Making Over My Boyfriend's Home Office *ONLY ALLOWED TO BUY ONE NEW ITEM!*

Thank you to HP for sponsoring this video. Click here for more information on the HP+ Smart Printing System: bit.ly/3j25CtQ. #HPInstantInk #BrandPartner
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! In this episode of My Rental Reno, I'm tackling Noah's home office! He wanted an industrial-style home office makeover with an added challenge: I could only buy one new item!
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:
Credenza: fave.co/381hBkM AF
Chair: (similar) bit.ly/2OFsYoy *
Rug: fave.co/3D5A25V AF *
Desk: fave.co/2XEKp0h AF
Desk chair: fave.co/37Xn4Jg AF
Art print: etsy.me/37XBrNL
Ceiling light: amzn.to/3mmec8m AF
Whistler art: fave.co/3zbAeyb AF
Stowe Mountain art: fave.co/3z9SCHE AF
U.S. Links:
Credenza: fave.co/3gjDAYK AF
Chair: (similar) bit.ly/2OFsYoy *
Rug: fave.co/3D5A25V AF *
Desk: fave.co/3k8Phm8 AF
Desk chair: fave.co/3AYvMTR AF
Art print: etsy.me/37XBrNL
Ceiling light: amzn.to/37YnejF AF
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GET IN TOUCH:
Alexandra Gater
P.O. Box 68555 Walmer
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M5S 3C9
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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/jame...
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.

[@VeganChickInOz]

I’m loving the challenge of using what you have. We don’t need to completely re-buy a rooms worth of furniture every time. More like this! Loved the after, such a welcoming space ❤️

[@mylifeinanutshell6931]

Also get together with a few friends and swap stuff you are trying to unload...I mean rehome 😁🤣😅

[@trishpipkins]

I thought your chair wouldn't look right but it totally does! That bookshelf is amazing. Seriously beautiful. Great job. I demand pics of Noah and Lottie having read time. 🤣💖🐈‍⬛

[@PromisedJubilee]

It's so cool how the rug brought out rusty tones in the chair. It totally looks like a different color!

[@RiddimKingdom]

Reducing, reusing, upcycling and repurposing is the way of the future. We have managed to make over an entire 5 bedroom house with ALL reclaimed furniture

[@1TigerJo]

I didn't see your comment before I commented above to do an entire space this way. Thank you! We're on the same wavelength. I love that you did this, even builders are doing this to build homes, reusing materials. I once saw a restaurant redo their decor, and they literally had a dump truck where they tossed beautiful tables and chairs - it was shocking to see that.

[@KelseyDrummer]

I love reclaiming furniture! I have some ratchet side tables I'm going to spice up, because I didn't they'd probably end up in the dump.

[@amandakwolyk3711]

Paint the bookshelf wall that navy color you painted his living room. It would make it so moody and warm!

[@Cathilee86]

I love the way your style shows through but Noah's taste is the primary focus. Also, Noah talking about story time with Lottie in the reading nook was just so cute

[@carlyh6913]

Hahaha she killed me with her expression when he said the adorable thing about Lottie. Her face was like ”My child and my man, reading together 🤣🥺”

[@meriahmakes6870]

Be careful with the hand weights being right on the furniture. The coating most of those have will eat away at furniture finishing. Put a placemat or something under the weights to protect the furniture finish!

[@SuperLunchable]

I didnt know that, thanks

[@meriahmakes6870]

@@SuperLunchable happy to spread the word. I’ve seen many photos of people’s furniture getting ruined from them!

[@udlove09]

What! I need to go move the weights!

[@LuckyLifeguard]

bumping up so other folks can see!! i didn't know this either

[@meriahmakes6870]

@@LuckyLifeguard I learn a lot from product reviews - there are tons of photos of damaged furniture finishes from them. Hope more people find out before it’s too late!

[@hjcabc]

That bookcase and light fixture are both unique AND absolutely made for each other! The whole office is a great mixing of old and new!

[@kirstenrubberducky]

As if I didn't love James enough, we're now getting The Princess Bride clips thrown in?!

