Two of my favorite subjects – politics and decor – recently collided when the final images of President Obama’s updated Oval Office were released.

Photo Credit: Doug Miller/New York Times

The critics are split on their opinions of the new decor.  It certainly seems to be a fairly big change from that of President Bush’s office (seen below).

Photo Credit: Ron Edmonds/Associated Press

My first thought was that it is a major SnoreFest.  I mean, how beige can you get?  I’ve always enjoyed the formality of the Oval Office decor that most presidents (or their wives) choose.  When Laura Bush designed a smaller rug that showed-off the gorgeous hardwood floors beneath it, I thought it was the bees knees.

But upon further consideration, I’m actually really loving the Obama redo.  Further investigation reveals that it’s really a very subtle change – the large furniture pieces have simply been re-upholstered and the historical pieces have all remained in place.  It’s been said that the Obama Oval Office is more of a working office than that of his predecessors, so the slightly more casual fabrics now reflect the office’s use.  I would personally be happier working in a more comfortable environment than a more ostentatious one, much like I prefer to eat in our casual breakfast room than our more formal dining room.  Although casual, the office is still beautiful enough to be a great photo op for visiting dignitaries.

Photo Credit: Doug Miller/New York Times

Some of my favorite updates are the addition of the gold striped wallpaper and the arm chairs recovered in that delicious leather.  The designer, Michael Smith, added midnight blue lamps for a splash of color in the otherwise beige room.  I also love that the new rug features quotes from some of the nation’s most inspiring leaders.

What I could do without is the mica coffee table.  I think it’s too modern for the rest of the room.  Perhaps I should offer up my Britney Spears coffee table as a replacement?

A commentary-free video of Obama’s new Oval Office can be seen here.  All decor updates were provided by private donations (as with all White House decor updates), so no taxpayer funds were used to make the changes.

All politics aside, what do you think of Michael Smith’s room design?  If you were the President and his senior staff, what style of workspace would you prefer?

P.S. Any comments of a political nature will be deleted.  Focus on the decor, people.  My little blog is not the place for ranting about one party or another.  🙂