As we transition into August, it’s time to start thinking about making back-to-school a breeze with savvy built-in home solutions. While the thought of sparkly new supplies and the return of a regular routine excites some, it can also be accompanied by a daunting feeling for others, especially given the uncertainty that comes with the current coronavirus climate.
With the demands associated with a return to the school setting or remote learning, it’s smart to have a home that is designed around your family’s needs, making getting the school day started an effortless process. To help wheel in your worries, we’re rolling out a list of smart solutions you can consider when designing your home.
The Homework Station
The homework station is a must-have. No matter what the size of the space, having an adequate clear surface and appropriate lighting should be at the top of your list. You will find that many of our two-story floor plans come with a bonus or game room that provides the perfect place for dedicated learning.
The Pocket Office
If you only have a small footprint of space to spare, our popular pocket office could serve as a workspace solution. Separate from the study, a pocket office is smartly situated in a hall or corner spot of the kitchen. It offers a dedicated surface for homework and can also serve as a station for technology charging, mail organization and quick bill pay.
The big bonus with the pocket office: No need to clean up when dinner time rolls around and no kitchen counter woes here! Your child can easily pick up where he or she left off the next day, because the setup doesn’t interfere with spaces primarily used for food prep.
The Study
While you’re setting up shop, it’s important to remember an adult-friendly workspace, especially since the cornavirus has led to a rise in remote arrangements. You will find that having a secluded and stimulating office space that can be closed off from the noise of the rest home provides a restful atmosphere for strategic thinking.
The Family Foyer
A staple in many of our home designs, the family foyer serves as convenient drop zone and provides an interior setting to safely separate the contents of the outside world from your interior living quarters. This space is commonly comprised of a bench, hooks and a shelf. Although, there are many options for a more robust design – think cubbies and cabinets.
The family foyer is located near the garage door in the interior of the home. It makes the perfect place for storing backpacks, sports bags and other out-the-door essentials. Plus, it helps you contain the mess with storage in one go-to spot.
The Family Ready Room
Have a large family? If so, you’ll appreciate the value a family ready room brings to a home’s design. The family ready room is perfect when the family foyer and pocket office just aren’t big enough to do the job.
Family ready rooms typically include a laundry area, family foyer-style drop zone and work surface. Whether your work area consists of a pocket office, a laundry-folding station or an arts and crafts spot, that’s up to you! You can even build in a dog wash – whatever your heart desires!
The Masterfully-Designed Pantry
A well-appointed pantry is every organizer’s dream, but you don’t have to be a fanatic to appreciate the ease this will bring into your daily routine.
A working pantry provides a place for appliances to set up shop. No need to clutter up the counter with one appliance after another or store your toaster back in the drawer after you finished making breakfast. Keep your kitchen clean by allowing your countertop appliances and other bulky supplies to live in the pantry.
Additionally, a pantry can give you an at-a-glance view of your food supply and household essentials. Having the options visible makes grabbing a snack or packing lunches a breeze for you and your child.
As you start to settle in for a new school year, think through the built-in home solutions that will best serve your family. Make a list of your must-have features, explore inspirational galleries and tour model homes. Once you have complied your list, discuss the possibilities with your Market Manager and Design Center Consultant.
For additional home inspiration, visit the Idea Gallery under “Design Center” at dreeshomes.com.