Earthy Neutral Office Makeover With Tons of Plants | Ikea Ivar Storage Hack

Hey guys! I'm Alexandra Gater and I show you how to do rental-friendly upgrades and DIY projects on a budget. New videos every Saturday! Today I’m making over Tiktok star Loewhaley’s home office into a boho, earthy and neutral space. This home office is bright, has tons of plants and I do a DIY Ikea Ivar hack to create the ultimate storage solution!
Follow Laura on TikTok: bit.ly/3rYpJ03
Shop our Virtual Makeover Packages: bit.ly/3gBHege
Watch my Tedx Talk: • How Losing My Dream Jo...
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.
Canadian Links:
White paint: bit.ly/2Qapz5t *
IVAR cabinet: bit.ly/2X5KlH0 *
Calendar template: www.thecountrychiccottage.net...
Pendant light: bit.ly/33vZBQD
Cushion reupholstery: bit.ly/2Yz83M9
Desk: fave.co/3s0bx6H AF
Desk chair: fave.co/3mySlH3 AF
Brackets: fave.co/3ByYgFx AF
Shelves: bit.ly/3LMHlUD *
Mirror: Homesense
Large art print: Homesense
Rug: fave.co/3rYBC6e AF *
Desk lamp: Homesense
Cushions: Homesense
U.S. Links:
White paint: bit.ly/3uXm1Co *
IVAR cabinet: bit.ly/3DzZhgi *
Calendar template: www.thecountrychiccottage.net...
Pendant light: bit.ly/33vZBQD
Cushion reupholstery: bit.ly/2Yz83M9
Desk: fave.co/3k8Phm8 AF
Desk chair: fave.co/3AYvMTR AF
Brackets: fave.co/3ByYgFx AF
Shelves: bit.ly/3sPFLZd *
Mirror: Homesense
Large art print: Homesense
Rug: fave.co/3rYBC6e AF *
Desk lamp: Homesense
Cushions: Homesense
Let's be friends:
TikTok: / alexandragaterofficial
Instagram: / alexandragater
Pinterest: pinterest.ca/alexandragater
Shop my Amazon store Canada: amazon.ca/shop/alexandragater
Shop my Amazon store U.S.: amazon.com/shop/alexandragater
Sign up to my newsletter to get decor tips and products in your inbox every week: alexandragater.com
Retro label maker I use: amzn.to/2j7Ukk8 *
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
Junior editor/vlog editor, Alessandra Sconza vimeo.com/asconza
Intro designed and animated by Lindsey Deschamps: lindseydes.com
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.

[@okashi10]

If anyone wants to do the calendar - I suggest printing the decals backwards, and sticking them on the back of the plexiglass. That way when you write/erase on the front, it won't get stuck on or peel the decals.

[@vim-arie]

Yes, this is what I would recommend as well

[@KeanusRandom36]

I recommend this tooo!

[@PilarDiazSuarez]

Indeed!

[@ceciliaarevaloscanela5498]

This is so helpful, thank you

[@sarahkleimeyer3792]

As someone who uses dry erase markers way too much, I can say you are absolutely correct. Those crumbs will be stuck to that black vinyl from the 1st erase, causing it to look awful in no time and the cleaner will degrade the adhesive, shortening the life of the calendar. Personally, I want to spend less time cleaning, and I want it to be easy!

[@MadWatch]

I would have positioned her desk perpendicular to the wall with the windows, with her desk chair in place of that sofa. Having a window behind you while on video calls means a glare on your screen so you can’t see well, and it means being backlit so your colleagues can’t see you well! Plus, if you spend your workday indoors at a computer, it’s nice to actually be able to look outside without turning all the way around.