[@pwr2th3peaceful]

His reaction was really sweet. I feel like he's not super emotive but you could tell he was really pleased. Love that

[@leanneb6622]

Noah's so lucky to have you. That office looks AMAZING. He didn't even comment on you buying 2 things 🤣

[@AlexandraGater]

And I’m just as lucky to have him! 💕

[@munkeyzoo]

Three if you count the print ☺️

[@m.maclellan7147]

@@munkeyzoo I am pretty sure that was a "freebie" from HP, who sponsored the video !

[@AlexandraGater]

I actually purchased that a while ago for a different makeover and printed it again for this one (the beauty of downloadable art)

[@JaZmine147]

@@AlexandraGater I remembered it and was wondering why you printed it again instead of using the old one. But it's cool that you can have it in 2 different spaces as well.

[@outoftheburrough]

I'd love to see the sloped ceiling and short wall below the window (& maybe the flat section of ceiling) painted in the matching navy, I think it would throw a different slant on an accent wall & keep a lightness but also a dark broody moody aspect to the room

[@senselessrose]

Noah's Rug and your chair were made for each other. It looks so good. Love the shelves too, and the light was definitely worth the splurge and rule bending. It was a really great price and really does pull it all together.

[@user-gd5qg6vs7g]

Hi Alexandra! I am a huge fan from California. I started watching you about a year ago when I suffered a medical emergency. Your show really helped think less about my circumstances and so it’s become a comforting space that I enjoy. You make it look do easy but I know it’s a lot of work! I just wanted to share a great tip for storing files that I’ve used in my home. I hate metal filing cabinets, so we stored our files in baskets on our book shelf. You can actually store hanging files using the sides of basket as the base and then place the folders in the hanging file. You don’t need the ugly the metal frame! Hope this idea works for future reno inspo. 😊

[@WebcrawlerGal]

It looks great!!! You are right they are so expensive. I had found a small metal filing cabinet at goodwill (about $ 8.00). Removed the handles and spray painted it expresso to match my printer cabinet. The drawer was covered with rustic contact paper from amazon to match the desktop to giving it an industrial look. Then I added the handles back on the file cabinet. And lastly, I added the caster wheels, from eBay, so I can move the cabinet around and back under the desk. The estimated total price was under $30. I got the idea on a KZbin video.

[@cindicopeland9731]

I love Noah! He seems so laid back & willing to just give you free reign- to a point. What a great challenge!

[@cindysand4012]

I love the way James edits! 😄

[@AlexandraGater]

Me too! He is truly the best of the best.

[@1TigerJo]

@@AlexandraGater But so are you Alexandra. You're a joy to watch.

[@Linv4nT]

With all the skiing art, I really thought you'd hang up the ski's as decoration. So I guess i'm just a little sad they're just stuffed into a corner.

[@KattEyl]

That navy color would have looked good on at least one wall. It kind of looks like it could be your office.

[@not-a-ghost2206]

No i dont think so -its Noahs Rug, his trunk, his credenza, his familys lamp, the industrial style is his and just because she added her chair (as was requested by noah by the way!) and not a dark colour on the wall, doesnt make it "her room", just because one feature is missing. Alexandra even said in the comments that they're maybe gonna paint in the future. So maybe they wanted to see first how it turned out and then decide on a dark feature, which is almost impossible to get completely rid of. Have you ever painted and painted over dark walls? It would've been true in the past but i really think her way of styling changed. Remember, noah may have changed too, since entering a new relationship! Its not fair to jump on her with "thats your style!!" Because, in this video, its generalizing a lot.

[@jayhulrs1435]

Also the living room has a pink couch. I doubt that is Noah’s style

[@not-a-ghost2206]

@@jayhulrs1435 yes we already had that discussion under the living room makeover, it would be nice if you wouldn't bring up old things

[@not-a-ghost2206]

@maroxa's condo exactly what i'm talking about! It takes time for such a strong decision, maybe they're waiting before taking such a strong step

[@sandrah4358]

Love that overhead light fixture- makes the whole room sing

[@reetzoriontwo]

This space turned out great. Amazon has a woven seagrass file box that would be perfect for this office. It has a lid and it's on casters for easy maneuvering.

