homework storage ideas

How To Create The Ultimate Homework Station (So You’ll Never Have To Ask “Is Your Homework Done?” Ever Again)

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Homework can be the bane of the school year and can often be the source of much drama in the household. “Where is my notebook?” “Have you seen my backpack?” and of course the often-used “Is your homework done?!”

Instead of playing into the drama, why not make your home set-up a point of calm amongst the chaos, and set your children up for success by creating (or updating) an incredible homework station.

Teaching your kids how to keep themselves organized is such an important skill. Tasks such as time management, tidying workspaces, and project preparation will not only help them with school work, but also with life and the challenges it brings as they continue to learn and grow.

As organizers, we have used these tips to create homework stations for elementary school aged children onwards and they can easily be applied to families looking to refresh their existing systems for kids of any age.

And big bonus – your kids will love their new work space so much, they may actually be excited to do their homework!

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FIND THE SPACE

First things first, you’ll need to find a room or space in your home that works for your child. Depending on their age and how much assistance they require, this spot could be in a communal room (think kitchen or family room) or at a desk in their own room.

The ultimate goal is to get them working in a proper set-up with a table and chair instead of working from their lap – this way they establish good habits, can properly work on their handwriting and have room to spread out all their materials.

To spark your creative juices, we’ve pulled  30 of our favorite homework station examples  to serve as inspiration:

• Dual Desks from  @littlelibertyrooms
• Fold Down Desk via  This Old House
• Rustic 3-Desk Set-Up via  Postbox Designs
• Closet Transformation from  This Old House
• Homework Station for 4 via  Householdno6.
• Modern Loft Study Area via  Houzz
• Display Wall Station via  Houzz
• Dual Closet Homework Station via  Houzz
• Hallway Station via  Jen Hannotte for Houzz

• 2 Desk Work Station via  Better Homes & Gardens
• Double Sided Desk from  Better Homes & Gardens
• Closet Study Area via  iheartorganizing
• Family Room Homework Space via  Better Homes & Gardens
• Classic Desks via  Classy Clutter
• Walk-in Closet Transformation via  Petite Party Studio
• Kids Homework Station via  Clean and Scentsible
• Freestanding Table via  Houzz
• Colorful Workstation for Four via  Houzz
• Study Nook from  @littlelibertyrooms

• Chalkboard Wall via  Houzz
• Station Under the Stairs via  Houzz
• Hallway Homework Station from  @ninaandcecilia
• Double Desk Space from  @littlelibertyrooms
• Hanging Chair Hideout via  Houzz
• PBTeen Sleep & Study Loft Bed
• DIY Kids Art & Homework Station via  Craft-O-Maniac
• Tri Station via  Juvenile Hall Design
• Pull-Down Hallway Station from  Sand and Sisal
• Homework Nook with Chalkboard via  By Dawn Nicole
• DIY Homework Station from  Tatertots & Jello

Now, if finding a dedicated desk space isn’t possible, consider making your own mobile supply station that can be easily moved in and out of the space (like the kitchen table) when it’s homework time.

We love these smart DIY ideas for a portable study station:

• Dollar Store Portable Homework Caddy via  Simple Made Pretty
• Mobile Homework Station Cart from  Design Improvised
• Ikea Raskog Homework Station via  Smashed Peas and Carrots
• DIY Organizer from  Sprinkle Some Fun
• Homework Study Station via  Mom Advice
• Side of Fridge Storage via  the 36 th  Avenue
• DIY Homework Station Turntable from  Mom On Timeout
• Over the Door Organizer from  A Bowl Full of Lemons
• Freestanding Homework Station via  Simply Organized
• DIY Cutlery & Canning Jar Caddy via  Clean Mama

MAKE IT COMFORTABLE + FUNCTIONAL

Select a good desk chair that is both comfy and supportive. You don’t want a chair to be the reason that your kids are gravitating to doing their homework on the couch!

A few of our all-time favorite options:

• PBTeen Ergo Chair
• Land of Nod Class Act Mint & Gold Desk Chair
• Land of Nod Toto Desk Chair
• PBTeen Emily & Meritt Bed of Roses Airgo Chair
• PBTeen Rockin’ Roller Desk Chair
• Walmart Kids Retro Molded Chair
• Home Depot Modway Edge Office Chair
• PBTeen Northfield Wingback Chair
• Walmart Urban Shop Swivel Mesh Chair

Although it may seem obvious, having a  trash/recycle can  near their desk will encourage them to not only throw out their old papers, but also (perhaps with a little coaxing), to purge the garbage from their backpacks on a regular basis.

GET IT ORGANIZED

Wall Organization

Hang up a cork, magnetic or pin board for your kids to put papers, reminders and a calendar. This is a space that should be within reach of their desk so they can easily add/remove important items on a regular basis. It can also give them a chance to decorate and personalize their space – hopefully inspiring them to actually use it!

There are so many amazing wall organizing systems available – take a look at some of these incredible ideas:

• PBTeen Cubby System Pinboard
• PBKids Build Your Own Modern Gabrielle System
• Land of Nod Stick With Me Magnet Bar
• Land of Nod Cloud Corkboard
• Target Bulletin Board with Chalkboard & Hooks
• Umbra Trigon Bulletin Board
• Sweet Jojo Designs Pinboard
• PBTeen Dot Pin-It Pinboard
• Land of Nod Beaumont White Shelving System
• Land of Nod Colorblock Corkboard Letters
• PBKids Butterfly Shaped Pinboard

DESK ORGANIZATION

Having supplies within reach of the workspace is key to their productivity (there needn’t be twelve trips around the house looking for the tools they need to complete each project!).

If there’s room on their workspace, consider keeping their supplies neatly organized in one of these nifty containers:

• Land of Nod I Could’ve Bin a Things Bin
• PBKids Rainbow Shaped Pencil Holder
• PBKids Candy Canisters
• Land of Nod Perfect Pitch Storage Caddy
• Lani Ang 4-Grid Desktop Organizer
• PBKids Printed Metal Lazy Susans
• Container Store Acrylic Accessory Drawers
• Land of Nod Multicolor Desk Accessories  
• Target Room Essentials Desktop Storage Unit

A version of these supply caddies can also be made for the road as there are often times that your child won’t be home when it comes time for homework (ie. at a sibling’s after-school sporting event!). Capitalize on that travel and waiting time with a to-go bag of their most needed supplies. We especially love  this portable storage one .

Make cleanup easier on everyone by using labels on your supply containers/caddy. This will help teach your children how to maintain their space and hopefully put an end to the continuing cycle of them asking where to put things when they are cleaning up.

We love  this no-fuss, inexpensive labeler  and also check out  these cool reusable chalk board labels .

As your kids get older, homework will often require the use of technology, which means cord and charging chaos! Keep their space tidy from the cord clutter by using some of these ingenious products and hacks to help cables stay neat and handy for when it’s time to plug in and charge.

• Cable Sleeve
• Container Store  Cable Twisters
• Cable Management Box
• Cable Catch

ESTABLISH GOOD HABITS

Time Management

Give them the tools to manage their own time  by keeping a clock or timer at their workspace . Setting time limits for each subject can help them stay on track and is a life skill that will bode them well in life after school.

If you haven’t heard of  the Time Timer  before, it is an ingenious tool that visually shows your child how much time they have left for a certain task. It is easy for them to set themselves, and they don’t need to know how to read a clock in order to understand the concept of time diminishing.

Subject Management

Help keep your child’s different subjects organized with  color-coded file folders  (1) — for instance, green for science, blue for english, etc. — so they can keep their notes organized on their desk and in their book bag.

A  simple file folder organizer  can help keep their most important documents at arm’s reach ( this one  (2) even has some extra storage underneath!). If there’s not enough room on your desk for one, try  this nifty cascade folder  (3) that you can hang on the wall when working, and collapse and bring with you on-the-go!

In/Out Parent Bins

There’s always a plethora of school paperwork and updates that need to get safely into your hands. Consider setting up some  in and out bins  where your kids can drop off any papers that need to be signed or seen by a parent. You can then go through them each night, and put any that need to be returned to school in the “out” bin, ready for them to pick up in the morning and pack in their backpacks. With a little practice, this can be an extremely effective method that can be used all the way through high school!

It is vital for older children to start learning how to manage their own calendar. Whether it’s a  desktop planner , or a  large dry-erase calendar  that can hang on the wall, it’s a great way for them to visually see what tests and assignments are coming up, so they can manage their time accordingly.

Form a Routine

Now you’ve got their work space expertly organized, help your child form a routine of  when  they do their homework. It could be as soon as they come home after a snack, after ½ an hour of “down” time or after dinner. Whatever you decide, help them stick to their routine for the first few weeks by setting a timer or providing gentle guidance. Hopefully with their new homework station in place, they’ll feel a real sense of ownership and be excited to get down to work!

After their homework is complete, consider helping them put a routine in place that will help make the morning rush less hectic. It could be as simple as establishing a nightly backpack check ensuring that all the books and papers needed for the next day are all packed away. Or having them place their packed backpack in a designated space (preferably near the door!) so there isn’t a mad scramble to find it in the morning.

RELATED:  For more smart tips and hacks for smooth morning routines see our popular post:  67 Life Changing Organization Tips & Hacks For Stress-Free Mornings

So there you have it mamas, tons of tips and inspiration to create the ultimate Homework Station. We wish you much success in the homework drama and hope you’ll never have to ask “is your homework done?” ever again!

Pssst – before you go, we’d love to have you  join our What Moms Love community  and we’ll hook you up with all of our exclusive resources including our popular  10 Screen-Free Toys For Guaranteed Quiet Time  (this is seriously a game changer mamas!),  Holiday/Birthday Coupon Book for Kid s  and  35 Food Subs & Swaps for Healthy Family Meals . Just let us know where to send all your goodies!

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MICHELLE HALE & ANNIE DRADDY

About The Authors:

Michelle and Annie are co-founders of  Henry & Higby , a professional organizing company in New York City. They believe that life should be as simple as possible and that the process of getting organized can help.

If you need help organizing your life & home, contact them at  [email protected]

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Wow, these homework stations are amazing! Almost too pretty to work at. Haha. I like the wall organization ideas the most. Always good to get stuff up and off the desk!

Wow, this post is pack full of good ideas! I think it is so important to have a fun, bright station that get kids actually excited to do their homework! Beautiful post.

So much inspiration here!!! My oldest just started kindergarten but I want to have good habits established early and these ideas are great!

These are amazing ideas!! I’m saving for the future

Always such helpful posts! Thank you!

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Published: Aug 5, 2021 · Modified: Aug 28, 2021 by Rachel

30+ Homework Station Ideas for Kids and Teens

Ready to make your family’s after-school or home school routine a bit less stressful? An organized homework station is the answer! I’ve included easy tips for small spaces and multiple kids so everyone can have a quiet, supervised space to study.

Table of Contents

It’s back to school time again and along with that comes a flood of emotion. While its sad to see our babies growing up, my inner organizing dork gets a boost of excitement. Create a cheerful space with these homework station ideas to inspire learning, even if you’re short on space!

A homework station is an inviting area that is dedicated to learning, homework, and informal learning like arts and crafts project. Although the kitchen table will suffice for a quick review or a worksheet, we’ve found it’s nice to have a homework zone where school supplies, books, and school calendars can have a dedicated place of their own. This cuts back on clutter and distractions.

I was inspired to write this post because of what I’ve learned from our frustrations with my son’s severe ADHD. At first, homework hour was a stressful experience full of tears (mine), yelling and every possible distraction under the sun. No exaggeration – 20 minutes of homework regularly took almost 2 hours. The material was never the issue. Home school moms, you have my admiration!

That’s where a dedicated space and equitable ground rules saved the day (and my sanity!)

How To Setup a Homework Station

I’ve learned a lot over several incarnations of our homework space. Creating a basic homework station area is simple and effective with these tips below:

• Choose a quiet area. The biggest chance of success is to limit distractions. Preferably with a handy outlet for a laptop, or charging accessories like headphones. For my son, I find that headphones with music (on loop) works wonders.
• Stock it with necessities. My son is the king of wasting time looking for misplaced items. Before official homework time, I ask if he has everything he needs to minimize the chances of him getting up from the desk.
• Set a routine. Same time + Same space = Success. I personally give my son a short break after school before we get down to business.
• Keep ’em close. While we must balance distractions, young children especially need supervision and usually help.
• Minimize your own distractions. When my son was in elementary school, I couldn’t continue working from home during homework time. It wasn’t fair to ask him to stay focused, when I myself wasn’t focused on his questions. So I placed a tiny desk in our kitchen. That way I had both eyes on him while I washed dishes or prepped dinner. I was available, yet still productive.

Homework Station Supplies

Below is a handy list of supplies that are sometimes useful.

• Pens and pencils
• Loose leaf paper for scratch paper or notes
• A timer or clock
• A folder with pockets
• 1 box of color pencils or crayons
• Computer and charger
• A planner (checklists are the lifeblood of this house!)
• Craft supplies as necessary – glue sticks and scissors are examples
• A comfy chair

Homework Station Setup Ideas

Finding the right space is often the most challenging part! I’ve included some inspirational ideas below to get focused. You don’t need to have an elaborate space, but these are great jumping off points to inspire your creativity.

Nooks & Crannies

While most of us don’t have room for a dedicated office, there’s usually space to spare like under the staircase, an unused closet, or an awkward alcove . These centrally located spaces are often quiet and can be quite magical.

A small closet can be transformed into a useful desk space. Source: This Old House.

The unused space underneath a staircase like this desk is also perfect for using as a small homework station. This design utilizes fun lines and strokes to make it visually interesting.

Homework Stations that Foster Creativity

I honestly believe that adding a little creativity to the space fosters the desire to learn and leads to great ideas. Classrooms are full of stimulating decorations for a reason.

Here’s a few creative concepts to enhance your learning environment:

Inspirational quotes on a paintable chalkboard from Dawn Nicole add a touch of whimsy and keep students motivated during tough assignments.

A simple wall Children’s art display like the desk above allows kids to hang their accomplishments and past artwork.

Add a splash of color or maybe some wall flash cards.

While these beautiful spaces are awesome, sometimes we just need a simple option like this portable homework station .

More portable homework station ideas :

• Use a bath caddy to hold supplies so you can grab and go.
• A tiny desk and rolling cart makes it easy to move supplies where you need them, when you need them.
• I love my car seat organizer for homework on-the-go. It’s a lifesaver when I have to run errands.
• This fold away desk vault in a box is brilliant!

Room for Two (or more)

If you have more than one child, figure out how they learn best. Do they prefer to  study  together? Try setting up the desk so it can accommodate everyone. A collaborative study area is less isolating.

I’m a big fan of this option . Everyone has dedicated space and no one is encroaching on the other’s turf.

This desk utilizes a stacking bookshelf to create two separate work areas and provide ample storage for each user. To save space, you could also have the desks face each other with the bookshelf between them.

This study zone melds learning and fun. It’s an especially fantastic space for large families. The multi-functional area can accommodate everything from homework, to art projects, and amazing Lego builds.

During my own work hours, I share a space with my son. Our craft room makeover project had to include key elements like tandem workspaces, ample organization elements and creative ways to display our greatest hits!

PRO TIP: Peg Boards are excellent additions to any Homework Station. They allow you to customize your storage and wall display without limits. Here’s how we built a DIY pegboard organizer.

Space Saving Solutions

House a homework nook in even the tiniest space. These space saving desks are brilliant!

Wall Mounted Desk

Ladder Shelf

Wall mounted

Space Saving Shelf Desk

Do you have a dedicated studying area in your home? What’s your top tip for handling the daily homework assignments?

More Ideas You May Enjoy

PS I love seeing your creations! Be sure to take a photo and tag  #cravingcreative  on Instagram ! You can also  stay in touch with me through following me on  Instagram ,  Pinterest , and subscribing to the newsletter!

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August 31, 2015 at 11:36 pm

Meredith @ The Palette Muse says

August 31, 2015 at 10:42 pm

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27 Inspirational Homework Areas and Study Stations

Steal ideas from these amazing home office spaces and watch the good grades roll in this semester.

A dedicated space for homework and studying can improve a child’s focus and productivity. Whether you have a large home or a compact apartment, there numerous ways to design an inspiring homework area.

To help you design your own space, we’ll explore 27 creative and functional study station ideas for a variety of needs and spaces.

1. Adjacent Homework Station

Setting up a homework station adjacent to the kitchen allows for independent work while keeping kids close enough for supervision or assistance when needed. The proximity to the kitchen also provides easy access to snacks, fueling those long study sessions.

A bright and lively space can stimulate creativity and encourage learning. To create an inviting atmosphere, opt for vibrant colors like the cheerful yellow cabinets shown here.

2. Storage-Loaded Homework Alcove

A built-in homework alcove can be great in kids’ rooms. Use stock lumber, storage bins, and sliding tracks to create a compact yet functional workspace. This design not only provides ample storage for school supplies and books but also allows for a retractable work surface, making it ideal for rooms where space is limited.

