for the wonderful contents. I watch your Videos not only for the beautiful makeover, I also like listening to your voice. It's nice to hear and motivates me to clean and do small makeovers of my own😊

[@blaquecat]

The wallpaper are just chef’s kisses

[@ceer9141]

This is how every home looked in the latest 80's. Love.

[@coriromero_]

As someone who works from home and wear glasses, I think there is not enough space for a monitor. You could have hanged one on the wall and it would have been phenomenal. And she does have a large monitor. I wonder if you could style the desk with things people actually use: keyboard, mouse, laptop, monitor and earphones and some ugly cables hahahaha That said, I think the room is really beautiful

[@coriromero_]

And where are the outlets? How is she gonna plug in everything if there is no hole on the top?

[@jeancater1388]

Lovely room. The chandelier is perfect with the wallpaper. ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@denisepaul7274]

But it needs little clip on shades over the light bulbs. Both for aesthetics and to cut down on glare

[@mariefein5544]

Everyone on your team has so much talent & skill, but you ate the inspiration, leader, laughter that is needed. Such talent. Enjoy you immensely!

[@lisaschreiber2893]

it is quirky designs like this that show what an incredible eye you have 😍 simply stately ❤

[@1TigerJo]

LOVE this! Love all the art too. And Alexandra, what a sweet, kind, good person you are - how fortunate your crew is - everyone is like family. And I LOVE your outfits in this video - it's a good look on you! Glad you mixed up the books too. ❤💛❤

[@mariotorrealba4810]

Everything looks good, except for the bookshelf. It makes the space look cheaper.

[@cmonyoureds]

Epic, stunning! Team AG knock another one out of the park again! I thought "wow, that paint colour is too dark" but that is the tone that was needed to make the beautiful, warm tones of the wallpaper and the desk set up just glow.

[@n.c.467]

Love your hair! What a great color glow up!!💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽

[@Jennifer-on8ln]

Turned out great!! I think it would be even better if the trim and doors were painted a different color, the cool white makes for a very stark contrast

[@Jewelleanita1]

I agree! A cream color would make a lovely accent for the trim.

[@HanCabann]

You’re so good at understanding what the client wants! 🤩

[@karapedersen1927]

Loved this video definitely my favorite one you've done so far. I love the dark academia style.

[@Mel-lw5dg]

That wallpaper is STUNNING 🌟

[@ribbleslipscomb5171]

Alexandra, this is an absolutely beautiful room. I love everything about it. Great job, Team AG.

[@shalaneharris5548]

This might be one of my favorites! So cozy and beautiful! 😍

[@KimSincox]

One of my faves! Love dark and moody. The wallpaper really pulled it all together. The desk and bookcase combo are amazing!

[@raf1717]

I’m in love with the corner table.. 😍😍😍

[@a.phillips6892]

I’m not even a dark and moody fan, but this is totally beautiful! Such a great makeover for this room..she loves it! Team AG strikes again!💯🤗💓

[@dorothyspillers1976]

I love your work. You have such a great personality. I enjoy watching you and your staff.

[@deh2775]

Gorgeous wallpaper choice! Beautiful color for the walls! Great space planning and furniture selection! Out of the park!

[@aleisaetheridge8682]

That's literally the most perfect library / office I've ever seen ,like what Indiana Jones would have in his house r Teddy Roosevelt lol Very very beautiful and calming ,amazing job U Guys .

[@dreastortebeker7309]

Beautiful room makeover, guys! Tip for hanging curtains: Thread a ring or loop of the curtain behind the curtain rod's suspension. This way you won't see the window frame on the side ;)

[@rachaelcederlof4858]

Such a transformation! Love how moody and cozy!

[@julialimbrick333]

Wow this turned out stunningly. Way to go team AGT.

[@judy-angedv7590]

The reading chair is also available in Yarrow gold. I would have choosen that over the green, but all the rest: BIG LIKE!

[@diasnovitawuri1939]

I love when there are real books on shelves!!! Can't stress this enough

[@danielle1713]

drill a hole in the desk for cords!!!! commoooonnnnnn

[@alondraxx33]

SO HERE FOR THE DARK MOODY MAKEOVERS!!! I love them! The desk and reading chair were my fav!!!

[@carolworkman5912]

Absolutely love this desk and shelves!!

[@arh1234]

Walnut was definitely the better choice over the honey countertop. Looked amazing.