[@JoyChun0508]

Yup my husband complains about the same thing in his WFH office lol

[@WhiteRavenBookRook]

Yeah, makes sense things you really have to consider function as well as design

[@D8271]

not into carpets since lately, but if there was a better solution and leyering, it was here...also a throw on the dog sofa...(deby b. does that so well, btw) the layout i can understand for once cos the table was in a command position, but ag does not give feng shui or sometimes functionality prioritiy over her vision of the space

[@jeanninef2110]

Very pretty. Very peaceful! My thought on the desk: just turn it to face the couch...that way she gets to see her fur babies while she works! and her window is beside her so she can look out! Win-win!

[@bohochica]

A bit surprised by all the crisp whites in that room…The girl showed Alexandra a beige earthy mood board and Alexandra goes for a stark white room?!? Creams and beiges are so in right now. Just look at zara home look book. Alexandra you could have gone out of your comfort zone :) and go that route instead, which is what the client wanted.

[@birds5226]

Yess, agree

[@dkalisd]

Exactly... They really need to actually get out of their comfort zone FOR REAL. Every time they say they're, they are NOT.

[@thestripelessbee713]

I love this one! However I actually liked the beige walls this time lol. I thought the beige brought a warmth to the space and the white shelves would have popped against them.

[@stephaniea1398]

I actually think it would have been better to paint the cabinet a light sage green, or even darker. The room looks too white overall and didn't capture what she said she wanted: a very warm room with color. IMO. I would have added more dimension with color, maybe made a gallery wall above the sofa. I also would have gotten a rug with color.

[@jlammetje]

I'll never understand why people keep paining all their walls white...

[@rachaelc4762]

the cabinet reminds me of a radiator

[@luzelisalfonso2736]

I would’ve stained it. Color would have been too much. Stain or terracota.

[@marylut6077]

Definitely needs color, the white everything feels very sterile

[@daniellemartin9896]

Ideal placement for the desk would have been between the windows for avoiding glare and video issues.

[@jenniferduarte4678]

Pretty sure after the crew is out she'll move the desk. I like it but this is the second time i see ac vents been cover you need to use an deflecto cuz later damaging the ac/ heater is going to cost more than the makeover.

[@daniellemartin9896]

She will also have to remount her monitor that disappeared.

[@ginger1011121314]

really liked this one, only problem is the desk positioned with the monitor facing the window. That's way too much glare to actually use the monitor effectively without curtains. I'm assuming the client will just have to rotate the placement. Otherwise nice!

[@stephaniea1398]

You never want to have your back to the door, even though it makes sense to face the window, not good to have back to the door. The way she had it before would be okay, at least she could look over to see outside.

[@ninalushfit]

That’s why her previous set up was the ideal set up. I agree about having your back facing the door

[@daniellemartin9896]

I agree. Even with the shades, there will be a glare. Some sort of curtain is going to be necessary

[@ninalushfit]

I suggest she returns her desk where it was

[@Kath-Erina]

Guys she has blackout shades on her windows for exactly that reason, not just some thin sheer shades. I think she'll be fine :)

[@siobhanwilkes9215]

James is an international TREASURE and their work on these videos is perfection! I love how the videos are edited to 1- be beautiful, 2- be real and showcase that Alexandra is a real human, and 3- so funny! Another great video Team AG!

[@lenanavarro2578]

One of my pet peeves is when people cover the air vents with furniture. Imagine how hot (or cold) a room gets when there’s a giant cabinet preventing air flow!

[@LuckyLifeguard]

i was thiking about this too-- i think they did a nice compromise by adding short legs to the cabinets!

[@PascuBeckett]

@@LuckyLifeguard she did but then covered it with the rug

[@laurielaframboise9311]

First thing I noticed also😬

[@claudiak4460]

Noticed this right away. It’s not only a pet peeve, it’s inefficient for the home and horrible for the furnace.

[@merrywalsh2809]

Beautiful refresh, and so functional! If I may, one tiny suggestion for this talented team: use the drop cloths or cardboard to protect those beautiful wood floors while assembling cabinets and doing touch up painting. Your homeowner will be very grateful for no damage, because let’s face it, sh*t happens.

[@okashi10]

I agree! I was so nervous watching this.