3. Creative Closet Space

Repurposing an underused closet can yield a charming and practical homework nook. Remove the closet doors and line the walls with a fun, eye-catching pattern to transform the space. Involve your child in the design process to make the area appeal to their wants. While their ideas might differ from yours, incorporating their input will make the space more inviting and encourage them to use it regularly for studying. Add personal touches such as their favorite books, a soft rug, or even a small bulletin board for photos and notes.

4. Armoire Office

For those seeking a versatile solution, create an armoire office. This clever design features a fold-down table that serves as a workstation when needed and can be tucked away neatly when not in use. The compact nature of an armoire office makes it great for shared spaces or rooms with limited square footage. It also helps maintain a clutter-free environment by concealing study materials when closed. Integrate cable management to keep electronic cords organized and out of sight.

5. Cozy Corner

Sometimes, simplicity is key. A cozy corner study station can be created with minimal effort using wall-mounted shelves or cubbies and a small computer desk. This setup is perfect for children who prefer a more intimate workspace. Personalize the area with inspiring artwork, a comfortable chair, and good lighting to create an atmosphere that encourages focus and productivity. Including a small plant can add some nature, contributing to a calming environment.

6. Corkboard Wall

Make a bold statement by covering an entire wall with cork tiles or chalkboard paint. This creates a striking visual element while providing a large surface for pinning up schedules, artwork, and reminders. The interactive nature of a corkboard or chalkboard wall can help children stay organized and engaged with their studies. Adding colorful pins and chalk adds a playful element, making the study area more appealing.

7. Kitchen Counter Homework Station

For younger children who require more supervision during homework time, a small desk at the end of a kitchen counter can be ideal. This open-yet-compact workspace allows parents to assist with assignments while preparing meals or attending to other household tasks. The proximity to the kitchen also facilitates easy snack breaks and encourages family interaction during study sessions.

8. Plugged-In Study Nook

In today’s digital age, a well-equipped study area often requires multiple power outlets. Create a plugged-in study nook by carving out space in the kitchen or another central location. Position the desk to face a wall, minimizing distractions and promoting focus. Incorporate built-in cabinetry for ample storage of books, supplies, and electronic devices. This setup makes it so all necessary tools are within reach, streamlining the homework process. Adding a comfortable chair will make long study sessions more manageable and enjoyable.

9. Great Room Homework Station

When dedicated office space is limited, integrate a homework station into your great room. Use a vacant wall to create a built-in work unit that complements the room’s overall design. This approach allows for shared use of living spaces while providing a designated area for studying. However, establish rules about television use during homework time to maintain a distraction-free environment. Be sure to add sufficient storage to keep study materials organized and out of sight when not in use.

10. Light, Bright Desktop

Proper lighting reduces eye strain and maintains focus during study sessions. For sit-down kitchen desks or other homework areas, provide adequate illumination by positioning light sources. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 30 inches between the bottom of a pendant light or lampshade and the work surface. This arrangement provides ample light without creating glare or shadows on the desktop. Use LED bulbs for energy efficiency and consistent lighting.

11. Budget Home Office

Creating an inspiring homework area doesn’t have to break the bank. Use leftover materials and bargain finds to design a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. Incorporate a homework nook into existing built-in storage by repurposing shelves or cabinets. This approach not only saves money but also adds character to the space. Use vintage or reclaimed items to create a unique and personalized study area that reflects your child’s interests and personality. Repurposing old furniture and DIY decor can add a personal touch and provide a sense of accomplishment.

12. Rustic Reclaimed Study Station

For older children or teens, a rustic reclaimed study station can serve as both a functional workspace and a lesson in eco-friendly design. When incorporating salvaged materials, strike a balance between character and simplicity to avoid a cluttered appearance. Use reclaimed wood for desktops or shelving, and repurpose vintage items for storage or decor. This approach not only creates a unique study area but also teaches sustainability and creative reuse. Encourage your child to get involved in the design process to make it a collaborative and educational experience.

13. Side-by-Side Seating

In households with multiple children or where parents want to work alongside their kids, a side-by-side seating arrangement can be ideal. Include features such as outlets for multiple devices, task lighting, and shared storage. This setup encourages collaborative learning and allows for easy supervision when needed. Using matching chairs and coordinated decor can create a cohesive and harmonious look.

14. Creative Catch-All

A multifunctional homework station can serve as a central hub for various family needs. Incorporate elements such as a first-aid center, tech charging station, and storage for documents alongside the study area. Use a combination of open and closed storage to keep frequently used items accessible while concealing clutter. A corkboard backsplash provides a convenient spot for pinning notes, schedules, and reminders, helping to keep the entire family organized.

15. Space-Saving Station

For homes with limited floor space, a wall-mounted homework station can be an excellent solution. Design a unit that props up against the wall, similar to a ladder rack, with built-in shelving and a fold-down desk surface. This type of station can be anchored for stability or left portable, allowing for easy relocation if needed. The vertical design maximizes storage while minimizing the footprint, making it perfect for small bedrooms or shared living spaces. Incorporate hooks and pegs for additional hanging storage options.

16. Modern Home Office

Create a sleek and modern homework area by incorporating floating storage units and minimalist design elements. Large, high-impact shadowboxes can serve as both decorative features and functional storage spaces. This approach keeps the floor clear, creating a sense of openness and making the room appear larger. Choose a cohesive color scheme and streamlined furniture to complete the contemporary look. Use clear containers to store supplies, maintaining a tidy and uncluttered appearance.

17. High Impact Work Station

Add a pop of color and personality to your child’s study area with boldly colored storage. Use vibrant boxes for organizing supplies and color-coordinated binders for filing completed assignments and papers. This makes the space visually appealing and helps children develop organizational skills by associating different colors with specific subjects or types of materials. Use magnetic containers for small items to keep them easily accessible and neatly organized.

18. Hidden Study Station

In shared living spaces, a hidden study station can help maintain a clutter-free appearance when not in use. Use slim bifold doors to conceal the workspace, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding decor. This is particularly useful in living rooms, dining areas, or bedrooms where you want to maintain a cohesive aesthetic while still providing a dedicated homework space. Select furniture that matches the room’s existing style to create a harmonious look.

19. Wall-Mounted Wonder

Maximize vertical space with a wall-mounted folding desk that doubles as a covered storage unit. This compact solution is perfect for small rooms or areas where floor space is limited. When closed, the unit serves as a decorative wall feature, and when opened, it provides a functional workspace with built-in storage for supplies. Look for easy-to-install options that can be adjusted as your child grows. Add magnetic boards or pegboards above the desk for additional versatile storage.

20. Adjustable Storage Station

Create a flexible homework nook using adjustable wall-mounted shelving. This cost-effective alternative to built-in storage allows you to customize the space as your child’s needs change over time. Choose a shelving system that can be easily reconfigured to accommodate different textbooks, supplies, and equipment as your child progresses through school. Integrating various storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and boxes can help keep the area organized and neat.

21. Catch-All Cubby Bins

Incorporate open shelving with a variety of storage bins to create a versatile and organized homework station. Choose bins in different materials and colors to add visual interest while maintaining functionality. Wicker baskets can lend a natural, organic feel, while brightly colored fabric bins can inject energy into the space. Label each bin clearly to help your child develop good organizational habits. Use transparent bins for items that are used more frequently, making them easy to locate quickly.

22. Pretty and Punctual Homework Area

Encourage time management skills by incorporating a wall-mounted clock into your child’s study area. Allow your child to personalize the space with a few carefully chosen decor items, striking a balance between functionality and self-expression. This approach helps create a sense of ownership and pride in the workspace, potentially increasing the likelihood of consistent use. Adding motivational quotes or posters can inspire and motivate your child during study sessions.

23. Walled-Off Study Station

In larger rooms, create a dedicated study area using built-in room dividers. This approach provides privacy and helps minimize distractions while maintaining an open feel. Use a combination of open shelving and solid panels to create a semi-enclosed space that can be customized to suit your child’s needs and the room’s overall design. Integrate lighting such as desk lamps or wall-mounted sconces to make sure the area is well-lit.

24. Work Space With a View

Position desks near windows to take advantage of natural light and provide a pleasant view during study sessions. This arrangement can help reduce eye strain and create a more inviting atmosphere. Make sure that the view is not overly distracting and use adjustable blinds or curtains to control light levels throughout the day. Add some greenery or decorative plants on the windowsill to create a refreshing and vibrant environment.

25. Kid’s Corner

Transform a small corner of your child’s bedroom into a dedicated homework station. Use corner desks or L-shaped configurations to maximize space efficiency. Add floating shelves above the desk for additional storage and display space. This setup allows your child to have a personal study area without sacrificing too much floor space in their room. Personal touches such as favorite knick-knacks and artwork can make the area more appealing and comforting.

26. In-House Computer Lab

For families with multiple children, creating an in-house computer lab can provide equal access to technology for schoolwork. Make sure that each workstation has sufficient outlets for powering computers and charging devices. Design the space to accommodate different age groups and learning styles, with adjustable seating and desk heights if possible. This shared space can foster a collaborative learning environment while allowing for individual focus when needed. Include noise-canceling headphones to help minimize disturbances when several activities are happening simultaneously.

27. Reader-Created Study Station

Draw inspiration from creative homeowners who have designed unique study spaces for their children. For example, reader Carol Dregne of Galena, Illinois, created a vibrant workstation for her two boys to share. The world map wall covering serves as both an educational tool and an eye-catching backdrop. Incorporate educational elements into your child’s study area to make learning a natural part of the environment. Tailor elements such as world maps, periodic tables, or historical timelines to your child’s interests to make the space more engaging.

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Designing the ideal study can be like finding your perfect pair of blue jeans: elusive and sometimes a downright fantasy. Whether you're a student looking for a focused homework zone or a work from home warrior who just needs some peace and quiet, the quintessential study space needs to wear a lot of hats. It needs to be chill but invigorating; tranquil but inspiring; functional but beautiful—that's a lot for a little room to live up to, right? Luckily, the design world is full of inspiration, and we're rounding up the best of the best, focusing on happy homework zones, study rooms, and home offices that will have you begging for just one more meeting or one last test. Well, maybe.

Get a Little Moody

Equal parts relaxing and dramatic, this daring study space by GRT Architects boasts everything you'd need to get down to brass tacks, from bookshelves and versatile side tables to a cozy spot to perch. For a similarly moody hue in your own space, try River Blue by Benjamin Moore.

Go Bold and Brazen

If you're someone that thrives on vibrant energy, you're probably not going to be able to easily find your groove in a stark neutral space. Play into your work or study personality with decor that keys into exactly what it is that makes you tick. Here, designer Krsnaa Mehta relied on righteous jewel tones and custom art to enliven his personal study.

Make Room for Storage

Designer Eric Olsen carved out a dedicated area for his kids to focus on schoolwork. The study zone features custom pendants for ample lighting over a desk that seats multiple children to gather around for group projects or tutoring sessions. Built-in storage with cabinet enclosures ensures that books, school supplies, and other essentials are organized behind closed doors.

Carve Out a Comfort Nook

If you're one of those people who can't focus unless you're in your most comfortable sweats with a cup of coffee in hand, may we present: your dream space. Designer Jeffrey Alan Marks leaned into all things cozy when dreaming up this hideaway reading nook in his California beach home . With an emphasis on just the right amount of light, free space, and shelving—plus one insanely-comfortable daybed—it's the perfect spot to carve out time to brush up on your history lessons or just complete the day's Wordle.

Put Every Inch to Use

When space is at a premium—and a quiet spot to conduct business is the end goal—it's time to put every unused corner to use. Designer Corey Damen Jenkins proved just how versatile a few extra square feet could be in this Michigan home, where he transformed a lofted space above the foyer into a focus zone worthy of a CEO or 4.0 brainiac. All it took? A versatile shelving unit, comfy chair and bistro table from West Elm.

Find the Light

Even the most diligent among us are not immune to the need for a little study break every now and then. Give your mind somewhere beautiful to wander by posting up your study zone in front of a scenic window. In this home office designed by Heather Chadduck , an eclectic gallery wall frames a brightly-lit window, encased in trim painted Green Blue by Farrow & Ball .

At the end of the day, having a dedicated space to study or work is far more important than how fancy—or big—said space happens to be. Need convincing that big things can happen in small spaces? Take this cute corner as proof positive. Designer Tariq Dixon transformed a tiny unused corner of his apartment into an inspiring place to write answer e-mails, and gather inspiration.

Sink Into Comfort

In the Sacramento home of designer Shavonda Gardner , a welcoming vintage Eames chair is all it takes to beckon passersby to stop and study (or read, or scroll) for a while. To make the rest of the space stand up to the stately vintage lounger, Gardner relied on an inky paint hue ( Caviar by Sherwin-Williams ) and personalized accessories.

Get Bookish in the Bedroom

For tweens and teens, there's no better spot for a study zone than in their bedroom—let's be honest, they only want to be in there anyway. Designer Katie Hodges hooked her grade-school client up with a study space that will carry her all through the way through high school (and beyond!), thanks to a custom built-in station with room for books, mementos, and more.

Keep It Consistent

In this Montana family cabin designed by Kylee Sshintaffer roomy benches and plenty of task lighting make this bonus room the perfect place to buckle down and study. The tight color scheme ensures that it fits right in with the rest of the home.

Do Double Duty

When designer Byron Risdon was tasked with carving out a WFH space in a petite Washington, D.C. apartment , he turned to an unlikely spot: the dining room table. By installing floating shelves and opting for an expansive dining table, Risdon gave his teacher client a place where he could hold class—and share a glass with friends afterward.

Clear the Way for Collaboration

You know what they say—two heads (or three, or four) are better than one. If you prefer collaboration over quiet (or just need a place to work on that pesky group project), consider doctoring up a study space that will allow you to work as a team. In this office space from House Beautiful's 2019 Whole Home, designer Dani Arps opted for an oversized work that could fit several thinkers at once.

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21 Home Office Storage Ideas for a More Productive Work Space

Keep supplies, papers, and electronics tidy in your home office with these smart storage solutions.

Paul Costello

Work-from-home setups come in all shapes and sizes depending on the space available. Whether you have a desk slipped into a small closet or an entire room dedicated to a home office , it's important to stay organized. Regardless of how much space you have, these home office storage ideas will help keep your space tidy.

Setting up an organized system for your office supplies makes them accessible during a busy day. It also makes it easier to wind down on the weekends if you keep your work materials tucked away and out of sight. Maintaining a work-life balance is particularly important when your home is also the office, after all.

Take inspiration from the following home office storage ideas and use them to create a fully functional workspace for yourself.

Custom Supply Storage

A sliver of well-designed open shelving in a small home office is all you need to hold necessities. Individual slots for folders, binders, and envelopes, wider shelves for storage boxes, and a slide out tray with a printer near an outlet makes for a streamlined system. Attach a desk with drawers to hold smaller supplies to the built-in bookcase and you’re ready to tackle the day.

Dual Office Space

The reality is that sometimes you need to share a space with your significant other if you’re both working from home for the foreseeable future. Make sure to give yourselves enough room to spread out by installing an elongated table and sliding a few file cabinets underneath to hold double the paperwork. Equally long floating shelves on the wall above provide storage for books and baskets full of supplies.

Stacked Office Storage

John Granen

As paperless as the world has become, some professions still require a great deal of physical paperwork to be handled. If that’s the case for you, consider rejecting a typical file cabinet and opt for something slightly more stylish. A stackable system of drawers, in monochromatic white to match the office walls, keeps a plethora of paper organized and limits visual clutter.

Desktop Accessories

John Granen 

Regardless of the storage space within your desk, it’s good to have a few, often used supplies at your fingertips. Keep items like pencils and paperclips sorted in individual trays and corral at least some into a caddy. This not only looks neater, it also makes cleaning the surface of the desk an easier task.

Floating Surfaces

Kritsada Panichgul

Create a simple, yet fun area that can double for work or after school homework out of an underused closet. Patterned papered interior walls are the perfect backdrop for a floating desk and overhead shelving. Colorful boxes and bins can contain supplies and notes on the shelves while a mix of things like mason jars and a lazy Susan separate pens and markers.

Privacy Partition

Whether you need to share a workspace with your kid or your spouse, it’s not a bad idea to create a little separation by way of a bookshelf. Place an open unit between two desks and arrange books, plants, and family photos on the shelves for both parties to admire whenever they need a brain break.

Alcove Office Space

An arched nook in your home is a sweet spot to set up shop. Squeeze in a small desk, complete with drawers for basic office supplies and files. Hide clutter within matching baskets and stacking boxes on a pair of floating shelves. Keep desktop clutter to a minimum with magazine files and horizontal organizers.

Cubby Storage

Brian McWeene

Cube units, while often popular toy storage systems , are ideal for offices as well. If your kids have outgrown the one in their playroom, repurpose it in your home office to keep books and binned up supplies neat. Intermittently add in decor items to create a chic, yet functional, look.

Floor-to-Ceiling Shelving

Dane Tashima

If your line of work comes with its fair share of supplies, you may need to designate a whole room to a home office. Rather than cluttering it with cabinets and furniture, however, keep the floors (and your mind) clear by utilizing built-in bookcases wherever there is wall space. Use the color coding method to arrange your books and store the rest of the supplies by category in minimalistic, matching containers.

