I would suggest not worrying about achieving style consistency. Computer equipment is techno-modern, so ignore it and do "pretty" all around it. Patterned wallpaper, pretty accessories, reflective surfaces and an attractive lamp are all things that will uplift your spirit while you are sitting at the desk. You might even consider decoupaging your computer cart with scrapbook or wrapping paper. If you're not up to wallpapering, try movable wall graphics over your favorite paint color. I've linked one site, but you might want something more graphic and less flowery. Just google "movable wall sticker" and you'll find more sites to view.

Of course, if you want to go further, you could change out your computer cart for a shabby chic desk and splurge for an equally comfortable, but more feminine chair, etc.

Here is a link that might be useful: Just One Site

When you say semi-finished area in an unfinished basement, does that mean that your area has finished walls and ceiling? How about lighting? If you can post some photos, it would help a lot.

One vintage style that might work - I don't know exactly what you call it - but think Edward Hopper offices in the 1930's.

Here is a link that might be useful: office at night

I am not finished decorating my girley office, but I will try to get some pictures this weekend. I have a traditional/bohemian theme and have focused on brown and turquoise. The main part of my office is my most cherished possession (my Dad's desk). It is from the 50's and I had it professionally refinished. I wanted to protect the top, so I put a pretty piece of fabric on it which I will eventually put some edging on. I use a baby blue leather desk set which is very feminine looking and think I got it at Target several years ago. This room does not have doors, but I am going to make a curtain from the same material as what is on the desk. The curtain will be pulled back to one side of the room so it would only be used when a guest needs it. There is also a mahogany stained wood/cane daybed and a Morris recliner from the 50's that I reupholstered.

The thing that reduces the techno aspect in my office is that fabric on the desk...which you could put on your table and actually drape to the floor if you wanted to and even layer a lace cloth over the top which would give you that vintage or shabby chic look. The important consideration of your chair is that it is ergonomically correct for you. If it is, then get a nice throw that will match the fabric on your table and drape it over the back of the chair. Paint the area in a soft feminine color that you like to pull in the print on your fabric. Maybe a soft heather, pink or baby blue...what ever you like...don't be afraid to shout out that there is a female present...LOL.

Place some favorite art on the walls, use a pastel colored desk set and some favorite decor items. A couple of lamps and a plant or two, candles, bowl of potpouri, maybe a cute area rug...you got it made!!!

I have included some inspirational pictures here, so hope they will get your creative juices flowing.

HAVE FUN!!!!

Thanks for the responses and ideas.

I do have walls! A bit iffy what we're going to do with the ceiling. I may drywall it. I wonder about tin. There are can lights due to the low ceiling height but I have a cute antique brass w/capiz shell shade lamp as well. I suppose I will start with wall color and carpet and see how far I can take it. I like the purple in the inspiration pic above! I was thinking a light lime green might be nice, or a light very grayed pink or orange.

As we get it a bit more finished, I may post pics and ask for more specific advice.

I choose to call mine (which is a work in progress currently at the end of remodelint) The Hens Den. ;-)

I choose to call mine (which is a work in progress currently at the end of remodelint) The Hens Den. ;-)

Ha. I like that. I plan to move my digital piano into mine as well, so it's more than an office -- it's going to be my hiding place.

Ikea has a nice looking wicker office chair that might fit with your shabby chic vibe.