DIY DREAM OFFICE MAKEOVER PT.1| Design W/ Me,Interior Design Tips, Budget-Friendly Ideas

[@justtracie7950]

French doors. They’ll provide more light while remaining closed. It’ll still give a more open door concept.

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Right!! I think that’ll be perfect and probably eliminate noise from the kitchen way better than the barn doors ever could

[@vanessafitzpatrick5635]

I agree with you 💯 concerning the French doors 😊.

[@waniap2321]

Omg so many options!! French doors. White walls like the rest of the house. Lighten the wood for the built in.

[@waniap2321]

Oh and two chairs and small table

[@eugeniatorres8557]

Hi Kayla, have you thought about closing off the entry to the kitchen so you’ll have more space in the kitchen for cabinets. Also if you ever wanted to turn the office into a bedroom it will have just the entrance from the hall. Just a thought.

[@yumyum215]

1.French doors (open and airy) 2. Two chairs and table ( Gives more flexibility with the space) 3. White walls 4.Light wood bookcase ( goes nice with white walls and white brick) 5. SAVE THAT $400! Marcus can build it, but thrifting ( as long as it's not too expensive to rehab) will work as well!

[@dorisward2629]

Hi Kayla, I vote for the french doors & 2 cozy chairs, not a window seat. Room is too small for window seat. I would paint the panels white, not that dingy yellow color. This is just a thought, I would paint the bricks BLACK. With a gold portrait light at the top! The bookcase white. I look forward to seeing the finish project. Good luck.🏚

[@justmepunkin]

Hey Kayla! My vote is for the French doors, bay window, and white walls.. but I'm sure you and Marcus will have it looking great! Can't wait!😊

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Hey boo! Thank you! 🥰

[@damilolaamoo135]

Thank you so much Kayla for the light in your eyes when you talk to us. Your joy and excitement is contagious and I can’t wait to see you progress through your checklist for the year. Love you always 💕💕

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Best compliment ever!! ❤❤❤ thank you hun!

[@TheCoco12259]

French doors are timeless and elegant. I vote for French doors.

[@euniceslaughter4360]

I like the idea of two chairs and a table unless storage is a must. Painted walls will tie the other spaces in your home together.

[@kimberlydotson969]

Finally the OFFICE!!!!

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Yasss! The time is now ❤

[@daniellechevious9094]

The window bench ❤

[@jasmynerobinson6716]

Depending on the space, maybe a desk (or an L-shaped desk) in front of the brick wall, but facing the window so Marcus can still enjoy the view outside. Looking forward to the makeover!

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Thank you hun! ❤️

[@sandrahall6046]

❤

[@ednarichardson3442]

👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@lauriebriggs9705]

I like the idea of an L- shaped desk. It provides more desk space ( there is never enough). It also allows more room for a lamp, printer, baskets, etc. A small desk always looks cramped.

[@anotherdaysjourney619]

Barn style doors, DIY reading bench w/storage, put the desk in front of the windows & bench right behind it so it doesn't block the walk through & also you don't have to be up against the wall, if space allows. Excited for the transformation 😊

[@blessedforever1]

White Walls, French Doors

[@gailblount687]

I think the 2 accent chairs and the table would make that space look simple and elegant.

[@lindamargolies7759]

Love French doors, are always a statement maker....and, yes, it will bring in more light. Barn doors are in NOW, but not forever like French Doors, or a single French glass door. Walls, white paint will be consistent with the rest of the house..... good luck. Black shelves if you paint room white...👍

[@nataliep1528]

Love your vibe. Such good energy. Based on what you mentioned...french doors, bench seat (hand plants from the ceiling, wall shelf or small almost wall scones planters), lighten the wood walls (if you dont like it you can paint them white. Easier to go that way than the other), you could have the desk located in front of the brick wall but have his chair against it, so the art work etc is his background for meetings and he can still see outside the window. Bookcases I think depend on the floors, wall colour, desk etc. Good luck!

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Thank you hun! That’s the best compliment ever 🥰

[@WillRose18]

The French doors and the window bench would be spectacular!

[@juanitaroberts6217]

The two accent chairs would be beautiful.