A Maximized Cloffice

David A Land

The cloffice trend , or closet-turned-office, has risen in recent years. It allows you to create an assigned workspace where no other room is available. If it’s something that will solve your limited space woes, make sure to maximize the storage space when designing it. Build in a desk with plenty of drawers and hang shelves as high as they’ll go to accommodate both supplies and decorative pieces that reflect your style.

Minimalist Design

Marty Baldwin

Another small space desk idea is to add a narrow console table behind the couch. Keep only the essentials nearby by including a stackable organizer, pencil cup, and headphone stand on the surface. In lieu of standard office seating, choose an accent chair that goes with the rest of the living room.

Closed Storage Cabinets

Blaine Moats

For a sleek office style in any area of the house, consider flanking a set of cabinets on either side of a modest desk. Organize work supplies by type within baskets and place them on shelves behind the closed cabinet doors. This keeps everything easily readily available but also hidden away on your days off.

Concealed Kitchen Workstation

Nicole LaMotte

Kitchens are often overlooked as a possible home office. Usually, it’s because there may not be enough space to carve out a corner for a desk. But, the reality is that only a small amount is needed to make it possible. A pocket door that opens to reveal a slight desk with a drawer and accompanying shelves for supplies provides just enough room to concentrate on calls or let the kids study while you prep dinner.

Pretty and Practical

Adam Albright

A home office that makes you happy to be in can also help you be more productive. So, when designing your workspace, look for organizing tools that will keep your things tidy and bring a smile to your face. Gold accented supplies, such as ceramic trinket dishes, a magnetic memo strip, and a mail sorter, will have you feeling luxurious even when presented with a mundane task.

Vertical Supply Storage

Edmund Barr

When faced with minimal square footage, always look to the wall for additional storage space. Next to your desk, hang a set of floating shelves for supplies, a calendar, and one or two wall-mounted file organizers for important paperwork. This keeps your desk clear of clutter and the necessities still within reach.

Stylish Office Storage

However you decide to design your home office, the organizing products you choose should be the finishing touches. Match them to the overall look of the workspace so they blend seamlessly. For example, an office filled with live plants deserves other earthy accessories. Look for a file cabinet and tray in natural wood tones along with a desk and pencil cup in shades of green.

Choose Versatile Furniture

Jessica Klewicki Glynn

A minimalist, do-it-all table serves as a desk with loads of energetic style. This stylish furniture piece blends into your home naturally and can be easily converted into an after-school gaming station for the kids or a buffet station for your next party.

Office Wall Decor

An acrylic wall calendar is equally functional, stylish, and easy to use because it can be easily updated each month. Plus, it matches with just about any design style.

Personalize Your Supplies

Jason Donnelly

A desk area outfitted with organizational tools can fulfill an array of filing needs. Here, open envelopes hold important bills and notices while magazine files below are used for archiving previous work. For a cohesive look, find containers of the same color, but offer different kinds of storage solutions for various tasks. Tack paper organizers to the wall for a place you can easily access, and use closed containers for hiding things like unsightly charger cords.

Maximize Wall Space

Helen Norman

Work board or work of art? You decide. The whole family will love this chalk wall perfect for jotting down notes or creative doodling. Once you have an office space carved out, paint one wall or a section of a wall with  chalkboard-style paint .

Corner Desk Storage

Kim Cornelison

This corner workspace for two involves some serious storage. The open shelving unit is great for everyday needs. Having office supplies so easily in reach makes it easy to remember to put things away. Adjacent to the desks, a cabinet unit keeps bulky, unsightly items out of sight. If your work involves confidential files, consider adding desk drawers or filing cabinets that lock to keep curious minds out of your things.

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30 Lifesaver Back-to-School Organization Ideas for the Home

Sharing is caring!

Are you stressed out thinking about the chaos that comes with back-to-school? Organization is key!  Here are 30+ ideas for school organization at home that are sure to help – includes homework stations, backpack storage, and family commander centers! Free organizational checklist and motivational poster below!

This post contains affiliate links. See Disclosures for details.

The Back to School Chaos

“Mrs. Landry, I promise, I did my homework. I have no idea why it’s not in my backpack,” (said while pulling out a never-ending stream of white 8.5×11″ sheets of paper…).

If I had a dollar for every time I heard that during my teaching career, I could have quit long before I left to have my twins.  

So many kids struggle with organization, and truth be told, it can be really hard to teach and enforce at home when, as a mom, you feel like you are just swimming in the chaos.

Organization and Systems are Key!

I’m a huge fan of systems and processes, and adding a few school organization strategies to your home at the beginning of the year can be so beneficial to your child’s success during the school – and to your sanity. 

Below are 3 ways you can begin to organize your child and your home to have it ready for the school year: homework stations, backpack zones, and family command centers.  

Take a look at these ideas, get some inspiration, and see what is doable for your home.  It’s not meant to put more pressure on you, but with just a little bit of pre-planning before the craziness of the school year starts, you and your child will be set up for a much smoother, less frustrating school year.

Many of these ideas overlap. You may want to put the backpack storage in the command center as well as some homework supplies. You might want to put backpack storage at the homework station. You’ll also see that you can mix-and-max a lot of the inspiration pictures as well. You really can custom-create what will serve your family.  Whatever space and functionality work best for you – go for it!

At the end of the post, you’ll see a supplies list for some of the important items you may need to purchase to set up your home for school organization!

And be sure to visit the original sites. LOTS more ideas to help are there for your taking!

Other Tips and Routines for School Organization

Dinnertime Meal Planning   – Dinnertime can be such chaos during the school year.  Having your meals planned out ahead of time goes such a long way! Here are 30 Easy & Healthy Weeknight Dinners you can choose from to make life run a little more smoothly. And here’s my favorite way to meal plan!

Lunch Planning – Having lunches made the night before cuts down on a ton of morning drama.  If your kids are old enough, add making their own lunches to their chore list.  And having convenient healthy grab & go snacks (all organic!) ready can make things much, much easier.  You don’t need to sacrifice ease for health!

Clothes Planning – Picking out outfits the night before also cuts down on potential screaming matches before the bus comes.  Making sure clothes are clean and ironed can help a lot also.

Backpacks Packed the Night Before – Making sure homework is in the backpack and all papers are signed the night before also cuts down on drama trying to get out the door.

Breakfast Planning – Whatever you serve your kids for breakfast, having it ready to go ahead of time is key. Knowing what they are going to eat ahead of time makes a big difference.  And it can even be something you baked and froze ahead of time, and now it just needs to be popped in the toaster or microwave. 

Having something simple, even if it’s just cheese sticks or protein bars or yogurt pouches, something they can eat at the bus stop or on the bus will help them get started with some healthy energy.

If you want a full back-to-school checklist for end of summer prep and 1st day of school prep, grab the free printable by filling out the box at the end of the post!

And don’t forget prayer! You can get 31 printable Scripture-based prayer cards for your kids right here for free!

Tips from Your Child’s Teacher

Home is just one side of staying organized for the school years.  Teachers also have a lot of valuable input when it comes to having a successful, productive year.  If you really want to up your game and get ahead of the curve, take a look at 10 things teachers wish parents knew !

Ok, let’s get ready to get your house ready for back to school!

This post contains affiliate links. See Disclosures for more details.

Homework Stations

Having a designated place for homework goes such a long way in productivity for kids.  It saves so much time when all of the supplies are right in one place, and they know that when they sit there, they need to get down to business.  A few pointers for homework stations:

• Make sure your homework station is distraction-free .  It should be in a quiet place. No TVs. A cell-phone-free zone.

2. All the supplies they need should be within reach . This will save a ton of time, and it will also cut down on their excuses to leave the station to hunt down supplies (i.e. waste time).

3. If your child needs supervision , it should ideally be someplace where you can keep an eye on them, while you’re making dinner or doing something else. 

4.  You know your child.  Whatever your child needs to be productive, provide it . If your child needs background noise, classical music is a good choice. If a timer would help, put one on the desk.

5. Get your child involved in decorating it and setting it up , so there’s a little more ownership there.

6. Identify whether your kids can work together or need to be separated.  Separating might require a little creativity, but the time and energy you’ll save in drama and breaking up fights will be worth it!

Dollar Store Portable Homework Station

This is just a simple caddy (you can find similar ones for cheap at Dollar Tree) with cups filled with supplies.  Just having everything handy in one place really cuts down on wasted time (intentional or not!) trying to find supplies.

Rolling Cart Homework Station

Here's another supply cart that takes it up to the next level. A rolling cart can be moved to different locations, and you can definitely expand the items that will be accessible to your kids.  This can be a great choice if you know your child has lots of different kinds of projects and needs lots of different kinds of materials.

 DIY Small Homework Station

If you don't have a lot of room or if you have multiple kids who need homework stations, this has wonderful ideas! A big bulletin board in front, a rolling cart. Perfect for productivity without needing a lot of real estate in the house!

Chalkboard Homework Command Center

With a space like this, I think many kids wouldn't mind doing homework! Bulletin boards, baskets, adorable curtain rods hung with buckets of supplies.  This is amazing.  This set up for 2 children, so if you know your kids can work side-by-side, this is a great option, without having to create 2 separate spaces.

DIY Homework Station with Shelves & Baskets

The shelf above this desk does all the heavy lifting for organization. Color-coordinated baskets filled with supplies, books, and having a clean, non-distracting workspace is especially helpful for kids who are easily distracted.

Small Space 2-in-1 Homework Station

If your kids can't work side-by-side, this is a great space-saving option! A table divided by a bookshelf provides an organized area for both kids to work, without getting on each other's nerves! Love this option!

Removable Tri-Fold Study Station

Those foam tri-fold project boards are a great option if you need to separate your kiddos.  It doesn't have to be fancy - or even permanent - to provide each child with his own work area.  I like this choice because your homework station can be at your dinner table, where you can keep an eye on them, but it's easily removable for dinnertime.

Kids Homework Station

This is such a great set-up using a table divided by a file cabinet.  The clipboards hold all kinds of important info, and each child has his or her own bulletin board! Great solution for all the artwork they bring home!

Seat Sacks for the Kids

The hanging buckets with school supplies are a real winner for homework stations, and this over-the-chair holder is another great idea to keep things neat and accessible!

Kids Art and Homework Station

This homework station is so kid-friendly and inviting!  Bold colors make it super-interesting, and the clothesline type string with clips is another fantastic place for important papers or displaying artwork.

Backpack Storage

This is the one thing that plagues so many moms – the backpack storage debacle.  Usually, kids are running through the front door, backpacks dropped upon entry, and it just creates such a huge eyesore.  Having a designated spot for backpacks not only cuts down on the mess, but it really helps when everyone is a rush in the morning and trying not to miss the bus. If e veryone knows where his backpack is, it minimizes so much morning stress. 

Ideally, if you can arrange to store jackets, shoes, and lunchboxes nearby as well, it will help so much .

If you have a mudroom , that’s a great place. Or, if your garage is conveniently located , that’s another fantastic spot.  I know some houses aren’t really set up like that, so the trick is to find a functional location that looks neat . There are many ways to do that in an entryway space, or even if your front door opens right up into your living room.

One thing that I think really helps moms is to realize that, while we’d like our homes to look like something straight off of Instagram, the reality is that kids live there. It’s OK for it to look like kids look there.  It can still be neat and organized, even if it has the ‘kid decor’ look.

Backpack Station with Initials and Coordinating Boards

So simple, clean and neat: a bulletin board for papers and a hook for the back-up. This is great if minimalist is your style!

Personalized Bulletin Boards & Backpacks

This is a super-functional area, not just for the backpacks, but with personalized bulletin boards with calendars as well! This is a great solution if you're trying to keep track of backpacks and other important items for several kids.

Backpack Storage and Organizer

If you're handy with tools, this is a fantastic DIY project! I love the functionality of it - with a place for a calendar (that's on top - the picture is a little cut off!) as well as bins to hold papers. Perfect when kids are late and running out the door. Even if tools aren't your thing, you can probably figure out a way to recreate this idea. Love it!

Backpack Storage Lockers

This is a super-cute locker storage area! You can see backpacks, jackets, lunch boxes, and shoes.  I bet this goes a LONG way in getting the kids out the door without the chaos!

Backpack Storage - Mudroom Combo

The shelf with the hooks is a perfect solution for any space you need to hang backpacks.  The calendars above are an added bonus. If you're concerned about style, the shelf is also another way you can add in some home decor without it looking too 'school-ish.' The plastic mats for shoes below solve so many problems at once (lost shoes, dirt trekked through the house, etc.).

Chalkboard Themed Backpack Storage

Love this simple, stylish look for backpacks.  Keeps things classy!

Pegboard Shelving Backpack Storage

These pegboards with shelving above add a stylish, vintage look to the entryway. Again, having a shelf above the hooks is another to throw in some home decor to a functional space.

Minimalist Backpack Storage

Here's another win for the minimalist, clean look. Simple hooks, clean boards with initials and chunky clip. Covered all the bases.

Designated Drop Zone

This is a great example of using a small space to maximum functionality.  Having 2 rows of hooks just doubled the storage space, and who even knows what kinds of magical things you can put in the bench while you're at it? Great space.

Double Row Hooked Backpack Storage

This is another example of a stylish space that serves your needs.  Again, 2 rows of hooks = double the space. And the paneling behind it just takes it up a few notches as far as style goes.

Garage Organization & Backpack Storage

If you're lucky enough to have this kind of space in the garage, this is ideal. Shoes, coats, backpacks, umbrellas, instruments - that never actually have to enter your house? This is every mom's dream.  Let your imagination run wild with this one!

Family Command Centers

For any organization geeks, a family command center is where it’s at.  This one will probably help you more than the kids, but it’s really an essential for everyone.  You can put menus here, bulletin boards with important papers, calendars with everyone’s important events, bills, grocery list, chore chart – the sky is the limit here.  Whatever YOU need to have at your fingertips at a moment’s notice should be there.  I even keep a calendar of when bills are due posted (that doesn’t help the kids, but it sure helps me!)

This can also save on the million questions you get asked on a daily basis.  Just point them to the command center.

There are SO many fancy and adorable office-type organizational ideas that this space can DEFINITELY be pretty AND functional. And don’t let small spaces limit you. You can even use one or two different areas for a command center. There’s no rule that it has to all be in the very same location.

Look closely at these ideas.  Filter through them and see what will really serve your family best.  You know your family best. You know what information and what items will help keep you organized. There’s so much inspiration here! This might really end up being your favorite space in the house!

Easy DIY Clipboard Family Command Center

This is a super easy clipboard project made with Mod Podge! So many ways to make it fun - you can customize the look depending on the tissue paper or napkin you choose! Post comes with a free 33 page planner to go on top as well as directions for a weekly calendar using foam board!

Color Coordinated Command Center

A color-coordinated whiteboard calendar, galvanized buckets for supplies, and folders for each child. This is a perfect home base for a family info station.

Black and White Command Center

First, I love the clean, black-and-white look. But this mom has her act together: calendar, receipts, coupons, budget, mail - so well done.

Family Announcements Command Center Gallery Wall

I love this example of combining a gallery wall with a command center. Decorative wall art along with all kinds of useful menus, shopping lists, and calendars. Good central spot for family announcements!

Well done, here!

Design Friendly Family Command Center

This is a great example of a color-coordinated space for a command center.  The wall art, calendar, bulletin board and the labels on the basket tie the whole space together. Coordinating colors is another great way to keep a unified look.

Chalkboard Themed Command Center

These big chalkboards are amazing, and I love that they really are somewhat non-committal - so easy to change out a chalkboard! Storing keys as well as backpacks here pretty much ensures that this wall will get a look on the way in or way out. Great job.

Kid Centered Family Command Center

This is another great example of a command center with a farmhouse look. This center has a space for each child, which makes it not functional but adds ownership to the area as well. Personalized wire baskets, hooks for backpacks and calendars really teach kids to own their own space.

Back To School Command Center

This is a combomination of a homework station as well as command center, but it really focuses on the child and what he needs to accomplish. I love the whiteboard with washi table for a calendar you can change up. Supplies are hung up for easy access, and each child has his own clipboard.

Bright & Cheery Family Command Center

I just love this bright cheery space.  "Happy" is definitely the word here! Labeled file bins, magnetic board, calendar, hooks and baskets - being organized definitely doesn't have to be boring!

All the Essentials Command Center

All the important elements here - bins for each child, calendar, chalkboard/bulletin board, supplies - and there ya have it! 🙂

Seating Area Command Center

I especially like that this command center has a place to sit. It's a great spot to plan, make lists, plan menus, etc. It's the brains of the house, all in one place.

Refridgerator Command Center

This one appeals to me especially because I have very little wall space in my kitchen, so a way to utilize space on the fridge is ideal! You can fit more than you think on that space! Bravo!

Master Supply List

I hope you’ve gotten yourself some good inspiration for what you need to do to get organized for the school year. Next up is supplies.  I suggest hitting up Dollar Tree or someplace like that first for some of these items.  Make sure the quality is what you need, but for some generic basics, it’s a good place to start.

Next, my go-to is Amazon. Their prices are comparable with Walmart – or better – and free 2-day shipping for Prime members?  Yes, please! (If you’re not a Prime member, you can get a 30-day trial here!)

