It’s back to school time, but this school year is going to be very different for most of us. Many students will be spending all or part of their time doing distance learning from home and will need space to work in this new learning environment. When I made this desk over last year, I had intentions of it being a homework desk, never expecting a global pandemic that would change so much about our daily lives, including how kids attend school.
This built-in desk is tucked into a corner in our back hallway and is the perfect place to write a note, check email, order groceries, and do homework. I had a carpenter replace the solid surface counter with a stained wood counter to help tie in with the living room cabinetry. The counter is made from white oak and is stained a walnut color to match our floors.
To update the desk, I removed the doors and drawer fronts, and then sanded, primed, and painted them in Sherwin Williams Mega Greige, which is one of my favorite colors to use on cabinetry.
I painted the lower cabinets this color at our last house, and our kitchen island is painted this color as well. It’s a few shades darker than our wall color: Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray.
In order for this desk to function well for distance learning this fall, I cleaned out and reorganized the cabinets and drawers. Now there is plenty of space for the kids to store their materials in the cabinets, and the drawers are stocked with all the supplies they might need to complete their assignments.
I swapped out the brushed stainless hardware with new hardware in an antique brass finish and added this cute grey and white chair.
I also think this chalkboard I painted on the wall a couple of years ago might come in handy this year.
If this year has taught us all anything, it’s to learn to adapt to unexpected events. I am hoping this updated and organized work space will help this year get off to a good start, despite the challenging and uncertain times.
How has your family had to adapt spaces in your home this year?