Whether it's at the kitchen table or in their rooms, school-age kids need space to study. Here are our tips for setting up private study rooms, as well as simple changes you can make in the kitchen, dining or family room for communal-style learners. Also, Toronto designer Robyn Clarke combines inspiring decor and highly functional furnishings in a space for two school-age brothers.
Dedicated areas
Whether carved out of a bedroom or set up in a separate space like the one coming up, a fully functional study area has these elements:
1 Work surface
Think about your child's personality and the available space before buying.
- A home office armoire combines storage with work surface. This is good for small bedrooms and for children who work independently, though it doesn't offer ample space for large assignments or any shared projects.
- A traditional desk with drawers ensures the surface is big enough for textbooks, notebooks and a computer. If you need to monitor computer use, put the computer in a common area.
- A convertible desk/drafting table is good for young artists.
2 Seating
Pick a sturdy, comfy, adjustable desk chair (for growing bodies).
3 Lighting
Use task lighting at the desk, and general ambient lighting in room.
4 Shelves
Display frequently changed items like posters, calendars, artwork and photos of friends on shelves.
5 Wall-mounted hooks
Hang backpacks on sturdy wall hooks; include additional hooks for gym bags.
An over-the-door shoe holder is excellent for organizing school supplies.
6 Wall pockets
Keep a few near the desk for current papers -- label by subject.
7 Artist portfolio
Use an artist portfolio to stow flat pieces of art and oversized papers (like those bristol board collages of the solar system). Stash under the bed or in the closet.
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