Below is the master list of supplies you’ll need.  Browse through the list and click for lots of options in each category!

For Homework Stations and Command Centers

Hanging organization supplies.

Hanging Wire Baskets

Fabric Hanging Baskets

Hanging Mail Bins

Small Hanging Tin Buckets

Wire Clothes Line Display with Clips

WALL DECOR AND HANGING BOARDS

White Boards

Chalk Boards

Bulletin Boards

Magnetic Boards

Picture Frames

Initial Letters

Menu Boards

Letter Boards

Calendars for Family

Kitchen-Size/Key Holder Hooks

DESKTOP ORGANIZATION

Tri-Fold Project Boards

Desk Dividers

Plastic Caddies

Rolling Storage Carts

Plastic Baskets

Wall Mounted Hooks

Coat Locker

Shelf with Hooks

Hall Tree with Bench

Entryway Storage Bench

Shoe Storage

I am a sucker for a good organizational hack.  There are so many ways you can really personalize these ideas and put them together in a way that fits your house and works for your family.  As a teacher, I can vouch for the fact that school organization at home is essential for a child’s success. The more you can incorporate some organizational strategies at home, the better off your child will be.

I know parents and kids and teachers experience the beginning of the school year so differently, but having back-to-school organization systems in place make the transition easier for everyone!

If you’d like a free back-to-school checklist, so you can be really prepared for school, grab this checklist as well as a free motivational print, ‘You can do hard things’. Just fill out the box below!

Thought? Leave a comment – I’d love to hear them and chat!

More Back-To-School Help

An Open Letter to Parents from Your Child’s Teacher

65+ Grab & Go Organic Snacks – Perfect for Healthy School Lunches!

31 Scripture-Based Back-to-School Prayers {Free Printable}

20 Immune Boosting Foods for Kids {That They’ll Actually Eat!}

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10+ Practical Homeschool Storage Ideas

Trying to organize your homeschool? Here are 10 practical homeschool storage ideas you can try.

We are a kitchen-table homeschool family. We do not have a schoolroom or dedicated space to contain all our homeschool items. That means, that my dining room is the schoolroom. It also means we’ve had to learn how to get creative with storing everything that goes along with homeschool.

With that being said, here are some of our homeschool storage ideas.

How do I organize my homeschool space?

First of all, lets go over how to start the process of organizing your homeschool space…

To begin with, give your homeschool space a much needed homeschool declutter . Go through and get rid of any unused items.

Secondly, store the non-essentials. This could included curriculum or books you are saving for your younger kids, extra supplies, or past records.

Lastly, look through homeschool storage options and create some organizational systems that work for you.

10 Practical Homeschool Storage Ideas

(This list contains Amazon Affiliate Links.)

As we go through this list of homeschool storage ideas, I’m going to start from the largest working my way down to the smallest. That way, you can create a frame for your space, and then work your way down to getting the details organized.

1. Homeschool Shelving Ideas

Some sort of shelving is essential for organization. If you are homeschooling in a small space like I am, vertical shelving helps to maximize the already limited space.

You can use metal shelving, wood shelving, large cubbies, or even built-ins as a framework to organize and store things like homeschool books, baskets, caddys, and supplies.

2. Large Storage Bins

Large storage bins are wonderful for storing your non-essentials, or things you won’t be needing this year. You can pack up all those books and extra supplies and create a ton of extra room for your current needs.

Furthermore, you can label these homeschool tubs and put them in a closet or garage where they will be accessible, yet out of the way.

3. Mounted Wall Homeschool Storage Ideas

Mounted wall organizers include things like hooks, small floating shelves, hanging wire baskets, a large calendar, or peg board. These are another way to utilize your vertical space without taking up valuable floor space.

Using these items, you could create a homeschool or family command center , where all of your daily tasks are visible and easily accessible.

4. Homeschool Storage Cart

Learn how to make an art cart that you can wheel into a closet at the end of the day. Of course, it doesn’t just have to be for organizing art supplies , you can learn some clever ways to create a homeschool cart where you could keep your kids daily school books, teacher supplies, or printed resources on it as well.

The best part is, you can move it around as needed throughout the day, then put it away when its not being used.

5. Lockers for Homeschool

If you have access to some old metal lockers, why not add them to your homeschool space? You could have one for each kid, or use them to store things like books and supplies.

Besides the fact that old lockers are just plain cool, if the shelves get a little messy throughout the year, you can always shut the door.

6. Homeschool Supply Caddy

There are so many caddy options out there! And no wonder, because they are so practical, not to mention, cute. They are great for holding basic school supplies like glue, scissors, pencils, crayons, etc.

I keep a caddy on our homeschool shelf and it really does help to keep the supplies from taking over the room.

6. Baskets for Homeschool Storage

Whether you do a morning basket or are just needing something to hold your papers in, baskets are the best way to go.

Coming in all shapes and sizes, baskets also make it easy to organize within your shelving framework. So instead of simply throwing everything on a shelf, organize and categorize the shelf using baskets.

7. Homeschool Paper Storage Ideas

Paper organizers include stackable paper holders, binders, pocket pouches , binder rings, and file box with hanging folders .

Organizing homeschool paper work and printable resources can sometimes be a nightmare. But once you get a system in place that works for you, it should improve the situation.

I use a combination of these paper organizing solutions for our homeschool. I use stackable holders for card stock and printer paper, pocket pouches for units or things with cutouts or small pieces, binder rings for flashcards , and then I use the binders to organize record keeping and things like that.

8. Drawer Storage ideas for Homeschool

Efficiently organizing desk drawers is always a challenge. But there are a few storage ideas you can try that will help create a workable system.

Some of these include: Trays and baskets in the drawers for separation, rubber bands for holding groups of things togethers like wires or unused pencils, and small containers that can hold random things like paper clips, and thumbtacks.

10. Clear Storage Containers for Homeschool Organization

Clear, stackable storage containers can be a great option if you have a lot of little things that you use all time, like hands-on actives, math manipulatives, or even craft supplies.

Along with these clear storage containers, you can find tons of free classroom organizational labels and tags online to make them kid-friendly and easy to access.

10. Mason Jars for Homeschool Organization

I think we would all agree that mason jars are versatile. So why not use them in storing you homeschool supplies? You can use Mason Jars for art supplies or for holding any little items that you simply struggle to find a home for.

We use them in our caddys and I also have a grab jar, that has scissors, glue, and pencils in it that I can take with us, if we go outside or to another room for our studies.

11. Go Digital for Homeschool Storage

Lastly, go digital for audio books and e-books, scheduling, record keeping, planning, curriculum, and the list goes on.

If you are overrun with papers, figure out a way to get the same great resources but in digital form. Nowadays, curriculum companies are offering digital teacher’s manuals and book lists. Also, check if your library uses Hoopla , or maybe even invest in a digital book resource like Audible .

Digital homeschool teacher planners and student planners are also a nice way to cut down on the paper trail. As well as scheduling programs like Trello for homeschool .

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Awesome storage ideas for homeschool! Thanks for sharing!

Thank you! Absolutely!

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Creating a Homework Station – 10 Spaces We Love

Set your kids up for some Back-to-School SUCCESS with a special spot to study and complete their assignments! Here are 10 favorite homework station ideas that will make doing homework a little less painful.

Here are a few more Homework Helps you might enjoy –  Homework Punch Cards + Rewards System,   Portable Homework Station,   Make Your Own Family Command Center , and  Reading Log for kids.

Kids Homework Station

Homework time can be a challenge for any family, but if kids have a dedicated study station with all the supplies they need for their assignments and projects, it’s so much easier to concentrate and get stuff done!

From a small homework nook with a homework caddie to a room with multiple study zones, here are 10 homework stations that kids will love! Take a look and get inspired to create the perfect workstation in your home. (Consider this your homework assignment!)

10 Homework Stations

See how Postbox Designs took a boring white hallway and transformed it into a perfect Homework Station! (This space is seriously my favorite!!)

I love this bright white homework area at the top of the stairs, from Decor Pad. The extra storage on top of those shelves is perfect! Such a great use of space!

The colors in this kid’s workspace are perfection! I love the drawers that separate the workspaces. From Home Bunch.

All the heart eyes for this clean and simple Double Homework Station by Decor Pad. That map wall is amazing and would be great for elementary school kids and teens, too!

Young House Love proves you don’t have to spend a ton on a functional DIY Homework Station . (Isn’t it pretty?!)

This Kid’s Computer Work Station is clean and simple… just the way I like it! From The Spruce.

A great way to maximize space, and avoid sibling contention! (BONUS!) I love this  Double Work Station by BHG.

A Wall Mounted Homework Desk is a great way to save on space. From BHG.

An organized cart from IKEA and a vintage school desk make this small space cute and functional! All the pencils, pens, crayons, markers, notebooks, glue, scissors, and erasers are within arm’s reach. From Design Improvised.

Last, but not least, this kid’s homework station from Hobby Lobby has all the fun supplies that make my heart happy! Who wouldn’t want to do their homework assignments in this home office? (Perfect for crafts, too!)

Busy moms, this one is for YOU!

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40 DIY Desk Organizers Ideas For A Tidy Workstation

We all have moments of clutter and messes taking over. If you don’t have a good organization system going for yourself, it might just make you feel lethargic and unable to get things done. With some good DIY desk organizer ideas, you can easily arrange your important documents, stack your craft supplies and keep your pens, pencils and markers within reach.

A desk organizer is also a great way to show off your creativity if you make them yourself. You can use almost anything to build your desk organization unit – wood, cardboard, old mason jars, tin cans, pvc pipes and even popsicle sticks. All of these materials will work to give a different vibe and appearance to your work space. This is a great way for your personality to come through in your space as well.

To make it easier for you, we have put together an extensive list of some amazing DIY desk organization ideas to help you get started on your journey. Hopefully with these, you can find the inspiration to organize your space as well as your mind while you work.

Also check –

• 24 DIY Pencil Holder and Stands For An Organised Desk
• 27 Ridiculously Easy DIY Bookends For Your Shelves
• 22+ Beautiful DIY Floating Shelves to Save Space

1. Acrylic Desk Accessories

Image and tutorial by justdestinymag

This desk organizer tray DIY makes a really good open filing system. Pairing those with the adorable foil pen holders just elevates the look of the desk as a whole. It’s a really nice way to organize your desk in an elegant way while still being really efficient. Use this DIY desktop organizer idea to kickstart your workspace decor.

Also, read –  45 Unique Bedroom Organization Ideas To Declutter Your Space

2. DIY Painted Boxes

Image and tutorial by frugalcouponliving

Combine two of your favorite things together in this desk organizer DIY and make the best of both worlds. Painting is so therapeutic. Combining it with this DIY wood desk organizer is really going to bring out your creativity. Plus it is just more fun when you finally get to organizing your desk after finishing these wooden boxes.

3. 80s Inspired Desktop Organizer

Image and tutorial by akailochiclife

Bright colours and fun patterns dominated the 80s. And the same goes for these DIY wooden desk organizer plans. It’s great if you want to sort your papers and cards more easily. Plus the funky geometric shapes add so much dimension to this cute DIY desktop organizer.

Read –  28 Best DIY Standing Desk Ideas For Your WFH Set-Up

4. Modern Office Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by sugarandcloth

A tidy work space makes for an efficient mind. And this DIY desk organizer wood and cork display is a great place to start.

5. Wood Drawer Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by uglyducklinghouse

Who doesn’t like drawers to store their things in an organized way? This DIY desk drawer organizer is a genius way to compartmentalize. Best part? Use all the scrap wood you can find. This way you can mix and match. There are a lot of different ways you can use the different slots in this DIY wooden desk organizer.

6. Single Board Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by poppytalk

This DIY wood desk organizer is great if you like keeping track of things you need while working. It’s got a unique yet clean way of displaying all your desk items. Since it stands up, it doesn’t take a lot of space either. It is an easy DIY desktop organizer that can be done in one day, so do try it out.

7. DIY Hanging Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by designsponge

Accessible notepads and pens are the essence of an organizational unit. This is a very different kind of DIY desk organizer idea. It requires a hanging tree branch which will support the notepad and pen holder. It’s a great way to hold up reminder notes and jot down tasks on the go. If you are looking for a minimal desk organizer DIY, then you’ll do well with this one.

8. Pegboard Desk Organizer DIY

Image and tutorial by cravingsomecreativity

Pegboards are probably the best way to make a desk organizer DIY on a budget. This one is easy to make and can be completed in an hour. You can customize a pegboard as you wish. It can hold your papers, pens, craft items, you can hang other containers from it. The sky’s the limit with this simple DIY desk organizer.

9. Stencil Art Desktop Organizer

Image and tutorial by sisterssuitcaseblog

The best way to get some inspiration while working is to make sure that you have a good organizational unit. And sometimes, sprucing up a drawer you already have might just be the key to that. This cube organizer desk DIY is great for a standard box you already use to store your office supplies. Using stencil to personalize your space is a nice touch as well. If you’ve been looking for ways to customize your DIY organizer, then you should start with this one.

10. DIY Adjustable Desk Shelf

Image and tutorial by thehandymansdaughter

Instead of cramming everything into drawers, display your supplies on shelves. This is a better way to actually stay organized. This DIY wooden desk organizer plans your space in a way that is efficient. It is a great project if you have scrap wood with you Since the pieces are movable, you actually have a drawer like effect. This DIY wood desktop organizer can easily accommodate items according to your needs and space requirements.

11. Chic DIY Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by angelamariemade

Space to stack your notepads and loose pages. A few compartments for your pens and markers. Maybe even a spot for your phone to rest in while you work. This DIY wooden desk organizer has it all. It is chic and classic while also being understated. If you like having a space for everything while you work, a DIY wood desk organizer like this is perfect.

Read-  35 Tool Storage Ideas For Easy Organization

12. Modern Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by lovelyindeed

Probably the most innovative way to make a desk organizer is to use the one thing most abundantly available – oven bake clay. The most attractive thing about this cube organization desk DIY is that it has a natural marbling appearance. Every time you make this, it will be a different and unique pattern so that is great too.

Read – 41 DIY Desk Plans To Create A Productive Workstation

13. PVC Pipe Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by designsbystudioc

Cubby holes in different sizes are probably the cutest idea I have ever seen. You can create this adorable desk organizer DIY for as little as $10. Isn’t it great? Cutting a bevel on one end of each pipe sure does create a nice visual aspect for this cute desk organizer. However, if you want you can opt for the conventional straight tubes as well.

14. Popsicle Stick Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by broogly

If you have a lot of popsicle sticks handy then this is a great way to utilize them. A DIY popsicle stick desk organizer is a fun way to get your children to do crafts. Plus they’re going to learn to organize all these crayons and pencils well with projects like these. This fantiastic desk organizer will take a maximum of half an hour to complete but the fun and memories stay forever.

15. Tin Can Pyramid Desktop Organizer

Image and tutorial by oregonlive

Always looking for unique and quirky ways to use your surplus tin cans? Well why not turn them into desk organizer DIY projects? This is probably the easiest yet most innovative of all the ideas for DIY desk organizers on this list. Stacking your tin cans in the shape of a pyramid not only allows for easier access but makes a very visually appealing structure as well.

16. DIY Mountain Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by dreamalittlebigger

Sometimes while working it can be easy to let your mind wander. Especially if you have a cluttered workspace. This DIY wooden desk organizer plans all your work for your so that you are able to work without distractions. Having a cute desk organizer also ensures that your desk looks like it’s holding artwork while being useful as well. If you like mountains and valleys, you should try this one out for sure.

17. Mail Organizer DIY

Image and tutorial by thestonybrookhouse

Do you end up leaving your mail and work papers all over the living room tables and forgetting about them? With this simple and easy DIY desk organizer, you can stack all your important papers in one place. This makes it easy to sort everything into important and unimportant piles as well. And think of all the space you’ll save with this such cardboard desk organizer ideas.

18.  Homework Station Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by anikasdiylife

This has been deemed a perfect get back to school project. This DIY wood desk organizer uses scrap wood to hold paper stacks. Along with that, having containers to hold your pens and markers is a great idea. So much that you can unhook these and take them with you if needed. Now isn’t that a handy and cute school desk organizer.

19. Colourful Geometric Desk Organizer

This colourful geometric DIY wood desk organizer will be the icing on the cake for your desk space. It is bright and colourful and perfect no matter what your age is. Even though you will need some power tools to finish this desk organizer DIY it is still really simple to do. When you’re not stacking your papers and books here, it will still look like a great piece of artwork. And isn’t that what we want to see on our work desks.

20. Monitor Raising Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by abutterflyhouse

These types of DIY wood desk organizer plans look like cozy units in themselves don’t they. You can incorporate so much into this type of DIY desk organizer. There are shelves for stacking notepads and papers. Also, the drawers are great for holding spare pens and marks you might need while working. All in all, this detailed tutorial will show you exactly how to build the desk organizer of your dreams.

21. Clip On Desk Organizers

Image and tutorial by brit

This DIY desk organizer tutorial will really help you save space in the best way possible. Clip on containers can be customized as you wish and you can really experiment after getting a little nidge from the instructions. Not only do you free your desk of all unnecessary articles like pens and markers, they’re still easily accessible whenever you do need them.