[@wandawallace2019]

Two chairs with table gives versatility, excellent closet door idea. Love love love the French door glass pane idea. The versatility with that is if you get tired of visibility of the doors you can always frost the windows with peel and stick. I love the idea of the picture wall with the light. Just in case you question your design maybe you can do frames of affirmations incorporating a mirror to give reflection to Marcus as he faced the wall. The mirror could be something petite or strips. Another idea that popped in my head just now is what about a world map antique color since you guys are world travelers. The floor the bookcase the desk will all be related somehow. I’m just excited to see the finished product as you guys are phenomenal with design. I’m high-fiving you already. At 65 I vicariously live through your fixer-upper skills. I am looking forward to seeing if any of my ideas end up being your decision. Nevertheless it will be great! Love you continued blessings!❤ I’m naming your C. E. O. Cozy Efficient Office.

[@michellesimonton2764]

I would say French doors for first entry into the office, a barn door on the kitchen side, and a pocket door for the closet. 2 chairs and a table for the window seating, and lighting up the pine. White wash the brick, also refinish the floors. Black shelving.

[@shantegriffin-christian8985]

1. French doors 2. Window bench will be a great place to take breaks and allow more room to work in. 3. White walls 4. Black assets for bookcase 5. SAVE Marcus is definitely capable.

[@2Consumed]

YaY new vid!! YaY the office!! YaY French doors!! 🤗🤗🤗

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Yay! Thank you!

[@2Consumed]

@@YoungLadyBusiness yes ma'am absolutely welcome! 🤗

[@MrsShanaMarie]

This going to be an amazing project!! Door: French door for cohesiveness and spacing Window area: make a storage bench so you can guarantee you have a place for everything. Another option is to make a built in desk by the window Panels: lighten the wood. It would add such a fresh look to the space Brick wall: paint white Built in shelf: lighten to match the light wood panels Can’t wait to see what you decide ❤❤❤

[@rosiewilliams5321]

Hi Kayla. I would close the opening to the kitchen. This would give you more kitchen space. The hallway could become the only entrance to the office.

[@cindyoware779]

1. Barn doors 2. Bench 3. White walls 4. Black bookcase

[@SAMGLENNTV]

Excited for the office makeover. Ok, the choices if I was doing this room I would choose the barn doors because they take up less space. The bench because of storage. White walls. Black bookcase. Desk chair should have back support and comfortable for the amount of hours Marcus is sitting to work. Thank you for asking, but whatever you choose will be great. ❤❤❤

[@Kayshilean6901]

Definitely a Window bench it will be more cozy ☺️

[@hazelldowdell8541]

I like the 2 accent chairs and table, I like the idea of the barn door off the kitchen. Less distractions, especially if you're in the kitchen. I prefer the white walls.

[@YoNikkiNicole]

French doors for the light and bench for more room and a nice cozy spot, lighten the walls to keep the original look but modernized. I say paint the bookcase white. Either way I’m excited to see what you choose and how beautiful I know it will be.

[@kimberlywesby6526]

I like the barn door and the French door. So undecided about that one. I like the bench idea and white on the walls.

[@madbabie]

French doors and window bench for sure !!!! 🩷

[@naturalgalwilliams]

Absolutely, glass and light, you're going to need plenty of it during winter months😢❣️

[@marthagriffith7756]

I think white all around. Then do light wood furniture pieces. I like the two chair idea. Whatever you all do will be gorgeous.

[@Kayshilean6901]

Definitely the French Doors it's way more of an open concept and you can definitely get some natural light pulled in from the kitchen.

[@simonebrady3]

Kayla I love the barn doors, to me the barn doors will give more of a cozy vibe. I am a big fan of window bench, something about a window bench that just set the mood especially on a nice cold/snowy day.

[@ruthreddick8369]

I love the barn doors with the panels. Also the two chairs and table would give the room an extra touch for an outdoor office space. Lighten the panel, it’s a unique touch.

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Thank you boo! ❤

[@kreationsbykimberly9231]

My vote French doors on kitchen side Hallway barn door Closet door add trim to your door Bricks all sheetrock over the brick wall Lighten up the walls but if its Cheaper to paint You can flip a vintage piece Marcus can build a seat storage Excited😍

[@babyj910.]