[@jillsebestyen9039]

Do you have the link?

[@Kath-Erina]

Omg yes please link it!

[@pepermuntkermit]

I would like to work there too :) The only thing that worries me is the placement of the desk. I get it, from an aesthetic point of view it looks best but Noah’s eyes might not like it in the long term. The contrast between window and screen is too high and can lead to headaches etc. (had to put in a word from a health and safety perspective 😁)

[@mojoholo9529]

You’re Noah is a game guy. It’s so nice to see you working together, and to see him let you do your thing. Wishing you both the best and happiness.

[@donnab8010]

Somehow the room looked bigger. I love the color scheme. Alexandra, you're amazing.

[@aviajarehema7393]

Another great home office makeover. Highlights IMO: Credenza, Chair, Rug, Desk, Desk chair, Ceiling light, art print. BTW, isn't this the same room that eventually the IKEA Pax system closets painted in an olive/army green type color scheme were placed on the wall (where the steampunk pipe type shelves shown in this vid ) ended up?

[@carriekaron2561]

I think you should make an all day video of Lollie. I love her🙋‍♀️💕🙋‍♀️💕😻😻😻

[@lindap9079]

Thank you for saving the trunk from being thrown away. It is beautiful.

[@petranilla14]

Love it. You should have painted the wall behind the bookshelf black as a nod to his past livingroom.

[@natmanzoccothriftdiy1222]

I dig this a lot! Awesome example of working with the stuff you already have (and making carefully chosen additions)!

[@natmanzoccothriftdiy1222]

also I have a Branch chair, it rules

[@sheenabyrne1200]

Just got the notification that you posted a new video. I haven't clicked so fast in my life. Thank you for all the wonderful work you do and sharing your talent. You and Noha are so cute together.

[@AlexandraGater]

Sweetest comment, thank you!

[@Nefertsukia]

I love how this turned out! Great reuse of what you already had, I think it's also important to promote the fact that we can recreate spaces with a sprinkle of creativity, resourcefulness and using items we already own. :)

[@CorpseBride64]

This office is so warm and functional, I truly love it. My favorite thing is still the rug, which I remember so well.

[@lr5612]

It turned out amazing, love how your design style has evolved over time, I guess your taste and Noah's is a perfect harmony (even if it takes a little fighting to get there 😂)

[@hildat1907]

Little fighting is healthy, means both are engaged in the project.

[@margaretorden7568]

I really like the shelving and the fact you used a small business. Having a view of trees from where you work is a real boost - I’m lucky to have this where I work too. The office looks so stylish. Noah now has a comfortable and inviting place to work. Well done!

[@junerobbins6871]

I love this office makeover. Im hoping that I get an office for my crafts when I get on my sons property.

[@discoQueen127]

Wow my notifications actually worked! 🙌🏼 I’m here! 😄

[@MonK3yzUnkL]

I am a fan of that ceiling light purchase. Adorable!

[@SuperAxlgirl]

The space came together beautifully. The rug looks gorgeous there. Love all the hand-me-down pieces.

[@divinerdetective44]

The rug and the chair together really make it and bring so much warmth to the space.

[@eeleye99]

I love James' editing - the sassy jokes always crack me up!

[@nawaisena]

I always like when you decorate men room. It does look manly, but still look great. I love this episode so much.

[@nancys4775]

Love the room. Also, you and Noah are just adorable! This is coming from someone old enough to be your mom. : ) One of these days I'm going to send you a picture of my AG inspired office. Just working on the last part right now. You continue to inspire this 57 year old woman.

[@1TigerJo]

I've watched a lot of decor videos from various people and out of all of them, Alexandra is my fave, not for the decor, though I like much of it, but because of her, she's a delightful human being - a joy to watch, she brings a smile and a lightness. And now that she and Noah found each other, I'm so happy for them and love their blend. I'm 70, and love the artists studios and homes interiors like Picasso and Calder - so I love seeing more color that Alexandra loves.