22. Pencil Shaped Desk Organized

Image and tutorial by southernrevivals

For something unique, fun and memorable, make this DIY wood desk organizer in the shape of a pencil. It is really easy and with a little finesse, you will be able to make more than one of these in no time. If you like cute DIY desk organizers, you should definitely give this a try.

23. Lego Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by kidsactivitiesblog

If you put your mind to it, you can build almost anything out of legos. And this creative cube organizer desk DIY is no different. This little project is great to do with kids and will enhance their creativity as well. It is bright and colourful. You can surely customize this to be bigger or smaller. And even make multiple DIY desk organizers if you like.

24. School Supplies Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by majhofftakesawife

Stacking everything in easy to reach containers is so much better than shoving them into random drawers and finding them jumbled up later. This DIY wooden desk organizer hack is a simple solution to that problem. You can use this desk organizer tray DIY to align all your containers of school supplies on your desk. This way you can reach them whenever you need.

25. Composition Book Themed Mason Jar Pencil Holder

Image and tutorial by masonjarcrafts

This one makes me really nostalgic for school days. Mason jars are probably the best type of DIY desk organization ideas. This is the type of idea that makes for really great gifts as well. All you need is some paint and you can get these done in no time. Get ready to have quirky nostalgic and cute desk organizer DIY.

26. DIY Concrete Pen Holders

Image and tutorial by prettyhandygirl

All of us have reached over to take something from our pencil holders and had it topple over at least once. Now there is a solution for that with this concrete desk organizer. This way, you have a sturdy base that makes sure everything stays where it is supposed to be. Now that is a clever clever DIY desk organizer idea.

27. DIY Desk Accessory Set

Image and tutorial by hgtv

Containers really do make great and easy DIY desk organizers. This tutorial will show you how to paint and embellish your containers for a cool desk organizer DIY. It’s a great way to tie up and try to match the decor of your office space. Also, this way all your supplies will be within reach and you’re recycling old containers at the same time.

28. Drawer and Shelf Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by woodshopdiaries

If you have some space wood lying around this is a great little DIY wood desk organizer tutorial. The little drawer is a great way to make sure that your little nick nacks don’t get lost anywhere, plus you can hide the surplus of your supplies. If you have some experience with wood working, this desk organizer DIY will be a breeze.

29. Painted Storage Boxes

Image and tutorial by tellloveandparty

Sometimes when you put your office supplies away it becomes a story of out of sight, out of mind. This is an easy DIY desk organizer hack to curb that tendency. Although it’s not bang in your face with all the supplies being displayed, it has its perks. These colourful storage boxes come in handy when you want to store the rolls of ribbon and stacks of paper you bought wholesale.

30. Smart Catch All Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by designformankind

You might require a bit of time on your hands to be able to do this DIY desk organizer cardboard idea completely. It is extensive but completely worth it. Probably one of the most unique looking DIY desk organizers on this list, it is a really great way to store your office supplies. Did I mention it was completely customizable?

31. Colourful DIY Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by asubtlerevelry

Some of us like having our office supplies out on display instead of hidden away in drawers. This inexpensive and easy DIY desk organizer will serve you in many ways. This is a great idea to use even in the kitchen for your spoons and spatulas. You can even pin up recipes for easy reference.You can also make it into a rainbow desk organiser idea by choosing the VIBGYOR colours for the holders.

32. Shoebox Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by crazycraftlady

When we say that we can build a desk organizer out of anything we set our minds to, we really do mean it. This is a handy DIY cardboard desk organizer that can be done quickly and easily. The great thing about DIY desk organizer ideas like these is how effective they are at space saving. You can fit everything you want into this shoebox and call it a day.

33. DIY Recycled Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by modpodgerocksblog

If you like crafting, then you’re going to love this DIY cardboard desk organizer idea. It’s a great way to recycle your old cereal boxes and toilet paper rolls to make something useful. And let’s be honest, we can all do with a handy desk organizer in our lives.

Also, this is a fairly inexpensive cute DIY desktop organizer as you can find most supplies rather cheaply. Overall however, it is up to you to design and customize this DIY project to your preferences.

34. Eames Inspired DIY Desk Organizer

Image and tutorial by monsterscircus

This is one of those offbeat and unique DIY desk organizer ideas that look difficult but aren’t. It is budget friendly when you make it using felt instead of leather and gives the same effect. This desk organizer DIY can be used to keep a bunch of different things like keys, notes and miscellaneous office supplies you want.

35. DIY Faux Metal Desk Organizer

Cereal boxes are all you will need to make this DIY cardboard desk organizer. With some careful painting techniques, these boxes will look like weathered metal in no time. You can customize this easy DIY desktop organizer to your needs by adding as many compartments as you like. Once you add the office supplies, you can be sure that this will be the highlight on your work desk.

36. Upcycled DIY Desk Organisers

Image and tutorial by yesterdayontuesday

You want to create a desk organization unit but don’t know where to start? Well now you do. This is an easy and inexpensive tutorial for you to make a desk organizer tray DIY. All you need are old tin cans and some paint to get this done.

Since it is pretty straight forward, you can ask your children to help you with this cute DIY desktop organizer. It is a great way to save space and have all your office supplies gathered up in one place.

37. DIY Constellation Desk Organizers

Image and tutorial by markmontano

Have cardboard boxes lying around? Use them to build these constellation DIY cardboard desk organizers. It’s a great way to recycle old items and the pattern is so dreamy as well. This DIY cardboard desk organizer template needs very little supplies and even less time to finish. Give these to anyone who likes galaxy themed decorations and they will be really happy.

38. Desk Set Organizer

Image and tutorial by inmyownstyle

Recycle, reuse and repurpose is the mantra used while making this cardboard DIY diy desktop reference organizer. Even though it is a really simple project, using little decorative bits and pieces can change the look if it. For example, you can use ribbons and beads on the perimeters. It is an easy desktop organizer project to bring out your creativity.

39. DIY Wood Desktop Organization Unit

Image and tutorial by learn.kregtool

You will most likely be looking for a functional yet fantastic looking desk organizer. With this easy DIY wood desk organizer, everything has a dedicated space that’s easy to access. If you are good with wood working, you will be able to assemble this in no time.

This is a simple project even for those who are just getting started and want to make their own diy desktop reference organizer.

40. Cardboard Desk Organizer with Drawers

Image and tutorial by icreativeideas

Want a good DIY cardboard desk organizer but don’t know where to begin? This is the perfect tutorial for that situation. It has multiple dividers and drawers so that you can get the most out of your space. You can use it to store stationery, keys, accessories, even cell phones. Isn’t that neat?

You can even decorate and customize it easily since it is a DIY cardboard desk organizer template. Whether you decide to use wrapping paper or fabric, you can be sure that such DIY desk organizer ideas are bound to stand out.

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46 home office storage ideas to keep your work space organised to perfection

Keep your focus by keeping mess out of sight

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Creating a workspace in the comfort of your own home is more essential now than ever before. Whether its a separate room, a corner of a kitchen or an understairs nook, ensuring you have the best home office storage ideas is the best way to streamline a work zone and boost productivity. 

Not only are homes now the space for WFH days, home office ideas will provide a spot for working on a side-hustle business or a creative hobby. Plus, they can be used by the whole family, whether it's for kids' homework or even for household admin. Each purpose has a different need, so it's important that the space works for you, and storage is integral to creating a useful space.

'To maximise storage in an existing office, carefully consider what you use and recycle items that you don’t for a streamlined space,' advises Philipp Nagel, Director, Neatsmith .

'For a home new office, time spent with a designer, going through exactly what use you will have for the space is key. A lawyer working from home will have different requirements to a broker or musician’s space. Work out the physical requirements e.g., screens, charging points, camera positions, filing type, bookshelf depth and make it work with the available space.'

Home office storage ideas

There's a style of storage to suit every working from home area, no matter the size or style. One thing that's essential to consider with any type of home office storage ideas is what you actually want to be on show. 

Do you like to spread out your work and inspirations? Or are you working in an open plan space and want everything to be neatly tucked away when you're finished for the day?

Whatever your dream office, there's a way to make the storage benefit both your work and your design goals.

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1. Go for mid-century style

While storage is essential in a home office space, you also want it to be creatively inspiring. This means choosing furniture that reflects your personal style so it feels energising to work in, even through long days. 

'A home office should be an eclectic extension of one’s personality and in sharp contrast to a corporate environment,' echoes Sarah Kocher, CEO of Life of Riley . 

Taking inspiration from mid-century living room ideas is also a great way to achieve an on-trend look, but it also often comes with ample space in drawers for office essentials. 

2. Double up with wall and base storage

If you're trying to pack in as much storage as possible, it's important to make the most of the height of a room with both wall and base units. Opting for a built-in look, similar to kitchens, means that you maximise every inch of space available. 

No matter whether you have a large or small home office , making the most of cupboards at both heights offers plenty of room for keeping things within arm's reach or tucked away for safe keeping.

3. Create a bookshelf wall

If you're looking to achieve a reading room aesthetic, then opting for a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf is the way forward. It's a great way to make the most of wall space and can even work in smaller home offices as it limits chunky furniture and adds to a cosy feel. 

You don't just have to decorate with books either – a whole-wall shelving system will act as the perfect place for showcasing photographs, knick-knacks, or even a printer. There are so many shelving ideas to suit any household so you can easily match it to your taste.

4. Keep it tucked away

We're not all blessed with a separate space for a home office, so combining an office area with storage will give you the best of both worlds. Making use of a wardrobe or going bespoke with a built-in cupboard can provide a spot to pull up a chair and work, with it also being easy to shut away. 

The key to effective storage is making it work with the wider room and decor. So, if you have a pop-up home office within an open-plan kitchen, for example, then having the storage system work with the rest of the interior will streamline the overall layout . 

5. Prop up a ladder

Don't be afraid to make the most of the height of a room, as adding a ladder is an easy way to make home office essentials accessible.  

While you might still want to put your least-used books or officeware on the top shelf, a ladder will mean that you can still get to it when needed. It also adds to a quintessential home office design that feels like a grand at-home library. 

6. Add on-trend rattan

Rattan is one of the latest trends and there are a plethora of storage cabinets in this style on the high street. Alternatively, you can DIY your own with IKEA hacks that make it simple to transform flatpack furniture. 

This takes a storage unit from plain to on-trend, providing plenty of space for bulky home office equipment such as a printer or cables while ensuring your workspace feels pretty to sit in.

7. Make room for memos

Juggling work, chores and a social life can be tough, so creating an organisation method in a home office that helps you remember key events will make daily life that little bit simpler.  

A memo board is a great way of achieving this as you can easily pin up notices such as invitations or post-it notes to keep them right in front of your eyes. It also acts as a home office wall decor idea , creating the opportunity for you to pin inspiring images and art to keep you going through tiring days.

8. Add stylish floating shelves

When it comes to choosing storage for your modern home office ideas , floating shelves are the way forward. They can be as thick or thin as you desire, but can create an especially contemporary style statement when there are strong, wide lines above your working area.

For a cohesive look, make sure the colour of your shelving matches your desk and other office furniture.

9. Use picture rails for flexibility

For creative minds, craft room ideas or simply those who like to mix things up, then look to picture rails.

This simple way of arranging prints, frames and other slim objects means as well as being an example of neat and narrow home office storage ideas, it's easy to change things up for a new display. 

10. Use every inch with bespoke storage

Whether you're working with a large or small home office, going down the bespoke route can be a gamechanger. 

'We prefer bespoke solutions which incorporate floor to ceiling shelving and built-in desks utilising as may walls as possible within the room,' says Tom Rutt, Founder, TR Studio . 'This allows for maximum usage of the space for storage and complete flexibility also.'

'The floor to ceiling shelving can be used for stacking books and storage baskets are a sophisticated way to house paperwork. Intermixed with pieces of art and objet, shelving can be a very sleek way of using storage in the home office.'

11. Create wall decor out of storage

Get two for one by combining your home office storage ideas with home office wall decor .

Shadow boxes can create quite the statement when attached to the wall to use as open storage. Choose interestingly shaped frames to make further impact, and if your space could do with a hit of pattern or colour, then wallpaper their backs.

12. Keep things uniform

Home office storage ideas don't have to be purely practical - they can add to your interior scheme, too.

Avoid home office design mistakes by sticking to a strict uniform. As you do when designing a room, choose 2-3 colours to become the main focus. Use these for your storage boxes or the likes of HAY storage crates and shelves in addition to your walls and furniture. As well as colour, consider shape. 

Either go for linear and geometric designs, or choose shapes and patterns with a rounded or curved element.

13. Take things up high

When considering home office layout ideas , keep potential storage solutions in mind - and don't just look around you.

Utilise the space above your desk and, if possible, add in shelving near the ceiling. This is a perfect spot for items you don't need on a daily basis. Plus, being out of eyeline this won't make the area feel cluttered.

14. Blend shelves in with the wall

Shelving ideas don't always have to shout about their existence. Paint your shelving to match your walls so they disappear. 

This is great for a more minimalist look, but also works in maximalist settings as the colours of objects on the shelves look even bolder and brighter by comparison.

15. Stick to a colour scheme

Tie your home office storage ideas in with the rest of your scheme. 

Choose pieces with match your home office desk ideas , seating and lighting. If you have a statement paint colour or wallpaper, link this in through storage boxes or objects on display.

16. Get creative with open storage

Open storage can be much more multipurpose than you might think. Fill cubbies with objects and books as you already would, but alternate others will storage boxes and baskets.

This is an especially great ideas if it's linked to kids rooms – perhaps for homework – as it's easy to keep organised, but can also be quite creative and playful.

17. Use unexpected pieces

There's no rule that says you can only use purpose made home office furniture in the space. If you have – or find – a piece you love, then why not repurpose it to become unique home office storage ideas?

As long as it sits neatly in the space and holds what you need it to hold, then go for it!

18. Use wall storage to house tech

Squeeze a slimline desk in with your kitchen diner ideas or an alcove, so you’ve somewhere to set up desk on a working-from-home day.

A wire rack makes a handy noticeboard above a desk and with the addition of a few clip-on baskets gives somewhere to store phones and tablets. Position your desk near a power source so equipment can charge while you work.

19. Hide everything away in a ‘cloffice’

The latest WFH trend, a ‘cloffice’ is a combination of ‘closet’ and ‘office’ - or in other words, a desk in a cupboard. A great way of solving all your storage issues in one hit, an office-in-a-cupboard has the added benefit of everything getting hidden away behind closed doors when work is done.

Try and opt for a cupboard that has room for a monitor, pull-out keyboard shelf and cupboard space underneath for a printer. The addition of a pinboard on each door for notes and reminders can be extremely useful, too.

They're not typically the cheapest of items to pick up, so it's advisable to go through home furnishing discount codes to find the perfect piece for less.

20. Squeeze desktop storage into an alcove

Make use of an empty alcove if you’re needing to set up desk in a bedroom or living area. A slimline ladder-style desk won’t protrude into a room too much and makes a great landing spot for a laptop or tablet.

Choose a design with several shelves so you have space for books and files and discreet hidden drawers like this one so you can tidy smaller odds and ends away.

21. Build a wall of storage

Take office storage floor to ceiling with a flexible shelving system that can be tailored to suit your space. Position it adjacent to your desk, so you can grab paperwork and essentials as and when you need it.

Start your set-up with uprights and support brackets to create a framework, then add a combination of shelves, racks, panels or drawers as required.

22. Work with moveable furniture

Keep craft tools and supplies to hand by storing them in a mobile storage cart. Go for a trolley on castors that can be slotted underneath a desk – it can be rolled away out of sight when you’ve finished working.

Choose a tiered trolley to help you keep the contents organised. Plastic cartons and shallow trays inside each tier make great dividers so you can keep small-scale items separate. 

23. Set up a freestanding family hub

Keep the dinner table free for food prep and mealtimes by squeezing in a mini landing table for the family laptop.

Go for a compact, floor-standing design, with a couple of drawers and shelves for storage and a memo board above for notes and reminders. And make sure to position it by a power source for easy charging.

24. Make a ‘micro’ work space in a corner

If you’re super-pushed for space, consider setting up desk in a hallway or on an upstairs landing. A compact, triangular-shaped desk will slot into a vacant corner and will provide enough space to sit with a laptop or work on paperwork.

Keep a ‘clear desk’ policy and make sure you put everything away when you’ve finished working – cluttered desks will make a room look untidy. A desk with one or two slimline drawers will give storage for paperwork.

25. Keep clutter out of sight

If not kept super-tidy, open shelves can easily look messy, especially if you’re working out of a living room or bedroom ideas .

Corral small-scale clutter away into pretty baskets or decorative storage boxes and stack neatly on shelves. Choose a colour theme that ties in with your decor for a co-ordinated look.

26. Work ‘on-the-go’ with a mobile storage unit

If your WFH set-up varies depending on which family member has nabbed the best spot, then a storage unit on wheels is a brilliant open-plan living room idea . 

It will keep all your essentials organised and in one place, so you can wheel it into play when you need it, whether you’re working at a desk or from the kitchen table.

27. Organise your desktop with see-through caddies

Store stationery, pens and small-scale bits and bobs in clear plastic boxes so you can see where everything is at a glance. These come in a range of sizes and stack neatly on top of each other.

