Design 101: Back-to-School Basics
Posted on August 31, 2012 by jbutler in Trendy Tips
It’s that time of year again: the first day of school. So, what better time than now to re-share some design tips from Drexel designer Denise Alala on how to create the perfect workspace for homework? Happy studying!
The first day of school is like New Year’s Day. Just ask any parent – like Denise Alala, our chief fashion guru and mother of two. In celebration of this “new year,” we asked Denise to share some resolutions on how to make homework a little less like work (for everybody):
Idea #1: Workspaces need to be flexible and so do you.
Don’t limit your hardworking student’s creativity by confining homework to one room or one spot. Today, everyone is a multi-tasker, especially your kids. Be happy homework is happening anywhere! Denise recommends keeping things uncluttered and ready for work, just in case. It could be an oversized ottoman in the living room or rugs and pillows on the floor. Denise says, all space is workspace!
Idea #2: Take one for the team!
Be open to group workspaces, as school projects are often team-oriented (kids learn about collaboration early)! This means the kitchen or dining room table should be ready for work on a whim. Denise works hard (it looks effortless) to make her house kid-friendly and welcoming. And it’s great to be the hub, she says. You don’t have to wonder where your kids are!
Idea #3: Embrace battle scars; they’re memories.
If your dream home is perfectly appointed with every item in place, “get over it” advises Denise. We love fine furniture and beautiful interiors, but we love our kids more. “Furniture is for living,” to quote Denise directly. Accidents will happen. Follow furniture care tips and embrace the little nick or smudge of tempera paint. It’s a memory in the making.
And while learning can happen anywhere, we can’t forget the classic desk and chair combo. Denise recommends the Bailey Desk paired with a custom upholstered chair. A dynamic duo for homework for kids and parents alike.
We hope these tips will inspire you to create a home environment where learning is not only the norm – it’s fun. Class dismissed!