[@karenv525]

Looks fab. The carpet & chair colors go so well together, such beautiful warm tones, and it pairs well with the bookshelf and it's color coded books. Great job.

[@ellengates7843]

The room looks so large now that it is "styled". Love the new overhead light!!

[@sfowler1017]

Some cable management and a wastebasket still needed but I like the vibes.

[@nvonedge]

And something for those files. I can’t understand buying a bookcase and not figuring out a better way to store files in an office

[@sfowler1017]

@@nvonedge Yes! Most definitely.

[@andrewandleatadraper519]

I love that Noah is involved and that he knows what he wants. My husband is what ever you want dear. Greetings from Perth , Western Australia 🇦🇺

[@millymathurin7044]

3:38 James response is iconic 🤣

[@therockinwomanify]

Glad ONE of you is environmentally and budget conscience.

[@heidil.4651]

Office looks awesome but the best part is the two of you in the beginning discussing the makeover. Y’all are cute and funny together. He definitely seems to try and keep you grounded in a kind and loving way. Lol.

[@deirdreclinch6223]

wow wow wow wow wow its beautiful.......love that you used items from both your homes.....its much better for our planet & ties in really well with the HP ethos xx

[@agresticumbra]

Grateful Noah was pleased. Like seeing all the reused pieces. I’d like to know if Noah ended up rearranging the bookshelf, because sorting by color might be a vibe, or an aesthetic, but not the most practical when reaching for specific books. Maybe it makes a difference if you don’t have a ton of books, but we have over 6 near ceiling height bookshelves, and the culprit might be murdered, or at least thrown into an oubliette, if this was tried in our abode. 😆😐

[@H312l1na]

love that he's pushing you slightly out of the comfort zone and encouraging you to exercise more creativity in ways you didnt think of before

[@ruthanderson1758]

I had an HP printer and I was forever buying ink and it was really expensive. I was so frustrated with the HP ink situation that I purchased an Epson ET-2760 and am very pleased with it. It has bottles of ink and a window on the front of it that shows you the levels of ink left in the machine. I always print in colour and after almost two years of daily use, I've only used about half the ink that came in original bottles that were included with the machine. It was a more money than I wanted to spend on a printer at the time but I don't regret it for one minute - this machine suits my needs perfectly.

[@mangomus]

Also, Noah's face when you said about renovating the kitchen 😅 "greeeeat"😅

[@malindarayallen]

I'm literally watching this as I redo my office. 🗄️🖇️📋📔🖥️🪴

[@musicbymer]

Alexandra you outdid yourself with this make over !!! The rug with the chair and the light fixture really made a difference . It looks much bigger and really lovely !!! Congratulations.

[@donnaallgaier-lamberti3933]

LOVE THE MCM crewdensa AND that black chest piece-lucky Noah....SUGGESTION:: Put the printer paper into a basket or container....I see filing cabinets on Marketplace all the time.

[@DeepanshiNagar]

I wish you would have stained the desk, credenza and the bench to be the same colour.. And also a dark accent wall! But it looks beautiful like all the rooms you make over. :)

[@stefaniemikesz2682]

Favorite room in the house. It combines both style very nicely. Love it

[@malindarayallen]

Okay, Refinery 29 needs to do a Hair Me Out work Alexandra getting subtle rainbow highlights to look exactly like how the rainbow his her hair from the window. 💇‍♀️🌈

[@peggynorton5535]

Gorgeous!! Love the shelving unit. So neat that you tied all your previous stuff together and made it so cozy.

[@BeautyandtheBronx]

Very cute and cozy! I was missing you painting an accent wall but it looks semi-moody anyway ✨

[@user-rn5eu4hn1t]

I like the office very much. This second home, I don’t find to be so cohesive in the decor has your 1st one, maybe because 2 persons, and not one. I guess it made more sense the pompoms girly aesthetic in your previous tiny home. I would put the living room more adult. And the bathroom. Anyway it's your home, enjoy. I had a previous home of mine with a very different aesthetic, the one where I am now is more greys and blacks and minimal.

