Designing Functional

Study Spaces for Kids

August 04, 2024

I have three beautiful kids, the eldest of whom just went off to his second year in college! From the younger years that felt like a train station to the present where my middle schooler, high schooler and college kid need quiet places to study and charge devices, it has always been a challenge to create functional study spaces. As the school year gets cracking, I thought I would share my tips as a mother and interior designer with you that I have learned for different stages of homework needs throughout the years. This involves more than just finding a corner to place a desk. It’s about crafting a space that encourages concentration and creativity while blending seamlessly into the daily life of your home. Depending on their age and temperament, it may make sense to create a study space with privacy and quiet. Some kids, especially younger ones, learn more effectively when close to the action, whether near the kitchen or in the living room. This type of learning environment has the added benefit of parents being nearby to assist when needed.

The Kitchen Nook

I’m a big fan of a cozy nook right off the kitchen (preferably with a Banquette) where you can easily watch over them while preparing dinner (or organizing takeout on plates!). The California Farm House project is a perfect example of this idea. A sleek, modern kitchen flows into a warm and inviting dining area which is not the main dining room, creating an ideal spot for a study nook. This works best when it is not the primary dining area because then it can be left covered in schoolwork and returned to after dinner if needed.

Convertible Study Spaces

For those who value flexibility, convertible study spaces offer a unique solution. These spaces can be hidden away when not in use, maintaining the aesthetic flow of your home. In this Lincoln Park Wonderland example, we created a custom study space with a metal mesh door that slides over the desk to reveal a coffee bar. This dual-functionality allows the study area to be used as needed and then tucked away (along with any messy school supplies) when it’s time to entertain or enjoy a cup of coffee. This approach is perfect for maintaining a clean, uncluttered look in high-traffic areas like the living room or kitchen.

Cozy Corners in the Living Room

In homes where the living room is the main hub of activity, incorporating a study space within this area keeps your child close to family life while providing a designated area for schoolwork. The Lincoln Park Wonderland project showcases a functional study space seamlessly integrated into the living area.

Playful Yet Practical Spaces

Younger children might need a more playful environment to stay engaged. The Lemonade Stand project demonstrates how a study spot can be both functional and fun. A small desk with brightly colored chairs invites kids to sit down and focus, while a slide structure invites them to burn off extra energy as needed. This setup is perfect for younger children who may need a little extra encouragement to dive into their work.

Playful Spaces for Very Young Children

Very young children need a study space that feels fun and engaging to capture their attention. The Winnetka Contemporary Luxury Home offers a wonderful example of a study area designed with playfulness in mind. The design incorporates vibrant colors, playful elements, and easy-to-access storage that helps keep toys and learning materials organized. This space is tailored for the needs of little ones, offering a welcoming environment where they can explore, learn, and grow.

Each of these examples shows that study spaces can be thoughtfully integrated into your home’s aesthetic. Placing study spaces near the kitchen or living room keeps children in the mix, allowing parents to balance their own tasks while being available to support their children’s educational journey. As you can see, there are countless ways to create study spots that inspire focus, creativity, and a love for learning.