7 Designers, 7 Rooms

Want to breath new life into your home? Here's advice from seven top designers.

A Homey Office

The Look

The first room was designed by the Real Simple editors, who created a comfortable, multifunctional space that makes getting down to work a lot less grueling. The upholstered sofette from Pottery Barn is comfortable enough for both an impromptu meeting and a quick catnap.

The Ideas

A rug by Madeline Weinrib complements walls painted in Blue Hydrangea by Benjamin Moore, which provided all the paint for the event. The lime green chair adds a shot of color, while smart-looking perforated metal bins hide extra office supplies.

The Real Simple Challenge

The designers were asked to work these three items into their creations, to show how the same piece can take on many different personalities.

• Terri Crystal Lamp by Circa Lighting
• Chin Chin Trays by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams
• Macau Chair by Ballard Designs

The furnishings in the rooms were sold, raising $500,000 to benefit Housing Works, a New York City organization that provides services to people living with HIV and AIDS.