Make a desk. Get a butcherblock counter and standing desk frame. You can put wheels to move it around. As far as the bookcase, paint the back panels black and the shelves white for a pop of color.

[@janetmae8530]

I like two chairs in front of the bay window. I would sand the walls and lighten them up. They would pop against the German smear wall.

[@carmensiaca7297]

Barn doors for the kitchen. Keep the flow with white walls and the bankette for the Bay window

[@octaviadunbar7244]

French doors with 2 chairs n table with white walls. Do the family pics with over head lighting with black bookcase 😊

[@mandywiles3655]

Looks like a vent under window. I'd go with accent chairs. And the French doors are gorg. Def light wood walls is 🔥

[@DawnietotheMax]

French doors Lighten the wood panels German shmear the bookcase to match the brick wall. I can't wait to see what you guys come. I love watching the process.

[@benettajones5763]

Hey Kayla! The French doors would be Fabulous. The front windows are Bow Windows. They're not deep enough for Bay Windows. Accent chairs and a table would be best in front of the windows. Upholster Marcus' chair. More cost effective than buying a new one. Do your walls in white or a light creamy color. Paint the bookcases but Black may be too dark. A medium gray would be a great option.

[@stacytoblessedtobestress5800]

2 chairs with table, bookshelf black, white walls, French doors

[@vanessamariposalove]

When I was younger my dad made me a bay window with a bench in my bedroom -- I so miss it. ❤

[@crystalkirkland781]

A light sage on the walls would be so pretty!

[@unapologeticallyhuman]

I’m loving the look you have in this video. You look sooo effortlessly put together

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Oh my gosh! That is so so sweet! ❤

[@MsSmith-fq1fv]

I agree. You are so pretty.@@YoungLadyBusiness

[@kaylaross9977]

Y’all could do a Dutch door. That would be fun! Bench would give more storage. The cushion and pillows could be fun. Maybe leave a portion exposed wood without a cushion to act as a table. Or put a tray on the bench for your decorations. I think the bookcase she tie in with the seating you do for the window seating.

[@Jenna1814]

My vote is French doors, I love bay windows with a bench. I had one and loved it. You can lighten up the wood walls but if you don't like it, you can always paint them white. it is worth a try. If you paint that whole room white, then that could be your pop of color and I would do black or another color. Since it will be Marcus's office whatever color he prefers. If you do all wood, keep it all wood. I got an office chair for my husband. Ergonomics first, style second. They do have some pretty good ergonomic office chairs out there that look nice. You guys are young so if you take care of your body now it will take care of you later.

[@tararamos3887]

Black for the bookcase and put in nice wallpaper on the back. The room is easier if you paint maybe go outside your comfort zone if the bookcase is black. French Doors for sure, Two chairs would look nice. You could do a small ledge for the dog/decore.

[@sincerelytet]

I like the French doors and potentially lighting the pibe walls and the book case. I also like the idea of painting the brick wall white or another color. I love all the ideas 😂😂

[@hollypearl522]

Have you thought about closing off the doorway to the kitchen and then you could have the desk on that wall to where the chair is up against the wall and that way Marcus can look out the window (wall, chair, desk) And still have a comfy chair in front of the window to read a book. And maybe have a credenza on the brick wall for the printer.

[@gingerrackley5890]

Yay! New makeover! I love your style. I like the white walls and 2 chairs instead of bench. I feel like the bench would make the room feel smaller. Yes to the french doors.

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

I think so too! It’s already such a small room! It would be cute tho 🤪

[@DonnaCafone]

@@YoungLadyBusiness Weren't you talking about a window seat ? I don't think that would take up too much room it would be flush to the furthest points on either side of the bay window ? No ? I'm NOT a contractor /builder or even an Interior designer but my parents had a window seat in their home .

[@orawright6305]

Strategically placed mirrors, along with pictures and lighting on the wall, might reflect and bring in the light from the window and still give Marcus a view of outside.😊

[@GOGETTERDIVA01]

I like the barn door idea with a frosted panel or glass panel to still let sunlight into the room. French doors will open into the room, taking up space. If the doors opening into the room isn't a problem, then I prefer the French doors. I also vote for the 2 chairs and accent table. It's cozier and less work. I don't see the bench being used as much. White walls.