[@Alayne89]

I was thinking the sofa was the perfect bed for greyhounds and whippets. AND THEN HER WHIPPETS WALKED IN AT THE END!!! You have no idea how happy it made me to see them!

[@JL11775]

Beautiful makeover. However I would’ve put the desk sideways facing into the room so she could look out the window from time to time.

[@wallywaffles1333]

Same - and so that she can face the dogs snoozing on the couch!

[@nataliersutton]

Yes, when you're working at a desk all day it's nice to have a view that's not just a blank empty wall right in front of you.

[@leahb6013]

Also she’s going to look awful with those windows behind her in zoom calls. She’s going to be completely silhouetted.

[@GadgetsGearCoffee]

@@leahb6013 alexandra mentioned she can just close the blinds

[@ninalushfit]

The makeover is beautiful. Buuttt the desk is in the wrong location, the reflection from the light is terrible when you’re working with a window behind you on a computer screen. Architecturally, that is bad design. Desks either face outside or are adjacent to the window. 😊

[@emilydenny5276]

My husband glanced over during this video and went "hey, that's my chair!" I completely forgot your partner works for Branch, we just got him this new chair a month or two ago and it's helped his back SO much! Anyway not to keep going on about it but just wanted to note how much he's truly benefited from the new chair (he already had a standing desk and it is an A+ pairing). Work from home game changer!!

[@debredhead9199]

Nice job. I would have turned the rug on the diagonal. I don’t think Alexandra understands the importance of rug pads. I’ve never seen her incorporate one into any of her room designs. They’re necessary to prevent slippage, plus they extend the life of a rug.

[@stephaniea1398]

I never use rug pads; just more space for dirt to get trapped.

[@RocketChild]

The space looks lovely and matches the client's style. Love your work as always. I wonder about some of the practicality of somethings: how to water the plants when they're up high on the tall shelves?, and using a white carpet and sofa for a dog (will get super dirty).

[@blehmeh2566]

you just take the plants down to water them

[@mwilliamson3989]

I don't know if the dogs are Italian greyhounds or whippets but I'd have included a sheepskin for them! They love soft surfaces and comfort. 😘🤗

[@suzannenewman5752]

I cannot imagine the shedding on that white cushion too.

[@josephinem.]

I really really like this one! I have been struggling with the decoration of my home office, but now I know what I like, what works and it is doable budget-wise 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@baileydobbs2532]

I’m so tired of boring white walls. Love the rest…but a subtle color on the walls would do wonders, in my opinion. But, to each their own.

[@ninalushfit]

I agree, being in this field I agree there are so many colors that brighten up a space apart from white

[@chelsealovesyou333]

I think white walls are a great way to make other colors in the room pop, but that only works if the rest of the room is maximal and filled with bright bold colors. I agree that the way white walls were used here is pretty boring.

[@aliciadanee]

that or paint the molding!

[@rna8tive881]

Or she could have left one wall beige...and the cabinet would have looked nice sage green. IMO...😁

[@jlammetje]

Painting everything white to make it "fresh" just shows you don't know how to use colors properly

[@patrycjawrobel5444]

I love this makeover, the cabinets moulding gave an amazing accent and the sofa fits there perfectly. The only thing I don’t like is the position of the desk - I can already see the constant reflection of the light on the computer screen. I would arrange it a bit differently. But it’s still a great makeover! ❤️

[@Charlotte-ud2to]

Wow, this room is a dream! You stepped away from making an accent wall with paint and wallpaper, so the plants really pop. I think you also really considered what she wanted because one of the inspo photo's was with white walls. And I really love the earthy design combined with the crisp white. And to top it off you kept it minimal, what was also what she wanted. I made my comment a bit longer because I don't think this makeover deserves the negative comments I see! ❤ Last thing, I see you guys are growing. I loved the pompom phase but I find it impressive that now you dare to do other things as well!

