Designating room for homework in your new custom home sets aside space that can be used for studying. It’s much easier before construction starts and the floorplan is finalized to set aside room and specify the built-in features that make it homework easier.
Simple Options
The two simplest options are to design homework space into each secondary bedroom or to set aside a convenient place whose sole purpose is for studying. Building it into each child’s bedroom gives them the privacy they might want for full concentration, but putting it in a central location lets you monitor their activities.
Important Features of a Homework Space
Regardless of where you put the homework space, take into account these features that will make studying more efficient and effective:
- Desks. It’s much easier to study effectively when seated at a desk. Combine the desk with task lighting and shelves nearby and you’ve created an ideal situation for doing homework.
- Bookcases. Besides putting bookshelves close to the study area, consider building in bookcases or space for them in the room. Studies show that exposure to books and reading from an early age encourages children’s curiosity and motivates them to learn. Built-in bookcases in a custom home have another advantage in that they may be safer than standalone units. The builder can secure them to the wall so that they can’t possibly tip.
- Windows. Natural light and fresh air contribute to a healthy indoor environment. At least one window needs to be operable per building code, but more is better, especially for cross ventilation. If it’s not practical or possible, consider augmenting natural light with clerestory windows.
- TV wall. Don’t discount all the learning that happens on the Internet. When you’re designing the bedrooms or the study room, be sure that includes a wall that will be large enough for TV to display the computer screen or show a video.
- Whiteboard wall. Leave space for a large whiteboard for the kids to work out math problems, scribble, or play games with their friends or siblings.
- Places for computers and printers. Even though much of your children’s homework is submitted electronically, they’ll still need a printer and possibly a scanner.
Decorating Tips for Study Areas
Even though you may be months away from decorating your custom home, it’s not too early to plan for room colors and custom furniture for your children’s homework areas.
- Don’t be afraid to use colors in the room, which can be both relaxing and stimulating. Use them on the walls and the floors, or as accents in bedspreads and pillows. Younger children will enjoy their favorite cartoon characters, animal print or sports team used as accents.
- Look into size-appropriate furniture for small children. They won’t be comfortable or perform as well in furniture sized for adults.
- Include a roundtable somewhere in the room for the kids to sit together to play games, work on homework, or put together puzzles.
Bottom Line
Building a custom home is about creating a space for the whole family to love. As you design your rooms, set aside a special space in it for the kids to do their homework or design the rooms to make them fun for learning. Children face enough daily challenges, but when their bedrooms provide a learning environment, they’ll have an environment that helps them succeed. Alair Homes is here to help with all the details involved in designing and building your custom built home. Contact us to discuss your project today.