‘Make sure everything has a home, so tidying is something you do almost without thinking about,’ says professional organiser Vicky Silverthorn .

‘Desk tidies are useful if they suit your belongings, but not if they’re too small and fiddly. And don’t have excess supplies, bulk buying just creates the need for more storage.’

28. Choose a desk with a drawer to hide that laptop

If you’re working out of your living room ideas then set a ‘clear desk’ policy so that office clutter doesn’t encroach on your living space. 

Add a desk with a drawer, so that as soon as you are ready to clock off, you can hide your laptop away and not be reminded of that still-to-be-completed to-do list.

29. Set up an easy filing system

‘When it comes to filing paperwork, avoid an over-complicated system,’ says professional organiser Vicky. ‘Anything too complex requires too much brain power. A good filing system should work with you and not against.’

It could be as simple as a plastic folder with tabs for different aspects of paperwork. Or treat yourself to a desktop unit with a drawer for each aspect of your work life.

30. Go incognito with hidden storage

Double-up with seating and storage combined with a neat filing ottoman. A perfect example of home office storage ideas when you don't have a separate study, you can choose an option with a memo board on the back of its lift-up lid, plus space for hanging files inside.

31. Choose a design classic

Keep things stacked with filing cabinets, desk tidies and box files. 

As iconic as an Eames chair or a Smeg fridge, the Bisley is the ultimate filing cabinet. It comes in a smorgasbord of colours and sizes, so there is honesty one for every office. 

'These are my favourite and come in five, ten and fifteen drawer options, so you can choose how many you need to suit your work load,' says Vicky. 'And they're slim and compact so can stand neatly next to a desk or slot underneath it.'

32. House tech in a dedicated unit

Store office tech, like printers and hubs, alongside other home media so that electricals don’t take over your living space. 

Select a media cabinet with mesh doors that blur tech from view but allow infra-red signals through, so you can still operate equipment. And to avoid a tangle of wires, the back of the cabinet is open for easy cable management.

33. Choose a modular set up

Create a tailor-made storage solution to suit your space using modular pieces. Carve out a corner plot or build a whole wall of storage with an off-the-peg system that includes corner sections, ladder shelving and desk add-ons.

34. Repurpose containers

Simply wash out your prettiest tin cans after use and use them as cost-effect savvy home office storage ideas solution. Ensure there no sharp edges of course. Ideal if you have never needed to work form home and suddenly find yourself with a makeshift office.

35. Keep clutter behind closed doors

Out of sight, out of mind is the best motto for a home office. Ensure your work space doesn't encroach on your living space by keeping it hidden away using thought out home office storage ideas. Give all your storage a dedicated cupboard with a trolley you can wheel desk-side and lot of boxes, files and jars to keep it all under control.

Not surprisingly, given how many more of us are working from home, it's becoming one of the hottest kitchen trends  – or you could try it in a bedroom.

36. Style it out with beautiful storage boxes

If you don't want to have your home office impact on the rest of your decor, try using beautiful solutions for storage – so they blend in seamlessly. Use wooden crates, and storage trunks and trinket boxes to hideaway any telltale signs of work papers and other office accessories.

This type of home office storage ideas can be pushed under the desk at the end of each day and won't look out of place within the interior.

37. Add in a trellis

Whether it’s a montage of your favourite photos or a shelf full of quirky accessories, group items together to create an inspirational focal point. 

Look to your garden trellis ideas and make your own handy wall organiser. This is a perfect addition to garden home office ideas , too, as it will feel bang on theme.

38. House your printer in a chest of drawers

Just because you have to have this bulky office gadget handy to get the job done, doesn't mean it as to impose on your decor. 

By removing the bottom drawer from a chest of drawers you have the perfect stylish space to house a printer. For an extra decorative touch you can change the legs on the chest, to offer a less 'officey' look.

39. File in – vintage -style

Stay on top of life admin with home office storage ideas and filing systems that are as practical as they are pretty. Keep outstanding paperwork in order by storing in vintage desktop drawers for rustic charm.

40. Hang a handy wall unit

If you're lacking space in your home, fashioning an office in a room that might not necessarily be your first choice, such as within small bedroom ideas , might be your only option.

A smart way to tackle storage when space is limited is by keeping it under the radar, with a clever wall storage solution. A wall-mounted unit with a flip-down surface works double as a pop-up workspace and a handy storage unit.

41. Mount a peg board

You could buy an off the shelf board, or have a go at making your own for your home office storage ideas.

All you need is a piece of MDF cut to size and a drill with a 15mm bit. A two tone paint job, achieved with tester pots completes the job. Cut pieces of dowelling to use to hang Washi tape, scissors and other stationery.

42. Upcycle an old filing cabinet

There's always a way to integrate upcycled furniture ideas into your home. 

It's also a budget-friendly way of achieving stylish home office storage ideas since you can pick up old filing cabinets in junk shops and flea markets relatively cheaply. A lick of paint and labels or stencils can then turn them into something beautiful.

43. Panel a wall in cork

Turn your wall into one big pin board with cork tiles. Important paperwork and bills then needn't pile up on the desk or lie forgotten in a tray, as you can pin it in plain sight, ready to be dealt with. You can pick up cork tiles for a few pounds in most DIY stores, so it's an inexpensive solution, too.

44. Go full width with wall shelves

Wall-to-wall shelving is the dream when it comes to a home office, offering oodles of storage. It does have a tendency to look messy if not styled properly, however. To avoid this, keep to a strict colour palette and use boxes and box files to contain clutter.

45. Go matchy-matchy

Coordinating office furniture pieces say 'executive', as well as offering plentiful storage. The trick here is not to put your desk against the wall. Instead, place it in the middle of the room and voila – you've made space for a bookcase.

46. Be practical with industrial storage

Industrial pieces are ideal if you're not sure how much storage you need, as you can build it up over time – the more mismatched, the better! Stack trunks to store larger items and store stationery in wall-mounted wire baskets so you won't have to rummage for it in drawers.

How to make the most of home office storage for small spaces

Home offices have become significantly more commonplace in recent years, with more people working from home than ever. However, this doesn't necessarily mean our houses have got any bigger, so many are faced with the issue of adding a spot for working in an existing room.

Converting smaller rooms in your home is also popular, but this means that the design has to be extremely streamlined to include ample storage for pens, notepads, and larger office equipment.

'Home office storage has become a must-have since the pandemic, floating shelves are an excellent way of allowing additional storage space, without taking up precious floor area, particularly useful in smaller rooms,' advises Cleo Allen, design account director at Andrew Henry Interiors .

'Another tip is to utilise the entire wall of a home office and build bespoke built-in shelving, and a desk with drawers or filing cabinets to keep your workspace organised. Also, to keep your home office clutter-free, we suggest investing in a cable management system to keep all your wires and leads tangle-free and out of sight.'

How do I maximise storage in a home office?

When it comes to home office storage ideas, the most useful thing you can do is to plan things through. There's no point buying caddies and boxes if you don't have somewhere handy to put them. And what storage you bring into the space needs to have a specific purpose.

'The best way to organise storage in a home office is with the use of bespoke filing cabinets,' advises Philipp from Neatsmith. 'Look for recessed, wireless charging points, drawer dividers and bespoke depth shelves for specific folders and/or books will ensure the space is ordered and cohesive.'

Amy Cutmore is an experienced interiors editor and writer, who has worked on titles including Ideal Home , Homes & Gardens , LivingEtc , Real Homes , GardeningEtc , Top Ten Reviews and Country Life . And she's a winner of the PPA's Digital Content Leader of the Year. A homes journalist for two decades, she has a strong background in technology and appliances, and has a small portfolio of rental properties, so can offer advice to renters and rentees, alike. 

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10 Tools to Organize Your Homeschool

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When you’re a homeschool mom, you need to organize homeschool stuff: papers, routines, and schedules; it gives the new school year a good chance for success.

Whether you have a dedicated homeschool room or cart your homeschool supplies from living room to kitchen table and back again, you can make sense of the new homeschool year and all its trappings with good organization.

Here are 10 favorite homeschool organization ideas and simple tips to help you enjoy your homeschool and your time with your kids a whole lot more.

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So you’re homeschooling…

Whether this is something you’ve been wanting to do for some time or a choice you made in just the last year or two, welcome to the party! I’m officially starting my 21st year of homeschooling with about 4 more to go. It has been one of my best life decisions ever.

I’ve learned a lot over the years. Two kids have graduated college, two are currently in college, two are still on my watch. So far, the experiment is working!

Not just academically, either. I love each of my kids and the unique people they are becoming. They are people my husband and I love to be with! Homeschooling has played a big role in that.

Over the years, we’ve done school in small spaces and big ones. We’ve paid big bucks for pricey homeschool curriculum and art supplies and we’ve made good use of free homeschool supplies whenever they’ve crossed our paths. We’ve homeschooled away from home and hunkered down just like everyone else during lockdown.

One of the things that I’ve gleaned in this home education gig, is that organizing homeschool stuff: supplies, routines, and schedules is super duper important. Since we live, eat, sleep, and school at our home, there is a myriad of tasks — and stuff – to juggle.

If you don’t manage them well, there will be utter chaos. No thank you!

Are your kids in high school and college?

They will need different supplies. Check out our list of Back to School Must-Haves for High School and College .

What’s Important

I’ve found that you have not only to organize your homeschool, but also to do it in a way that suits your family’s personality and practice . There’s no right method of homeschool organization, but boy, you sure do need to do it!

If you’re wondering if your homeschool could run more efficiently, today’s the day to find out.

Here are the things that help us save money, time, and energy, and make homeschooling more fun: ten tools and tips to organize your homeschool:

An Academic Calendar

One of the beauties of homeschooling, is that in most cases, state law-depending, you get to create your own academic calendar . Not only does this allow you to be flexible with vacations and crazy family seasons, but it’s an ideal tool for homeschool planning.

Every summer I create a calendar for the year, matching it up with my husband’s work calendar. It’s better if I plan for school holidays when he has time off work as well. Student and teacher birthdays are considered school holidays so I mark those off, too.

Having a calendar ready helps me plan lessons and map our way through the curriculum.

If you’re coordinating online coursework, it’s important to know when they start and end and have weeks off, so your calendar is incredibly important for tracking your homeschool schedule.

You can buy the Organizing Life as Mom homeschool pack which includes a number of homeschooling organizers and calendars for the year, including the one pictured above.

Assignment Sheets, Assignment Binders and/or Student Planners

Depending on the grade and maturity of your students, you’re going to want a way to communicate and track their assignments. We’ve done this in three ways over the years: weekly assignment sheets, yearly assignment binders, and individual student planners.

Assignment sheets can be super helpful to organize your homeschool because you have to create lesson plans anyway, and your kids will benefit from knowing what’s on the docket for the day. These are included in the Organizing Life as Mom homeschool pack .

For years I relied on weekly assignment sheets to map out my kids’ work for the upcoming week. I found these to be super duper helpful, particularly for kids who love to check off the boxes every day.

It also allowed me to homeschool more than one kid at a time , knowing that the others could work independently on something while I worked one-on-one with another.

My only problem was that I could only plan one week at a time because I never knew how far we would get in a given week. If you’ve been homeschooling longer than a week, you know that things don’t go always according to plan. So much erasing!

Assignment binders were my answer to this dilemma. These binders held each child’s assignments for the whole school year !

I spent a week of each summer writing out every child’s assignments for every subject for the whole year. It was time well spent when I was managing many kids in coursework I was teaching myself.

We used the assignment binders to chart our course through the curriculum. If we skipped history one week, it was no big deal, we picked up where we left off — no erasing of weekly assignments involved or shifting of dates.

This was the best way that I could plan ahead without having to undo my own work.

As my kids hit junior high and high school and had teachers besides myself, I transitioned them to using their own Student Planners . In this way, kids learn to track their assignments themselves, something that will serve them on into college and graduate school.

The Student Planner works best for students from 6th grade to college. My freshman and junior college kids are currently using it as well as my high schoolers.

Color Coding

If you’ve got more than one child, I highly recommend assigning each child a color to organize your homeschool and all the stuff!

Here’s how to color code your homeschool:

• Assign each kid a color or let him or her choose if they can do it without fighting.
• Buy coordinating folders, binders, copy paper, even post-its in these colors.

You will know at a glance whose binder is whose instead of having to flip through and decipher handwriting.

I don’t know about you, but my homeschoolers don’t always write their names on their papers.

Dedicated Cubbies, Shelves, or Desks

A place for everything and everything in its place, right? No matter what fancy homeschool room ideas you may be entertaining, be sure to keep your storage ideas practical.

Organize your homeschool by making sure that every child knows where to find (and replace) his or her books and assignments. You will go crazy if you don’t make sure that they have places to put their school stuff.

Make it as easy as possible for your kids to put things away!

We’ve always dedicated the formal dining room of our home into a schoolroom . This works for us since we don’t mind eating in the kitchen. Guests get to see our real life schoolroom when we overflow to dining room-school room for meals.

We homeschool more than we entertain, you know?

Giving each child a cubby, or in the case of the teens, a dedicated shelf, makes it easy for them to find their books as well as know where to put them away. If it’s possible, give each his own desk, something we’ve only been able to accomplish once our kids were in junior high and above.

Pro tip: It really helps if you’ve got clean kids’ bedrooms . We’ve lost (and repurchased!) many a grammar/vocabulary/spelling book when a certain child did assignments in his room and then lost the book.

Organize your homeschool with dedicated storage for each child so you don’t have to rebuy books! Consider keeping school to certain areas of the house to prevent loss and confusion.

Clipboards are some of my favorite school supplies for homeschool as they are ideal, portable work spaces that hold papers together. Get enough for each child as well as yourself so that you each have a mobile work station and storage space.

You want your kids to feel organized, to be able to do school anywhere, including the hammock outside, so make it easy to do so.

If you can color code them, so much the better!

The Library Bag, Box, or Shelf

The library is a homeschooler’s best friend . There’s a wealth of knowledge to access within its walls for FREE — if you can avoid the ever pesky late fees.

Organize your homeschool resources by making sure your library check-outs don’t get mixed up. Placing them on a designated shelf or in a box/tote bag can make library returns so much easier!

School Records/Portfolios/Cumulative Files

Have a space for your longterm school records. Depending on what your state requires , you may need to save portfolios or cumulative files for longer than the school year. Be sure to have a designated space for this.

I keep a yearly expanding file for each kid in the school room. At the end of the year these get boxed up and stored for longterm in our homeschool library .

Kindles, tablets, or other devices

In this day and age, it’s pretty hard to do school without an electronic device of some kind.

Years ago, I bought each of the kids a Kindle Fire tablet for the first day of school. They were incredibly affordable and easy enough to load with learning apps and a way for the kids to turn in homework to me digitally without fighting over who was going to use the computer.

We used these for all kinds of things, including book storage, to-do lists, timers, music, movies and documentaries, and life skills. You can read more about how we use Kindles for homeschool.

A few years ago we retooled our school room. In addition to the desks for the three kids still on my watch, we bought each one a low-end laptop. With all of them doing online courses this year, it was imperative in order to make sure each student had access to his school work throughout the course of the day.

Do what works best for your family and your budget.

Supplies station

Inevitably there will be school and art supplies that all your students will need to access. If you can store these items in ways that are easy to find and even easier to put away, you will save yourself a lot of heartache.

We use an old dresser to organize homeschool supplies such as post-its, note cards, pens, pencils, crayons, paper, and art supplies. You might consider a portable tote for these things if you’re operating in a smaller space.

A standard operating procedure or SOP is an important tool to organize your homeschool. It involves making sure your kids KNOW all the systems you’ve put in place.

• Do they know what to do with completed work?
• Do they know where to put library books when they’re done reading?
• Do they know what the next assignment is?

By making these procedures clear to your kids — and possibly repeating them 5,436,987 times — you stand a chance of getting through the day without tearing out your hair. All the organizing ideas in the world won’t work if you don’t explain them to your kids and help them learn how to follow your system.

Your SOPs should also include procedures for YOU.

• Do you have a system for remembering when library books are due?
• When to file papers for the cumulative files?
• When you’re going to tackle lesson planning.

Develop your own SOPs and write them down so that you don’t have to think about what to do next. There’s enough to think about already as a homeschool mom!

More Homeschool Tips

Our Homeschool Curriculum for grades 12, 10, 8, 6, & 4

Putting Together a Homeschool Binder

Building Your Academic Calendar for Homeschooling

The Well-Trained Mind: A Road Map for Our Homeschool

What works for you.

Leave a comment below and let us know what works for you.

Originally published October 24, 2015, this post has been updated for content and clarity.

Wife to Bryan since 1994, mom of 6, cookbook author, writer, home educator, and to-do list maker. Learn more about Jessica.

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— and possibly repeating them 5,436,987 times — I’ve been there. 🙂 But it does pay off in the long run when the kids know what to do and when to do it, and they can work through things with a little less supervision.

We end up with library books EVERYWHERE. But we always get a printout that stays with the library card, so we can gather things up when it’s time to go back to the library.

Great strategy!

We have cloth bags for library books. We do one book in and one book out at a time. Every child is responsible for their own library books.