[@molliemae6855]

I LOVE the makeover!! So amazing!! The rattan loveseat is beautiful and although I love the white cushions I hope they were made removable so they can be washed, especially since it’s the dogs bed.

[@heidisupple3259]

I really love the basket for whiteboard markers, the calendar, and the shelf brackets. Little changes to the area that may seem unnecessary, but actually end up making the whole room SO much better.

[@danieldotson528]

I appreciate your leadership in really giving your team credit and utilizing their skills fully

[@rulu3345]

So beautiful and fresh and bright, that would be a nice office to work out of especially during these dark Ontario Winter days. Well done team AG! Also, her dogs are SOOO cute... I'm sure they appreciate their new sofa.

[@beeARTcanada]

The little short legs on the cabinet changed it from clunky to light looking. Amazing.

[@carolinavillar6252]

Is really nice to see that Amanda is so much more comfortable with the camera, we love you Amanda

[@waterbitten]

It's the toodaloo lady!! I love her tiktoks 😂😂😂 so relatable and funny!

[@Bingus7145]

Alexandra and team, you guys are crazy talented and I love you, but I am SO TIRED of white walls + white furniture. I am very ready to see some major color in your designs. Your dark and moody bathroom a while back was my absolute favorite, and I'd love to see you guys venture out of your neutral comfort zone more often.

[@beccboot12345]

But that wasn’t what the client asked for…I agree that color can be fun but you have to go with the client’s wishes.

[@MsNeonlily]

This is my first time watching one of her videos (As a fan of Laura) and was very surprised by how lackluster this was. I love the Ivar design but the rest of the room seems so sterile and uninventive?

[@lulubelle65]

Agreed. I’m so tired of white and rattan and terra cotta. And that rug. It’s a pretty room, but there is nothing special about it

[@smvvm]

Agree!

[@ninalushfit]

Client asked for a minimalist design. Different colors other than white can be used to achieve this. I hav designed rooms with bold colors and still maintained minimalist designs. Yes the images she sent were earthy. Tbh white isn’t in the earthy category.

[@sburwell75]

You created such a light and airy office/workout room. This is one of my favorite makeovers!

[@dominicdelacruz4572]

I love it!!! You never go wrong with white walls, wood tones and plants.. ♥️

[@aviajarehema7393]

Clean and sleek! Highlights IMO: IVAR cabinet, pendant light, brackets, shelves, desk and chair. Love this!

[@maryeliason1504]

White fir cabinet. Good choice. Lots of light. Another winner AG.

[@rooted.seaside]

Such a great makeover! You're so good at what you do! I absolutely love how you add plants to each space! Not that you asked, but if you cut the branches of your fiddle it will not only grow new leaves, but it will branch out and become even more full than it was! Just a little tip from one plant lover to another! 🌿❤️

[@kamiemulroy2284]

I would like to see the plants look fuller and not leggy. Maybe it's just me. Love what you do.

[@MsJillVicius]

I really liked this makeover, especially with the accents. And Ivar cabinets have to be the most adaptable pieces currently available at IKEA. I double-dog dare you to design something for a client who wants dark blue moodiness. No pink, no green, no all-white walls or sheer window treatments. Gimme some drama!

[@charlottewilson4680]

I love the idea of using nail polish to cover the screws. Get Hack!

[@DanikaBasista]

The nail polish on the screws tip is perfection! Love love love this makeover! A plus by the AG team

[@user-zp3tl4mf6f]

if u ever need an Allen wrench drill bit in a specific size for an ikea project (or other build where they include the Allen wrench) & u don’t want to buy 1 for ur drill - u can cut off the “handle”/ bent part of the wrench and insert the remaining long arm (leave the screwdriver end facing out obvi) into ur drill just like a reg drill bit. Just need some wire or metal cutters to snap off that handle end. So helpful if you have multiple cabinets to build.

[@fearless_6249]

Love this space and the DIY cabinet is absolutely beautiful. Great job Alexandra

[@OnusOfNous]

I love her reeels!! So glad you’re doing this makeover for her!