[@joyharris3220]

Hi Kayla and Marcus, I vote for the french doors, the 2 accent chairs with the table, white wood walls and white bookcase. I think you guys should paint the brick black to add some contrast.

[@rosegrayer7898]

Hey Kayla! French doors, white paint on the walls, lighter color on the bookcase, 2 accent chairs and a table by the bay window

[@Metro-p9w]

I would do the Bench and put nesting table by bench for surface space. Plus u would have more space n the office.

[@alyssiapenick3916]

I’m so excited for this make over! I know what ever you decide to do it will be beautiful and functional. I would do French doors, two chairs and a table in between, white walls, and a black bookcase! ❤

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Thank you love! I appreciate that 🥰

[@hispierce]

Yes!!! To the lighter walls.

[@deniceworks6328]

Love the ideas you have for the room. French doors will bring such elegant and bring more light to the room. I think the shelves should be painted in a soft light accent color to bring out all the wood and white tones in the room. I know whatever you chose is going to be beautiful. Those big bay windows are to die for.

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Thank you so so much! 🥹 I totally agree

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

I don’t think I’ll paint them black anymore!

[@linae8038]

My suggestions are put a desk or two by the window, the chairs and tables by the brick wall for a reading area since it will be by the shelf already. Lastly I would either lighten the walls which is going to be a lot of hard messy work or paint them white like the rest of the house and paint the book shelf black.

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Okay! Thank you hun, that layout makes sense too! I didn’t think about that layout but we will consider it 🥰🥰

[@shontajackson4289]

This is exactly my thought! My only other suggestion is a mirror on the brick to reflect light back into the room. It seems dark, but with lighter walls it may or may not still need a mirror.

[@linae8038]

@@YoungLadyBusiness you’re welcome, can’t wait to see what y’all decide. Stay warm, it’s supposed to be in the 20’s here in South Georgia so I know it’s gonna get cold up there.

[@hollypearl522]

I agree with this option as well. I personally liked to look have a least a window view. Especially if you’re going to be sitting in this room all day. It helps break up the day and your view. Also I don’t like my back to the door or a window for safety reason.

[@MsNandi-yf1lo]

I agree 100%. Plus I think it will affect one’s spirit facing a wall…like time out (Look at me projecting my issues 😂) Also, I would not want to feel someone walking behind me. Definitely barn doors are a fabulous idea…space wise. Whatever you decide, I’m certain will be beautiful. Are you going to lighten the floors also, like you did in the living room? If so, you should do that first…before you add furniture so you don’t have move furniture out to do so later.

[@LeeLuvsBeaches]

Hi Kayla, maybe close off the entry to the kitchen that way Marcus can have a desk to face window (eliminating glare on his computer screen) & it’ll give you a space in your kitchen for extra cabinets. AND paint the walls that muted SAGE green you used before that way it won’t look so “clinical” with all the white on your brick. Lighten the built in to bring in wood element.

[@julianne089]

If Marcus is going to build a desk you might consider doing a long desk customized to fit in the window area, and put the chairs in front of the brick wall. I like the idea of the French doors into the kitchen, but it might be inconvenient/ not great functionally. How often will you have them closed? For example if it’s mostly going to be open, but just closed when you want quiet/ privacy maybe the glass panes aren’t as important? You might think about this as you plan. It might be better to do a sliding barn style door but maybe make it cute with you and Marcus’ great diy skills. If there is room on either side of the window you might consider some closed/ narrow storage. You could make the outside match the door and cabinet door designs... You might consider a mirror “gallery” wall on the brick wall. That can bounce a lot of light around! I kind of like making the closet door and shelf area a color. Maybe a moody blue green. I definitely like trying to keep the wood and refinishing it light. If you can! Would be really pretty and since it’s your den, it’s fine to be different! Could be really cozy!

[@lamonshradaleleday-ramirez5493]

I like the barn doors. I also like the ideal of lighting up the walls.

[@dayah4105]

Yay! Im happy we get to see the offoce makeover. I like the idea of the 2 chairs and a table instead of a bench. It still makes it functional as an office and minimizes the distraction of getting cozy in the window 😂 I would prefer white walls.

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Thank you for watching hun! ❤️ thank you for your input 🥰🥰🥰

[@karlataylor7003]

Lightning up the knotty pines sounds incredible!