[@ghassedir]

AHHH! In trying times, these videos are such a balm. Making peaceful spaces is so important. Also, shout out to patient and supportive partners. Here at the end of 2022, I am deep into planning for a major overhaul on a new space I’m moving into. My own partner has wanted to update his space for years as well, and now I’m all like MAKE A MOOD BOARD and he’s like - make a what, dear? I did get him to look at furniture options, so we’re making some progress. I’ve been bingeing this entire series over the last week or so, and I am brimming with inspiration for my move. That’s a big deal! Thank you for all you do.

[@NeFordo]

Great home office space. Shows you can use mostly what you have already and it still get the job done in a whole new way.

[@antiquesrestoration3874]

I love that he added a challenge into the makeover. Well done.

[@lbgr830]

You guys are so funny. The comment “we’re mixing shelves” is a couple moving in together in a nutshell 🤣😂

[@Nikki_Cole]

Why does seeing couples in youtube videos make me so happy??

[@elsaweber4323]

I love that you always have some minor imperfections (in this case the holes left by the tract lighting) but you just keep cheerfully moving forward. Mainly your love of the process is what is so contagious. Everything doesn't need to be perfect. That's a good lesson for me and one of the many reasons I enjoy your channel.

[@opalmoon2256]

Great job!!! Love it...wasn't to sure about the chair but looks perfect with rug..new lighting👍 sooo much needed!!!💙💙💙

[@debbiethompson6240]

Wow, I like Noah's office came together nicely. My only thought was where is the wastebasket? If he doesn't look in the basket he may think it is for his trash!!! Lol Seriously good idea to corral the files, papers to file, etc in a beautiful basket.

[@janetd4862]

Turned out nice! Don’t know which direction that window faces…will he have sun in his eyes as he works there? My fiber arts studio ended up needing window coverings because late afternoon the sun was blinding. That wasn’t in my original plan…all I was thinking was, “Yes! Natural light!”

[@gglydie4242]

Yes, I have found in my own study that the natural light beaming from the window straight on to my eyes, then my eyes trying to focus on the illuminated screen for a day of work is very hard work on my poor eyes. Some kind of blind is on that window I think, so it can be drawn when the natural light is too bright.

[@janetsweeney7432]

looks great. would love to see a dark accent wall.

[@marybethlongstreth186]

This is one of the BEST!! I love how the recycling of things made the room come alive. The colors, Noah's style, purchased only 2 items. Fabulous!!!!

[@mimitruong5598]

Amazing to bring items you already have to give a space a fresh new look! One thing I'd point out is that from a Feng Shui perspective, that desk with your back to the door is not the best way to invite strong and positive chi (or qi) into the space....if you're into that kind of thing......Otherwise, always love your ideas and the rooms you create :)

[@janetiremonger9609]

Honestly, I think you can take any room and any pieces of furniture and turn it into a beautiful space that would be beautiful afterwards. You are so talented!

[@AlexandraGater]

Thank you so much!!!! 💕💕💕

[@user-rn5eu4hn1t]

It's funny how we can have two homes so different and still love both

[@NO-ib1ip]

Love the rug. Coloured walls would look amazing.

[@mslafave5689]

Of course I would consider putting a credenza in my office! Credenzas are made for offices, and I have one in my office.

[@evynnschlender3378]

You can buy collapsible frames for hanging folders (on Amazon) and place them in the storage trunk as a good solution for all your files 👍🏻

[@mapleleaf0]

Interesting idea

[@brittanymason2257]

James’ edits in this killed me😂 hi James, you rock!

[@Liza03V]

I have to admit that you are such a nice couple. So lucky to have one another. The office is stunning! So masculing but so industrial. Hope to create the best memories in this house turning it into a home. Well done!

[@ulqulqu]

I always feel like "that's not gonna work, that's not gonna work" but then it always does and I'm amazed. 👍👍

[@lucillea-r9568]

Building my home right now and for the 1st time I am gonna have an office gotten lots of ideas thanks

[@nozztozz]

I just discovered Branch Furniture! Funny that you mentioned them. I love them!