[@ruby7706]

wow! i loveeee the diy cabinets! and the sofa? and the pendant? yall nailed this! also, if yall are worried about monitor glare when you place your monitors in front of a window, nothing a monitor light cant do to help!

[@miaclee]

I was literally just typing out a comment that you should get Allen drill bits when graham busted one out!! They were seriously a game changer for me

[@heidisupple3259]

I'm moving into a new apartment soon, and am gonna be able to completely start from scratch. Honestly think I might donate the majority of my stuff and build little by little... I've always been a fan of clear storage containers with labels-- everything has a designated place, everything is easy to find, everything is basically already packed and ready for the next move.. 😂 But honestly, this channel inspires me to keep my organized and efficient ways, but make it BEAUTIFUL. 💚 Your attention to detail really pays off in the end.

[@HannahMarieJ55]

Just sat down to nurse my little one and was thrilled to see a new vid of yours to watch! 🙌🏻

[@Cathilee86]

This transformation was so good!! Love the IKEA hack and just how bright and airy the whole room is

[@Jaqcarrera]

So beautiful! I love the shelves and floor mirror and of course storage!

[@pw4075]

The console looks amazing!! Beautiful makeover.

[@karenmcneill2602]

Love your socks! And LOVE the makeover!!! What a SPECTACULAR office.

[@sofielys5452]

Your bubbly, fun personality lifts my spirits every time!

[@datkesecharles8815]

I love this whole look. You totally nailed what she was looking for! ❤️

[@ribbleslipscomb5171]

Love this makeover, especially the IKEA cabinet hack. Good to go!!

[@fatiemahbenjamin4740]

I love Alana. Always so calm 😌

[@micahlawrence8684]

Whenever you do office makeovers, they are my fav!

[@mommygarcia9137]

Looks absolutely beautiful ! Love all the plants & the white cabinet !

[@terrioakley2250]

Very open and airy love this space👏🏻

[@hollyhasegawa6095]

Wow! I am loving this space, I really love that you took and IKEA book shelf and put those half dowels on the front and painted them, now I want to do something like this. You are always so amazing with all of your make9vers and always give me so much inspiration. I am also plant freak and love the way you moved the plants around and then fit them back in so beautifully. Thank you again Alexandra for another awesome video and I am really looking forward to your next one. Take care, sending love and hugs, bye for now.

[@HAppytobeHer]

I’m gonna do a home office with ikea hacks! Love the inspiration

[@HomeFrugalicious]

How lovely Alexandra! Thank you again! ❤

[@ske3230]

I feel like the desk should go where the dog bed is, and placed so when you sit you face the center of the room and can glance over the window. That way it looks bigger as you enter. Also there is plenty of unused space in the corner near the door, a full height cabinet can fit there. This was not the best use of the space in my opinion.

[@itsmeferny]

This is my favorite office makeover!

[@whitneybryan8520]

Honestly OBSESSED with this layout!!! It's inspired me to rethink my current home office layout.

[@natashasimmonds3540]

So cute! I think this is one of your best!

[@mistyduke880]

Wow!! Just watched your TedTalk! Very inspiring journey you have been on. Can’t wait to see what more you are able to accomplish.

[@amandabell6903]

Absolutely love the pendant lights you choose.

[@marketahaluzova1153]

OMG I LOVE IT! That is incredible! Personalizating space and making the flow better. I have a littel office on my own and after big decluther i am ready for some styling! Thanx for great inspo!

[@allisonmb1930]

I just started following her the other day! She’s so funny.