We homeschooled 15 years, relocated to a wonderful school district where our youngest two completed school, but I used all these tools. Please expand on the color-coding to every aspect of mama-hood. Towels, toothbrushes, drinking glasses, etc.. I instantly could see who left the mess, and nobody got confused and used someone else’s towels.

I started the color coding for homeschool things a few years back. Mostly to make clean-up easier. I automatically knew who still had their things out. But I have started to expand it a bit. It does come in handy.

Yes! When my littles were more numerous, we absolutely used the colors everywhere.

16 Beautiful Ways to Store & Organize Kids’ School Work Memories

If you’ve got kids, you’ve got school work. And art projects. Plus those holiday crafts. And they’re all coming home on a daily basis, year after year.

It’s a beautiful part of raising children, but it can also spiral into a mountain of clutter when we don’t have a system to store it all.

I often see parents asking for ideas on how to organize, store and display all of those school memories. It’s hard to know what to keep, what to toss (if you can bear to toss any of it) and how to keep it tidy!

I’ve researched and asked some of my fellow bloggers and parents for their favorite tips. Check them out below!

And, if you’d like to save these tips for later, just enter your info below. I’ll send them straight to your inbox!

Have tips sent to email to save for later:

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1. Declutter the School Work: What to Keep, What to Toss (or Sort of Toss)

Decluttering is always the first step in any organizing project. When it comes to school work, it’s a tough challenge. Nothing is quite as sentimental as the memories our children bring home.

The good news: you can keep it all if you really want to…without keeping it all physically in the house.

To declutter school work, first divide it into piles:

• Items you intend to display (like their best art projects)
• Items you intend to store and/or file (like a fabulous essay)
• Items that you’ll take a picture of (maybe) and then toss (like that math test they aced)

Let’s be honest here: not everything the kids bring home needs to take up space in the house forever. Some school work deserves to be celebrated for a short period of time; other memories are keepers.

I personally have no problem tossing my son’s tests and homework. We’ll celebrate an A grade by hanging it on the refrigerator for a few days, then it’s gone. I’ll keep an essay to file away if it’s particularly good. Same with the artwork; I only keep the best. The rest gets tossed immediately.

I realize some parents really struggle with throwing away anything their kid has touched. And sometimes, the kids really want to keep things. I get it! One great solution is to take a picture and store the image in a school work folder in the cloud. You can make memory books to view online (or even print). The goal is to reduce the paper clutter.

Once the school work is decluttered and sorted, there are some great ways to organize and store or display what you’ve chosen to keep— keep reading!

2. Use a Hanging File Folder Memory Box For Each Child

Erin from The DIY Nuts created this cute memory box system for filing her children’s milestones, school work, and art projects:

She used a plastic filing bin and labeled hanging folders to organize by school year. This is a great solution! The plastic bin is much sturdier than a cardboard box and will last through the years.

You can also opt for a cute, colored linen storage bin with handles:

3. Take Photos of School Work & Create an Online Memory Book

I mentioned in Tip #1 that you don’t have to physically keep all of the school work to “keep” it. You can take photos of art, tests, and essays and upload them to an online memory-sharing platform. The photos are stored online and you can view and share them with friends and family.

Check out Tinybeans.com for information on their online memories app.

4. Create a Slideshow of Each Year’s Work on Your TV or Digital Photo Frame

Eliminate the paper clutter of your kids’ school work and art…and display it larger than life on your TV or a digital photo frame.

Start with your smartphone and take a picture of each piece of work. You can organize the work in albums by child, school year, or event (like a holiday). It’s helpful to store the photos on cloud storage (or a USB thumb drive) so they don’t use up all of your phone’s storage space.

Share the photos to a smart TV, or use a digital photo frame like this:

You’ll always have access to your kids’ school memories, without the mountain of paper.

5. Turn School Work into Printed Memory Books

Kids’ artwork and school papers are bulky. A year’s worth of school memories can take up a LOT of space. When you want to keep the memories at home but don’t have sufficient storage space, a printed memory book is a good solution.

Take a photo of each piece of school work or art and upload it to a platform like Shutterfly . At the end of the school year, you can print a photo book for each child’s memories. Space-saver! These make nice gifts for grandparents and family members, too.

6. Scrapbook the School Work Memories

Scrapbooking is always a fun hands-on way to creatively organize and store those school memories. You can purchase a cute school-themed scrapbook like this:

It comes with ten 12×12 pages and can be expanded with sets of extra sheets. There are also cute school-themed decorative papers you can use to design each page:

7. Display Artwork With Twine & Clothespins

Got art that needs to be seen, not filed away? Display kids’ artwork on a rotating basis with this simple hallway gallery idea from A Hundred Affections. All it takes is some twine and clothespins. This would be perfect in a playroom or kid’s bedroom, too.

8. Create a Boho Art Wall With an Adjustable Hanging Kit

An empty wall becomes a memory art show with this cute magnetic display system. Great for photos, artwork, or a combination of the two. You can organize the pieces by year, by occasion (like holidays), or by child.

9. Recycle Kids’ Artwork Into Fun Pinwheels

Here’s an idea for recycling artwork that you can’t bear to throw away (yet it doesn’t meet the “keep forever” criteria). Make and Takes shows you step-by-step how to turn those art projects into pinwheels!

10. Store 50 Pieces of School Work or Art in a Single Wall Frame

This isn’t just a picture frame, it’s an art cabinet . These Li’l Davinci kids’ frames hold up to 50 pieces of art (9″x12″). You can easily swap out which work is on display each day or week. This is a great way to save storage space and see your kids’ art whenever you want.

11. Small Space School Work Storage: Turn Art into Magnets

This adorable idea from Tonya Staab takes “refrigerator art” to a whole new level. Check out her step-by-step instructions to turn school work and art projects into magnets using a phone, sticky photo paper, a photo printer, and magnet sheets.

12. Create Coasters from Kids’ School Work

Another cute and practical repurposing of kids’ projects: make coasters using their artwork, wood slices and Mod Podge.

Check out the step-by-step instructions on Mod Podge Rocks .

13. Put Your Kids’ Work in Lights

This beautiful storage solution for artwork puts your kids’ memories in lights – literally. Check out these battery-operated LED photo fairy lights:

14. Try a 2D/3D Gallery Frame

A nice frame really sets off a piece of art. But sometimes, those art projects are 3D and won’t sit nicely under a glass-front frame. This solution has no glass, so all of those three-dimensional elements can shine on their own! Simply slip the art into the slots and display both portrait and landscape pieces:

15. Frame Their Work on the Fridge

Make that refrigerator art look tidy (and colorful) with magnet frames. They really help tie everything together neatly and keep the edges of your kids’ school papers from fraying or curling.

16. Create a Pretty DIY Photo Display for School Memories

This project from Sustain My Craft Habit would be such a cute way to display favorite school memories from your kids on a desk in your office, in a playroom, or in your child’s bedroom. Check out how to create this pretty photo display :

Feeling inspired? Now, go tackle those school papers and projects. Happy organizing!

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Last update on 2024-09-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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30 DIY Classroom Cubbies for Every Budget and Classroom

Give your kids some space of their own.

Kids tote a lot of stuff to school and use a lot more while they’re there. And they need places to stash it all! If your school or classroom doesn’t have built-in cubbies or lockers, you might be looking for other solutions. You may also want smaller cubbies to house art supplies or books. These DIY classroom cubbies provide options for handy teachers who love to build, busy teachers with no time to spare, and budgets of all sizes. We especially love that you will be able to personalize them with bright colors or even cute pictures of your little learners! You’re sure to find something here to fit your needs.

1. Assemble a tub tower

A stack of big tubs and a handful of zip ties are all you need to create this storage tower. This is easy enough for anyone to assemble—and it’s lightweight, so you can move it around the classroom as needed.

Learn more: Homedit

2. Build a bucket wall

When Haley T. shared these classroom cubbies in a discussion on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE Facebook group , other teachers were instantly intrigued. Colorful buckets mounted to the wall make sturdy storage spaces that will last for years.

3. Tape off some personal space

Sometimes all you really need is a place for kids to plop their stuff. This P.E. teacher came up with a simple solution. “Students bring down so many things to my class: water bottle, sweatshirt, lunch box, papers, folders, belongings from the class before. I decided to give students their own cubby space where they can place their belongings in their own designated number, and at the end of class I can call out specific numbers for students to get their things and line up, or if things are left behind, I can announce what number it is in!”

Learn more: @humans_of_p.e.

4. Plastic drawers make for a personal workstation

Gabrielle at Teaching Special Thinkers shows us how some plastic drawers can be used to help set up an independent workstation. Store tasks to be completed independently inside the drawers and label them accordingly.

Learn more: Teaching Special Thinkers

5. Corral some crates into classroom cubbies

Milk crates are a popular and easy option for student storage. You may be able to get them for free, but if not, you’ll find colorful options at the dollar store that work well too. Many teachers suggest using zip ties to hold them together for added stability. ( Get more ideas for using milk crates in the classroom here. )

6. Separate cubbies for easy access

No one said you need to keep all your cubbies in one place! Try making smaller stacks around the room so kids don’t bunch up around them at busy times. Stacking them by tables and desks makes them even more convenient.

Learn more: Thrasher’s Fifth Grade Rockstars

7. Turn trash bins into stash bins

These inexpensive trash bins from IKEA are sturdy and easy to hang. At only a few dollars apiece, they’re economical enough for an entire collection of classroom cubbies.

Learn more: Renee Freed/Pinterest

8. DIY pen and marker storage

These DIY cubbies are the perfect way to store markers, pens, pencils, and any number of art supplies. Just follow the step-by-step instructions here to make your own for your art room.

Learn more: Reddit

9. Hang up sturdy plastic totes

Plastic totes are usually available in a wide variety of colors and sizes. If you mount them on hooks, kids can easily take them down to root through and find what they’re looking for.

Learn more: Prepping for the Primary Gridiron/Pinterest

10. Fasten plastic baskets to the wall

You can get a whole bunch of colorful plastic baskets for very little money. Mount them to the wall to save space or try attaching them under individual chairs using zip ties .

Learn more: The Kindergarten Smorgasboard

11. See why teachers love Trofast

If you’re looking to buy something that’s pre-built, a trip to IKEA may be in order. The Trofast storage system is a perennial favorite of teachers because the bins come in bright colors and a variety of interchangeable sizes. Since they’re from IKEA, they’re pretty affordable too.

Learn more: WeHeartTeaching/Instagram

12. Use a shoe organizer for much more than shoes

Classroom cubbies can come in the form of unconventional materials like this affordable over-the-door shoe organizer. It is the perfect tool to organize smaller items since its many deep compartments perfectly fit classroom items like glue sticks, markers, Post-it notes, stickers, and more.

Learn more: Truth for Teachers

13. Craft a laundry basket dresser

These ingenious dressers are similar to the IKEA Trofast system, but you can save some dough by DIYing them instead. Get the full instructions at the link below.

Learn more: Ana White

14. Construct homemade wall cubbies

If you’ve got a few tools, you can assemble these cute wall cubbies in no time flat. Make as many as you need, in any color you like.

Learn more: Remodelaholic

15. Use simple plastic bins to separate books by reading level

Classroom cubbies are often used to house reading material, so why not pick up some affordable white tubs like the ones shown here? We especially love the way each tub is labeled by reading level so little readers can find the perfect book for them!

Learn more: Miss Jacob’s Little Learners 

16. Convert tote bags into hanging storage

If you’ve got a row of coat hooks but no classroom cubbies, try hanging inexpensive totes from them instead. Kids can stash whatever they need inside and hang their coats on top.

Learn more: Teaching With Terhune

17. Put together a PVC frame for plastic totes

PVC pipe is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with. (Pro tip: Many home improvement stores will cut the pipe to size for you!) Build a rack to hold individual totes for each student.

Learn more: Formufit

18. Create a cubby space for cell phones

A hanging organizer like this one makes for the perfect way to store cell phones during the day. While every school and every classroom has different rules around phone usage, this organizer allows for every kid to be assigned a number. These classroom cubbies could even be used to take attendance since any cubbies not filled at the start of the day will be marked absent.

Learn more: Pioneer Optimist

19. Create milk crate storage seats

Rather than a row of classroom cubbies on a wall, why not give each student room to store what they need right at their seats? Find a how-to for this popular craft at the link below.

Learn more: Music From B2Z

20. Store everything your students need right under them

This is another cute option for classroom cubbies that double as seating. While not super cheap, these ottomans should last a few years, so investing in a few of them could prove to be a wise investment. We especially love all the vibrant colors they offer!

Buy it: Amazon

21. Stow lightweight items in hanging organizers

Hanging closet organizers are easy to find and don’t take up much space. They’re best for lightweight items rather than books, though.

Learn more: Play to Learn Preschool

22. DIY a set of rolling wooden cubbies

It’s usually less expensive to build your own cubbies instead of buying them. If you’re going that route, try this plan for student cubbies, which has lockable wheels. That way, you can easily move them around your classroom.

Learn more: Instructables Workshop

23. Use the shelves you have

It’s pretty easy to find used bookshelves at thrift shops or online neighborhood sale groups. Make the most of them with baskets or bins for each student, and they’ll make perfectly good cubbies.

Learn more: Fern Smith’s Classroom Ideas

24. Save money with cardboard boxes

It’s not the fanciest option, but cardboard boxes with plastic baskets tucked away inside will certainly do in a pinch. Cover the boxes in wrapping paper or contact paper to dress them up.

Learn more: Forums Enseignants du primaire/Pinterest

25. Alter existing shelves into cubbies

If you have units with adjustable shelves, this is an easy way to make room for coats, backpacks, books, and more. Remove a couple of shelves, add some adhesive hooks, and you’re done!

Learn more: Elle Cherie

26. Upcycle plastic litter containers into classroom cubbies

Got cats? Save your plastic litter containers and stack them for student cubbies. The lids can even serve as “doors.”

Learn more: Susan Basye/Pinterest

27. Make cleanup a snap

There are a couple of great ideas here. To start, color-code every student’s supplies and indicate their “cubby” by a taped piece of paper or felt on the ground or on a shelf. Then, find containers in that color to store that student’s supplies (these can often be found in dollar stores or dollar sections of department stores). Finally, hang up a reminder poster above each spot with photos of how the area should look once cleaned.

28. Really personalize each kid’s cubby

Do you have an old set of classroom cubbies? Maybe someone gave you a hand-me-down set? Dress them up with some paint and, most importantly, some adorable photos of each of your students!

Learn more: K Fundamentals

29. Jazz up some magazine files

These have to be the cutest reading cubbies we have ever seen! Take a photo of each of your students reading a book and then print and adhere it to a simple, cardboard magazine file.

Learn more: Kindergarten Kindergarten

30. Fasten a table and cubby in one

Grab some wooden milk crates, paint them bright colors, and attach a rounded top. These cute tables or desks double as cubbies since book bags, books, and more can be placed inside the base.

Learn more: Katie Martin/Instagram via Pinterest

Come share your ideas for classroom cubbies in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Need more classroom storage ideas check out these teacher-approved options for every kind of classroom..

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Got milk crates? Here's how to use them. Continue Reading

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Kids' homework station ideas

We've put together our top tips for creating a comfortable, functional desk space designed to inspire your kids to study .

Choose the essentials

There are few musts when setting up a desk for a child aged 11 and over - a sturdy work surface, a lamp so eyes don't get tired from reading plus somewhere comfortable to sit. Choose a chair with adjustable height that fits in under the desk so it can be pushed away when not in use.

Use your walls

To free up the work area and keep things organised, you can always use storage on the walls .

Keep it neat

It's hard for anyone to concentrate when things get messy, but if their workstation looks cool, your child will want to keep it tidy. Desktop organisers and a tray are a good idea, which makes it easy for your child to keep things neat.

Let the light in

Why not put the desk in the middle of the room facing the window? Letting in light will give your child an energy boost when they need it.

We love to see our customers get creative with our products. Go for it! But please note that altering or modifying IKEA products so they can no longer be re-sold or used for their original purpose, means the IKEA commercial guarantees and your right to return the products will be lost.

Related categories

Children's desks   Children's desk chairs    Wall & table clocks   Paper & media boxes

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15 Easy Paper Organization Ideas to Keep Your Documents Safe and Sound

Because a lone binder of tax forms and a tray of mail near the door is not going to cut it.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Sorting through your email takes long enough — and that's just one type of document we're confronted with nowadays. Add tax forms, medical info, and even your kid's many (many) drawings into the mix and your office desk — and everywhere else — can get buried quickly. Fortunately, there's an easy way to curb the mess: by making a clearcut paperwork organizing system.

To help you get started, we've found the best paper organization ideas that will keep everything sorted (and your mind sane) when it comes to finally paying the cable bill. These ideas — from desktop letter trays and drawers to color-coded binders and personalized memory boxes — will make sure every piece of paper has a happy place to land. And for even more ways to never lose anything again, check out these easy desk organization ideas .

Desktop Document Letter Tray Organizer

The best-selling file folder rack on Amazon offers five tilted trays for your biggest projects, plus a bottom shelf for other desktop essentials.  