[@autumnsmom1117]

Hello Kayla, Love the ideas you have for your home office. The two chairs by the window, lighter wood walls, and the French doors are my vote. We await you and Marcus decision. Take care.

[@brownbaggin3321]

My vote 1. French doors, barn doors will be outdated faster. 2. White walls and white brick give flexibility for color in your decor. 3. Two accent chairs and tables. 4. Lighten the bookcase wood And Marcus can totally build the desk.

[@ChronicLeeiLL]

I vote to lighten up the wood on the walls and built in bookcase -- as well as french doors and bay window bench. But what I really came to say was how GORGEOUS you are looking sis! I mean extra glowing okay! Absolutely beautiful! ❤

[@carlabradley127]

I would paint the entire room white and wallpaper the back wall of the bookshelf in a floral for contrast. Someone mentioned a mirror on the brick wall, that would be great for light reflection and maybe an L shaped desk where Marcus could possibly face the hall way or window. French doors with a stenciled paint for privacy will make the house cohesive with the white paint. Can’t wait to see the final results.

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Love these ideas! Thank you ❤

[@vanessafitzpatrick5635]

I prefer the accent chairs and the table. 😊

[@sonbathed1]

the desk doesn't have to face the wall if you center it on the brick/bookcase wall. my other votes: French doors, schmear the brick, lighten the wood on panelling and book shelf. if you opt for the bench, you'll recover floorspace lost to the outfacing desk and can use a small round end table for drinks or plants

[@annettedavis6589]

I like the 2 chairs and a round table setup it gives more space not too cluttered

[@cydy121]

Exactly, the barndoors fits the year of the house, although it is updates. Make a Bay window with the bench & storage

[@elainewingate4019]

I love the French doors with a L shape desk right under the windows Oh I vote for lighting the walls up no white paint

[@IrmaDiaz-h1l]

Just my simple opinion a French door will bring in more lights to the office area also gives a sophisticated look.

[@norbertsullivan1149]

Happy New Year Kayla and Marcus !!! I’ve def been waiting for this room makeover and the ideas you’ve come up with I love !! I do have a few ideas I wondered if you considered ? 1.) Remove the closet (not storage) I know here me out. If you remove it it allows you the have true french doors in your entry way and a amazing source of light. The light from the French doors centered would truly open up the entry way and bring in the much needed light in that small area! 2.) Make the window seat work for you! It can be a great source of storage! Either with drawers or a lift top like an ottoman! 3.) I love the barn yard door for the kitchen cause it provides privacy for both parties weather you’re in the kitchen or in the office. 4. I noticed the book shelf isn’t flushed to the brick. Have you considered bringing it up refacing it and instead of wood shelves add a modern twist with glass shelves ? Or clearing that out and making it a smaller closet. That way you could add iron bookshelves to the the new walls by the French doors? Whatever you do with I’m sure I’m going to love it but those are just a few things I wounded if you considered ?? Love everything about your channel and me and my friends love recapping your videos!!

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Okay now! These ideas are on point 👏🏾👏🏾 we’ve thought about removing the closet a few times lol! It would open up the entryway so much more but Marcus & I always settle on keeping it as is!

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

I’m so happy you love my channel & these videos!! Thank you for following along 💕💕💕 also! The idea of glass shelves sounds absolutely divineeeeee!! I need to look into that a bit more bc it would be so pretty!!

[@trinaroe5132]

I know people who love wood will hate the idea, but I think I’d paint both the knotty pine and the brick white.

[@teresaharwood5674]

Loving your hairstyle and makeup Kayla! You look beautiful!! I vote for the French doors and the window bench.

[@carolynyoung5844]

Please make the brick and bookcase an accent wall. You could paint it dark and the panels an off white to complement the rest of the house. You could even sand and stain the bookcase to match the floors if you don’t want it all dark. I think it would add a masculine and calming touch to the space. You should do two accent chairs and a table in front of the window. I would add a barn door so that the door doesn’t swing into the room. This door could have glass to ensure light flows into adjacent space. That clearance can be used for a floor lamp, other accents or open space.