[@debbieidi5517]

LOVE this transformation!!! 💖💖💖

[@nicolekraus2524]

This is stunning! Great job team AG! 💛

[@hopevashawn88]

Oh y’all did that!! So beautiful turned out so. Nice!!❤️😍❤️

[@nanagee6008]

This video combined 2 of my favourite people 💖 keep up the great work- both of you 😘

[@cynthiavan-dunem3169]

This is beautiful 😍😍😍😍😍!!! Great job again Alexandra

[@FiammaTortoli]

One of the best makeover you've ever done! So nice and stylish Alexandra! 🥰

[@lr5612]

Love the cabinet moulding! Well done

[@LorryMLewis]

I think facing the workspace towards the window is essential and allows time for reflection and imagination-a 90 degree angle-so she can see out the window AND who is coming into the office keeping within feng shui guidelines.

[@zoellaswe6635]

I didn’t even realize that my work desk has a built in power bar until I saw this so Thankyou for that and I can’t wait to go get rid of those ugly cords !

[@WrenMcNally]

Love the cabinet hack and the layout change. I think the main thing I would change would be the looped plant. I would have strung it over the top of the window. I may have also moved one plant from the short wall beside the desk to the top of her new cabinet to spread the color around and make sure the ones on that shelf were not competing for light.

[@NirvanaNavarro]

This is what I needed! Amazing job Alex & team 💛

[@hollynoone2863]

Love the room & the dog bed. Beautiful dogs. I've been binge watching all day. I think this is the first video I've seen, that you decorated a regular person's space. All the other ones' I've watched were either your own place, a friends', or a coworker. Just stunning.

[@kghartnett15]

You're so awesome! You're my favorite style sandwich! Keep up the good work AND thank you for following your dream it's inspiring!

[@lenesvingel4450]

This is possibly my Favorite. Such a beautiful result. And the pendent light is gorgeous. You nailed it AG.

[@AlexandraGater]

Thank you!! 🥰

[@leilacamuslamnaouar]

Really love the ivar hack. Gonna have to do that!

[@sammysamsam2992]

OH. MY. GAWWD..!!!! I follow Laura on Tiktok I LOVE HER so much!!!! I always forward her vids to my work bestie because everything she does is sooooo relatable (laughs in corporate) :) The room is soooooo awesome, I love the aestheticssss!!!

[@kelseyrodkey2660]

the cabinet is beautiful!

[@holdenbabyboy]

Excellent bright light workspace. Lots of storage and even though her monitor faces the windows you mentioned she has blackout shutters that should cut the glare.. Great makeover.

[@sabrinas.5072]

OMG OMG OMG and now the magic/answer of who did Laura's office is finally explained (and yes I'm obv a follower)

[@janicelindegard6615]

I just discovered Laura! She's a riot.

[@mowattlavern62]

Gorgeous makeover, my kind of style

[@sheaysczerba2842]

Love it. But… those white cushions for dogs are a no go.

[@heckyesitsjess84]

You did amazing with that cabinet hack

[@mrdanieljohnson]

Love this space, Gina!

[@tanushreetalekar9178]

Amazing transformation.. ivar cabinets looks amazing.. i might do that for my sideboard in the dining area.. love the thirfted couch too.. nit 100p sold on the desk position as i am "want to look out of the window" person and also glare from the window will make it hard to work for me.. but still looks pretty cool.. love the makeover..

[@sandieedward8214]

Diffinately Love This Makeover & Everything is so gorgeous 🥰💯🎯💕💕💕💕💕💕

[@brendasparks6234]

Love it. So perfect

[@lawrenesolberg6118]

You did absolutely fabulous. Do not understand why people that do not know your client make comments. Turned out beautifully and client happy! All just perfect 👍

[@jebageorge4741]

Great job! The room turned out beautiful…light and airy but still warm and inviting. Well done!

[@bunnyincloudrecesses9590]

The room is super cute! Cupboard looks great! 😍

[@dancinwithshepa5932]

if i had to choose a set phrase for this channel. it would definitely be 'this is such a moment'. thanks for all the laughs, relaxation and design ideas❤

[@journeytowisdomandwealth2905]

Notification Gang so excited to watch... love the way it came iut.out.. love what u did with that cabinet.. oh lovely plants

[@tlb1067]

Beautifully done as always.