Homeschool Area Design Tips for Style and Functionality

amb fairytale kids playroom homeschool area

With many of our kids being homeschooled for longer than anticipated, it’s important to give them a work atmosphere that’s not only functional but inspirational too. Parents have turned into teachers, and now it’s time to transform cluttered kids’ rooms and playrooms into “classrooms”. Read on for renowned interior designer and author, Jay Jeffers, advice on how to design a stylish homeschool area that both your kids and you will love year-round.


Tips to Design a Stylish & Functional Homeschool Area


Designate a Desk

gray and white homeschool area with two desks with hutches by duc duc nyc
Austin Desks with Hutches by Duc Duc NYC, Interior Design by Sissy + Marly

If your child is participating in virtual learning, they need a desk! Jay recommends investing in a desk or designating an existing table or desk solely for their schoolwork. Place the desk facing a window or favorite interior part of the home to keep the view bright and beautiful! Even when schools reopen open, this will serve as the perfect homework spot.

Need a desk for two? And a desk that grows with your kids?

casa kids tavola desk homeschool area for multiple kids
Tavola Desk by Casa Kids

Conceal the Clutter

Keep clutter out of sight with cabinets that close or decorative baskets on open shelves to keep desk supplies hidden when not in use.

homeschool area furniture by fairytale
Furniture by Fairytale

Any additional supplies can be put away in a closet or neatly on a bookshelf after each school day to avoid buildup.

Aim to Inspire

Homeschool area design by InHance Interiors
Homeschool area design by InHance Interiors

Just because it’s a work area, doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Jay recommends using bold colors and pops of patterns in a chair, rug, accessories, or wallpaper to liven up the space. Add a fun desk lamp or crafted vase fresh flowers for some flair and inspiration.

Go wild with an out of this world desk live the airplane below!

Sky Desk by Circu Magical Furniture
Sky Desk by Circu Magical Furniture


Make It Personal

Kid's room designed by Jay Jeffers
Kid’s room designed by Jay Jeffers

The good thing about an at-home “classroom” is the ability to make it your own! Add your child’s personality into their workspace by incorporating their favorite colors, designs, books, or family photos. Consider polished pinboards to allow for personalization – within limits!

Playroom design by Maite Granda
Playroom design by Maite Granda

About the Author:

Jay Jeffers is founder of JayJeffers Inc. and author of Collected Cool and Be Bold.  He has received numerous honors including being named to Elle Décor’s A-list, and his work has been widely featured by notable shelter magazines, national newspapers, and show houses.  Jay’s retail showroom, JayJeffers – THE STORE in San Francisco, offers a finely-honed collection of bespoke furniture along with beautiful objects discovered during his travels.  Jay most recently designed two collections for Arteriors as well as a fine line of architectural hardware for Accurate Lock & Hardware.

Jay and his husband, Michael Purdy, live in San Francisco and their Jeffers-designed Napa Valley getaway, “The Poolhouse,” with their two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Olive and Kingsley.