[@JaiSanthosh09]

That office looks beautiful! And you've committed the ultimate crime of separating the Harry Potter books collection! 😯

[@christineadams796]

I love your boyfriend's office I love the new light fixture and the bookshelf those are my favorites but I love the whole room you did a fantastic job I knew you would I'm really glad that he likes it that's what matters most

[@laurenragle5228]

I love the idea of using a credenza next to the desk. Storage is ALWAYS a problem for me. Or I have too much stuff? I dunno. Also, the sponsor for this video is perfect timing because I desperately need a printer. ❤️

[@Rita123xyz]

You make everything look so good! Very talented and great taste.

[@candicelynnathome5282]

Wait Noah's old apt was LEGIT! I ❤'d it!

[@fitzroy5862]

absolutely gorgeous! Love how you 'shopped' your old places to pull this together. lucky Noah!!

[@nvonedge]

It looks great! I’m setting up a home office right now. I know you had a no spending challenge but I think a desk organizer, some cable management, and a file cabinet or letter tray for the files would be more realistic,finished, and adult.

[@nvonedge]

Pam A. But there’s no organizer on the credenza either. I saw the printer paper and his notepads in the cubbies but not any other supplies. If there are more organizational elements in the credenza I would have liked to see them!

[@AlexandraGater]

There are two large cabinets behind the doors of the credenza that hold my Cricut supplies and other items that belong to Noah.

[@1TigerJo]

@@AlexandraGater You're very organized, and that's another thing I like about what you do. I have put files in a basket before, and it's right there, even easier than a bulky cabinet and having to pull out a drawer. It also keeps it cleaner, not over storing too much stuff.

[@hannahsmith9130]

i want to see this room at night with all of the lamps on, i feel like it would be so cozy

[@ksk881]

Ouch! Stubbed your toe so hard that you almost barfed ! Been there done that. I usually just get dizzy and have to lay on the floor. Seriously though, this office makeover is really wonderful. My office is my lap ! I love the HP Instant Ink plan. Now I never run out of ink plus I change the plan based on my usage for copies printed. So easy !

[@francesw.2666]

A little box or basket for the wound up plug wire on floor behind that stunning leaning lamp? Room looks terrific. The rug really is perfection.

[@MsCdngrrl]

I would have liked to see some darkness like Noah suggested. The room is beautiful but I would have loved to see it be more of a cozy, darker library space.

[@AlexandraGater]

This was just the beginning! I definitely think the room will evolve over time. I love the idea of painting it dark!

[@MsCdngrrl]

@@AlexandraGater thanks for replying. I loved the room, that light is everything!! The office perfect for the house, it was just a bit different than I expected, but I’m also a love a dark library look 🖤🤍

[@angelaglaros]

Lovely vibe, it’s light and bright but also very Noah!

[@AysKuz]

The room looks lovely. Color coding books is still a huuuuuge no no for me.

[@Idontwantachann]

So, I really appreciate the balance between you two. He’s so practical in challenging you to use what you have. I wish I could pull it together with what I have like you did!

[@EmmaVB82]

This is a really great room makeover, and does a great job at giving Noah all the things he needs and requested in his office, blending both of your design styles so it looks cohesive with the rest of the house but still his own (though I have to admit, I was hoping for a darker moodier accent wall in there somewhere, like a lighter version of what was going on in Noah’s old living room! But mostly because I’m a sucker for dark and moody offices *looks around at current living-room-office with all the walls still white from when I moved in… 😒*, and also making use of things you already had! I think the light fixture was a totally necessary bending of the rules (I also love globe lights with opal glass shades, and I’m definitely going to get some of these in my flat when I get to the “make things pretty” stage!), and I’ve been coveting that frame chair from Article for ages too (it’s one of the pieces we definitely have on MADE.com in the UK as well). What I’m saying is, double thumbs up! 👍👍😄

[@lourlopezsk]

This is one of my favourite makeover of yours only because most of it was repurposed. This is so much more realistic than buying new items! And it's much better for the environment ❤️