[@smileyk69]

Hey Kayla! Glad you're back! I vote for white walls, French doors

[@autumnsmom1117]

Hello Kayla, I agree, two accent chairs and table. I also like the lighter wood as well. Looking forward to your decision and makeover. I know whatever you decide it will be nice.

[@Locdonpurpose]

My vote is for French doors to let more light in and the two accent chairs since it’s more functional but I’m sure whichever design you choose will turn out beautiful

[@heatherwilliams5384]

French doors, chairs with table and paint book shelf black with wall paper backing would elevate it. Pictures on brick wall and lighting. I know it's going to be nice. White walls.

[@YoliBear01]

What ever design you go with will be spectacular! However, I do like the French doors idea as well as having the round table with the two chairs in front of your gorgeous bay windows! To have the small space look fresh and clean…I would paint the brick walls white and if possible,.remove the wood walls and start fresh with that and make them nice and smooth. Ahhhh…so many options! Whatever you decide ….. I know it’s going to be beautiful! Can’t wait to see what you do with it!

[@amhasezing_lee8495]

Excited to watch your home makeover series. Barn door style doors will save space. The French doors will need space when opened. I recommend white walls or a nice creamy white that bring in the warmth in and brighten the room. Adding the two chairs in the space will give you more leeway with decorating, love the idea of adding a plant and or candle.

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Oooo! Loving the idea of a creamy white ❤❤❤

[@ebonylewis1680]

I like the French Doors, Two Chairs, lighting up the walls, and the Bookcase, but what ever you all pick will be amazing 🎉. Loving your hair.

[@TheRainbowSam]

french doors FOR SURE! will bring lighting in the room and i like the 2 Chairs and a table concept better. hey to switch things up. Desk against the wall will bring more space to walk around in the room. and for the built in i really like the black better gives the same concept on the fireplace ❤

[@jazzminewilson8610]

white french doors, white wall, light wood built ins, window seat.

[@KekeVIogs]

I like the French door idea

[@kyleewebb7542]

French doors but you’ll want to think about being able to close it off with fabric treatment or built in blind type of deal so there is privacy for work. Two accent chairs and table to cozy up with. Paint walls white to lighten the space up. You could do a different color for the built in bookcase. Fun space to make over! Can’t wait to see what you do.

[@ireneromero5326]

Can't wait to see the makeover! French doors and the lighter walls would look amazing 😊❤!

[@krystallee-tanihu7643]

Hey Kayla! The French doors would be cute, but the barn doors with the glass panels seems a little more functional for the small door frame. I also think the two chairs and round accent table gives more versatility than the bench for the bay window.

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

That’s true! Ahhh I’m so torn lol

[@nishal9639]

French doors, Two chairs and table and the book shelf should be like either white or light wood. Let Marcus build the table I'm excited

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Yes! I think he would do a great job of building a custom desk ☺️☺️

[@lizdiaz-cobo5810]

Hey Kayla! My vote is for the French doors. I like the look of the barn door, but it may look dated going forward. French doors are a classic design.

[@carmenrosario1709]

White walls all the way! Two chairs and a table, preferably round.

[@patriciabrown2270]

Can't wait for the hallway to be done

[@YoungLadyBusiness]

Omg same! It’s been busted looking for wayyy too long! 😅

[@fefemob82]

You could do a bench with storage to give you extra space. You could do a hinged top.

[@alicelove738]

My opinion is a white bookcase for a more cohesive look on the brick wall side. And the lighter wood panel look to keep the room light and bright .I f you want to bring in black to help ground the room do it with some accessories like your curtain rod for the bay window, hardware on the doors, artwork frames in black and shelf styling decor. For me, French doors for entry from the kitchen and hallway and barn door on the closet door. But whatever you chose will turn out great it always has in the past!! Can't wait to see the final product sis!!

[@allthingstwins613]

French barn doors, window bench with serving tray to hold candle and plant

[@peaceofrefuge]

Thrift the desk Do the built in bookshelves in a pop of color like a deep green or rich plum color or navy blue The desk should face the window. I think it would create a nice conversation area especially with the chairs or bench. Love the idea of the photo wall with brass picture lighting for the brick. White paint for the walls. Or a cozy light but warm beige color. Paint the walls baseboards etc all one color. The monochrome look will help make the room feel larger. I agree with taking the closet door off but I would keep the entry door where it is.