Study Zones

A bright spot can inspire bright thinking.

Inspiring your student could be as easy as creating an inviting place for learning. Since your child knows his or her study needs best, design the homework spot together. First determine what the priorities are: a computer, library shelves, space for sprawling art projects? Is your child left- or right-handed? That could determine the desk's layout. Let your child help pick the desk and color scheme.

Let's look at what makes the room shown here work well:

• A wide desk with built-in storage drawers on either side updates the traditional window seat idea. The laminate desk teams bubble-gum-pink drawer fronts and sides with a lemony yellow top to add to the room's colorful theme.
• The handy computer keyboard shelf slides out of the way under the desk top, then pulls up when needed.
• Swing-arm side lamps mounted on the walls are a versatile lighting solution. They can be positioned where the light is needed and don't take up valuable desktop space. Located on both sides of the work surface, they don't create reflections on the computer screen that can cause eye strain.
• Stimulating colors on the window dressing keep the study area functional and oh-so-personal, because the colors are the favorite shades of this room's occupant.