Back to School, Back to Style: Smart Study Spaces for Every Home

I was walking through the grocery store the other day and couldn’t help but laugh. 

Three full aisles of school supplies already stocked and ready to go. Backpacks, pencils, folders, lunch boxes… all of it. 

Just like that, summer break started to feel very, very over.

And whether you're wrangling school schedules, managing homework time, or juggling work-from-home demands, the right study space can make all the difference.

At Laurel Alexander Interiors, we believe that study zones should be just as thoughtful and well-designed as any other space in the home. They should support your routines, reflect your style, and make the day-to-day feel a little more effortless.

Here are a few of our favorite ways to bring both function and beauty to the study spots our clients rely on most.

1. Transform an Overlooked Closet Into a Custom Nook

Need a workspace but don’t have an extra room? Closets can offer more potential than you think. With built-ins and strategic organization, we’ve turned spare closets and alcoves into compact, highly functional study stations.

Design detail to consider: Add a built-in desktop, upper shelving for supplies, and clever cord management to keep things tidy. A pull-out tray for a printer or laptop can add even more utility without sacrificing space.

2. Make Shared Spaces Work Smarter

When one room needs to serve multiple purposes (guest room by night, homework zone by day), it’s all about flexibility. We often incorporate elements like murphy beds, folding desks, or built-in cabinetry that adapts to the moment.

Here’s a design we are currently working on for such a need. What was once an unused formal sitting room has been completely transformed into a vibrant, multifunctional space that now serves as both a work-from-home office and a dedicated homework and study zone. The client envisioned something far from dull or corporate; they wanted a room that would feel creative, inspiring, and energetic for both adults and school-aged children.

The design blends streamlined furniture with sculptural lighting, bold pattern, and a curated mix of textures and color. A shared central table encourages collaboration, while two individual workstations along the back wall offer focused zones for meetings, reading, or homework. Layered lighting and mid-century accents elevate the room from utilitarian to uplifting, proving that productivity and personality can absolutely coexist in the same space.

Pro move: Use multifunctional furnishings that can fold, float, or roll out of sight when not in use. Thoughtfully planned and stylish shelving can house everything from your favorite photos and decorative treasures  to textbooks, dialing down the corporate look .

3. Build a Zone That Promotes Focus

Color, lighting, and layout all influence productivity. Whether your child concentrates best in calming tones or you need an energizing home office setup, every design decision should support how the space is used and who’s using it.

We’ve created cozy corners for young learners and sleek setups for professionals, all tailored to promote focus and comfort.

Design touch: Add a pinboard or wall rail system for organizing assignments, tools, or even mood-boosting inspiration quotes.

4. Stylish Storage That Really Works

Storage doesn’t have to mean bulky file cabinets or plastic bins. From tall built-ins to low-profile drawers, we design storage solutions that keep clutter at bay and blend beautifully with your home’s aesthetic.

Tip: Go vertical. When floor space is tight, height is your best friend. Cabinets or open shelving that stretch upward create room without overwhelming the space.

A client favorite for stylish and functional home office furnishings is this collection from one of our favorite manufacturers, Four Hands. See below.

5. Layer in the Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important (and most overlooked) elements of a good study space. A layered approach, like ambient, task, and accent, ensures the room works at any hour, whether you’re reviewing flashcards or leading a Zoom meeting.

Simple upgrade: Dimmer switches, adjustable task lamps, and wall sconces help tailor the lighting to suit your tasks and help protect your eyes during long sessions.

Ready to Rethink the Way Your Home Works?

The return of school and routine is the perfect time to create a smarter, more intentional space. Your home deserves study and work zones that do more than just “get the job done.” 

Schedule a Discovery Call today and let us help you design a space that supports your goals AND your style.