RELATED:   10 Beautiful Cubicle Decor Ideas to Spruce up Your Workspace

Rustic Paper Drawers

If you want something a little more low-profile (with a chic wood frame to boot), these desktop drawers have two spots for labels — perfect for creating an inbox/outbox system.

Container Store Linen Storage Boxes

Fabric boxes help hide the visual clutter that inevitably invades home offices. The Container Store's linen boxes come in multiple sizes, so you have options depending on whether you want to store recipe cards, photos, printed documents, or other paper mementos.  

RELATED:   16 Home Office Ideas That'll Motivate You to Work in Style

Snap-N-Store Letter-Size File Box

Need a box you can fit hanging files in? This steel-handled container comes in multiple sizes for both letter and legal paper. The sides also unsnap and fold flat when you don't need it, and the extra-deep lid leaves room for tabs too. 

Foldable Magazine File Holders

If you know you won't need to reference the materials on the reg, turn to sleek magazine files for a more stylish bookshelf. These ones with leather label slots come in sets of six.

RELATED: 30 Best-Selling Organizing Products on Amazon That Will Change Your Home

Color-Coded Hanging File Folders

Not only is this tried-and-true system pretty to look at, it'll also make hunting through papers way faster. All you have to do is look for the green folders when you want to find your tax info or blue for medical docs.

Cascading Wall Organizer

More than 1,400 Amazon customers have given this vertical file folder a 4.5-star rating. "I purchased this to use as a part of our family's kitchen 'command center,'" one reviewer wrote . "I wanted something that was functional, low-profile, and not an eyesore. This organizer is PERFECT. There are enough pockets for each of our four family members, plus a few more that I've designated for bills and other correspondence."

Galvanized Metal Wall Organizer

If you want something a bit sturdier than plastic, this mail file combines distressed wood and galvanized metal pockets big enough to hold whatever comes its way. 

Glove Box Organizer and Document Case

Keep your registration, insurance, and car maintenance information all in the same place. Five interior pockets stow important auto papers, and an included pen and pad give you a spot to jot down the last time you took the car to the shop. 

Front Seat Car Organizer

And if you're a true road warrior , a clip-on organizer will save work documents from getting crumpled down in the foot well. (The extra cup holder never hurts either.)

Baby Document Organizer

Keep pregnancy reports, pediatrician records, immunizations, and your little one's ID certifications (you don't want to lose that social security card!) safe and together in a plastic briefcase. The folders come with stick-on labels, or you can customize your own. 

School Memory Box

Don't let sentimental items get mixed up on your desk. Dedicate a bin to each of your children and divide it up by school age — preschool, middle school, and even high school.

SHOP HANGING FILE FOLDERS

See more at Simple As That »

Folders for Every Project

Your coworker's baby shower? Your family's holiday gift lists ? Just because you won't need to reference these papers forever doesn't mean they aren't important. Create files for upcoming events so you stay on top of what's currently happening in your life.

SHOP FILE FOLDERS

See more at Simply Fabulous Living »

Labeled Next Steps

Don't just dump papers in your filing system and then forget to look at them for the next month. Smart categories like "read," "file," and "this week" provide clear action steps for your bills and correspondence.

SHOP MOUNTED FILE HOLDERS

See more at The Decor Fix »

Color-Coded Binders

Organizing your papers in a few small binders makes it easier to tote one or two around with you to appointments. Try storing them upright and organized on the counter with the help of a dish-drying rack.

SHOP BINDERS

See more at A Bowl Full of Lemons »

Lauren is a senior editor at Hearst. She was previously the senior editor at WomansDay.com and the home editor at GoodHousekeeping.com and HouseBeautiful.com. Her book club, ramen, and jean jackets are a few of her favorite things.

Caroline is a writer and editor with almost a decade of experience. From 2015 to 2019, she held various editorial positions at Good Housekeeping , including as health editor, covering nutrition, fitness, wellness, and other lifestyle news. She's a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism and dreams of the day Northwestern will go back to the Rose Bowl.  

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20 Office Storage Ideas to Keep Your Home Workspace Pristine

Design by Living With Lolo / Photo by Life Created

The fun part of working from home is having the freedom to add personal decor touches to your workspace . But without proper storage for all of those office supplies, paper files, and tools of your particular trade, your home office decor scheme can be wrecked by clutter. The good news is that there are plenty of options for staying on top of your home office storage while complementing and even enhancing your decor.

From choosing the right furniture to sourcing accessories that will help keep things tidy and organized, check out these clever office storage ideas to help you get your home office workspace in order.

Add Woven Bins

Marie Flanigan Interiors

Marie Flanigan Interiors maximized storage in this small L-shaped home office with built-in cubbies filled with woven storage bins that add warmth and texture while hiding clutter.

Source Vintage Storage

Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

Emily Henderson Design added a tall vintage filing cabinet to this modern home office that adds a note of industrial charm to the space as well as a focal point. You can source industrial storage pieces and shelving online or at flea markets and thrift stores.

Add a Pair of Bookshelves

Home office storage doesn't have to be built-in to be effective. In this home office from Living With Lolo , a pair of freestanding bookshelves is positioned behind the desk. Styled here with decorative objects, it makes an instant zoom background. But the accessories can be swapped for stylish storage boxes, baskets, or file folders as the need arises.

Mix Open and Closed Storage

Marie Flanigan Interiors added a mix of open and closed storage in this long and relatively narrow home office space. Built-in storage around the periphery is complemented by upper cabinetry to keep unsightly supplies and files out of sight. Floating shelves lighten things up and allow for both display space and a place to house stylish storage boxes to keep things accessible.

Maximize Book Storage

Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Erin Kelly

This home office from Leanne Ford Interiors is visible from the living room, making it extra important that there is a adequate storage to keep clutter at bay. A large vintage desk with plenty of storage allows the desk to be cleared at the end of the workday for a start fresh in the morning. Wrap-around built-in bookshelves are both practical and decorative, creating a home library feel.

Build In Storage

House 9 Interiors

House 9 Interiors maximized space in this navy blue home office with built-in floor-to-ceiling storage and an integrated desk by the window. The mix of open and closed storage creates room to hide clutter and display books and decorative objects.

Go Midcentury Modern

Design by Emilie Fournet Interiors / Photo by Kasia Fizser

Decorated with books, plants, and a turntable, this integrated midcentury modern desk and storage unit adds vintage style to this London living room and home office from Emilie Fournet Interiors .

Double the Space

Britt Design Studio

Britt Design Studio created plenty of storage space in this shared home office with a long countertop on one wall separated by identical sets of drawers. An overhead row of cabinetry and open shelving provides equal storage space that creates symmetry and harmony for coworking partners.

Add Asymmetrical Shelving

Kate Marker Interiors

Kate Marker Interiors chose simple white shelving with an asymmetrical design to add interest to this home office that lends it a modern feel.

Keep It Open

In this light and bright home office from Living With Lolo , built-in drawers on the desk hide clutter and file folders in leather and neutral tones are spaced around the open shelving to create stylish open storage that will keep things looking tidy.

Add Bins and Drawers

Blanco Bungalow

Blanco Bungalow added bins and drawers to a freestanding shelf to maximize storage in this home office. A small rolling file cabinet and a corkboard by the desk add additional storage. Keeping everything white helps to retain an airy feel that complements the natural wood desk, plants, and Moroccan-style patterned rug.

Use the Walls

Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Max Kim-bee

Turn the walls of your home office into a place to display everything from inspiration photos to invitations, notices, and other paper items so that they don't end up cluttering your desk or at the bottom of a pile. In this shared office guest room from Leanne Ford Interiors , large framed cork boards and wall-mounted clipboards keep the large communal desk free while simultaneously decorating the walls.

Stick to Black and White

Twelve 15 Design Studio

If you are looking to add storage to your home office without breaking the budget, sticking to a simple color palette will allow you to incorporate a variety of pieces while maintaining a cohesive look that will help reduce visual clutter, like this black-and-white home office from Twelve 15 Design Studio .

Repurpose Antique Furniture

Malcolm Simmons for Emily Henderson Design

In this home office space from Malcolm Simmons for Emily Henderson Design , an antique glass-front cabinet is repurposed as a place to store office supplies. Using vintage, retro or antique pieces adds style and charm to a home office.

Sourcing vintage or secondhand desks, shelving, or storage units that were built for the smaller spaces of the last century is a great trick for outfitting the small spaces of today.

Hide Everything

Kern & Co.

If space and budget is no option, turn your home office into a clutter-free oasis by adding tall wardrobes to the space where you can hide everything, like this light neutral-toned home office haven from Kern & Co.

Add a Library Ladder

Living With Lolo chose a freestanding shelving unit with a built-in library ladder that stylishly maximizes vertical space in this home office.

Morse Design / Heidi Harris and Tara Carter Photography

Shallow open shelving on the upper half of the wall above a row of lower built-in cabinetry creates extra storage space that can be used to offload your desk of everyday home office essentials or simply display decorative objects like the blue-and-white plates in this home office from Morse Design .

Add a Corner Shelf

House 9 Interiors added a corner shelving unit that is painted in the same dark green as the rest of this cozy London home office to store books, while a simple wire basket on the desktop organizes paper clutter and built-in drawers under the built-in desk keep the small space tidy.

Make Storage a Feature

If you're designing a home office from scratch, consider building in a wall of open and closed storage that creates multiple options for housing all of your supplies and files while creating a focal point that anchors the room, like this polished home office from Marie Flanigan Interiors .

Use Every Inch

Design by Martha O'Hara Interiors / Photo by Spacecrafting

Martha O'Hara Interiors created a U-shaped peninsula-style desk that conceals a ton of hidden storage in this cheerful pink home office, adding lower and upper cabinetry and open shelving to lighten things up.

How do you create storage in a small office?

You can add storage to a small home office by choosing a desk with built-in drawers for office supplies and paper files, or a wall-mounted desk with built-in shelving to store books and stylish bins . You can create small office storage by repurposing a credenza or buffet that will provide a mix of closed and open storage.

Maximize wall space by installing a pegboard shelf or hanging open shelving , add a tiered rolling cart, a stylish filing cabinet, or optimize existing shelf space with accessories such as woven baskets or plastic storage bins .

How do you organize office storage?

When organizing storage in your home office, be sure to keep the items you reach for everyday within arm’s length while keeping your desk clear enough so that you can focus on work. Depending on the tools you need or like to have, this can mean organizing a storage drawer with office supplies or choosing a stylish desk organizer . Store lesser used items, paper files, and back-up supplies out of sight in a filing cabinet or storage closet. 

More from The Spruce

Experts share 8 brilliant storage ideas for tiny homes to maximize your living space

These space-boosting solutions are perfect for very compact homes

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1. Choose double-duty furniture

• 2. Make walls work harder

3. Stack things up

4. combine function and flair.

• 5. Use baskets for overflow

6. Go bespoke

• 7. Enlist organizational helpers
• 8. Be flexible

You love living in your tiny house, but it’s a struggle to fit everything in, so what’s the solution? Streamlining your stuff is a good start, but don’t sacrifice too much – chances are you’ve got more storage potential than you think.

Our organizational experts have successfully increased storage in inner-city apartments, cute cabins and cool campervans, working with clients living in all manner of tiny dwellings, and uncovered plenty of space-boosting storage tips along the way.

The first thing they’ll tell you is that when it comes to successful small space storage ideas , creative thinking is key. With limited square footage on offer, everything needs to work that little bit harder – we’re talking walls and doors as well as nooks, crannies and everything in between. There’s no room for wasted space, literally.

8 space-boosting tiny house storage ideas

Employing effective decluttering tips is always worth doing, but even more so when organizing small spaces , where every inch counts. Be sure to do that ahead of employing the storage ideas below to ensure you’re only housing the items you really love, want or need.

Without the luxury of square footage, you’ll need your furniture to work as hard as your home does when it comes to storage. If you’re in the process of buying new, choosing pieces that tick more than one box is the way to go.

Good examples include coffee tables with concealed compartments for remotes and games, upholstered benches with shoe storage inside and ottoman-style beds with space for spare bedding.

If your tiny house is already furnished, professional organizer Lauren Saltman, founder of Living. Simplified suggests looking at what you’ve got and thinking about what you could add to maximize storage without minimizing floor space. ‘When organizing a small bedroom, a small bookcase could double up as a nightstand, or you could introduce pull-out storage bins [ RubberMaid’s underbed storage boxes, available at Amazon , have a durable design and sturdy wheels]’.

This ‘multipurpose’ approach can be taken to more than just furniture. Lauren explains, 'If you’re in the early stages of planning a small kitchen layout , opt for built-in appliances where possible – a microwave or a hot tap, for example. Tools that only have one purpose should also be on your kitchen decluttering checklist . Getting rid of those will free up space in cabinets for smaller appliances, leaving countertops clutter free, too’.

2. Make walls (and doors) work harder

From walls and ceilings to the back of a door, vertical space is your best friend in a tiny home. Shelving is the obvious go-to, but there’s plenty of other wall storage ideas you can use. Which solutions you choose will depend on which room you’re organizing and what you’re storing.

Professional organizer Michelle Urban, founder of The Organized House , says, ‘Over-the-door organizers, ceiling racks, hanging rods and hooks add valuable, streamlined storage to kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms. I love using this EVDBOBO pegboard organizer kit, available at Amazon , when organizing a kid’s room as you can customize it over time as their needs change, for a budget take on bespoke storage’.

It’s also important to bear the look and size of your wall storage in mind – anything too bulky will protrude into the room, making it feel even tinier than it is. Professional organizer Melanie Summers, owner of I Speak Organized , recommends the Umbra Conceal Floating Bookshelf from The Container Store . ‘It’s such a clever piece’, she says. It makes your books look like they’re floating for a sleek, modern touch, plus it saves using valuable floor space’.

If your tiny home is one that moves (motorhome, campervan and narrowboat owners, we’re talking to you), always remember to secure wall-mounted items before you travel. The same goes for items inside cabinets and drawers; Gorilla Grip’s powerGRIP shelf and cabinet liner is an Amazon bestseller for a reason, it keeps items firmly in place, no shifting or rolling.

Over-the-door organizers are great, but if you can't shut your cabinet door you're in trouble – not an issue with this super slim version. Just the right width for cooking sheets, cutting board and small bathroom supplies, it adds valuable storage space. Use the hooks or there's a more permanent wall mount option if you'd prefer.

Using stackable storage boxes is another way of utilizing vertical space; clear designs are perfect for stashing items of any kind (opt for breathable versions if you’re using them to organize clothes and/or shoes), allowing you to see what’s inside at a glance.

These Costway collapsible storage bins, available at Target, are handy for temporary storage in tiny holiday homes; they be folded completely flat when not in use and tucked away until you need them again.

When organizing a small kitchen , it might be more efficient to stack wider items (such as baking trays, chopping boards, and plates) vertically, side by side, using Vive Comb clear acrylic shelf dividers, available at Walmart ; they take up less room and they’re easier to access.

Professional organizer Tina Priestly, owner and CEO of Ready, Set, REFRESH! recommends ‘stacking’ your shelving, too. ‘Mount them all the way up to the ceiling, then store items you don’t use daily up top (think special occasion dishes or holiday decorations) to give out-of-reach space a purpose. Keep frequently-used items lower down for easy access’.

Without the luxury of hidden storage aplenty, you’ll need to get a little creative with how you’re displaying things if you want your home to stay stylish.

Anything you have out should contribute to the overall aesthetic of the room, as well as being functional. Get toilet rolls out of their plastic wrap and into pretty baskets, decant washing liquids into stylish bottles and pour bulk-bought pantry staples into airtight glass jars.

‘Keep sink spaces clear by mount a shelf nearby and lining with neatly-presented essentials and use an over-the-sink drying rack. For those items too unsightly to be on show, mount an Umbra Hide & Sink Under Sink Caddy from The Container Store to the back of a cabinet door to maximize hidden storage opportunities’, says Lauren.

These preprinted jar labels add a sleek and stylish look to well-organized kitchen and pantry shelves. The set includes 192 pantry labels, 18 oil and vinegar labels, 125 spice jars labels, 23 blank labels of 3 different sizes, and 45 expiry labels. Made from vinyl, they're durable and waterproof and don't leave sticky residue when removed so you can update jars easily.

5. Use baskets as overflow storage

Whether it’s tiny or not, keeping on top of everyday clutter is an easy way to make your home look more organized . Setting up ‘drop zones’ keeps floors clear and prevents prime storage spaces from overfilling.

'These rainbow seagrass storage baskets from The Container Store are both practical and pretty. They add a lovely natural texture while keeping things tidy’, says Melanie. Position them in clutter hotspots, such as in entryways, playrooms and living rooms, or assign a basket to each household member to keep items neatly contained.

We also recommend the Bay Isle Home™ wicker basket, available from Wayfair as it lies flat against the wall, making it a great option in tiny homes, particularly those with wheels – it won’t swing about when you’re on the move.

If you’ve got the budget for it, all our experts recommend commissioning bespoke joinery in a tiny home. ‘Custom-made shelving, cabinets and drawers all blend seamlessly into nooks and crannies, providing ample storage without making the room feel cluttered’, says Michelle.

Tina agrees, and takes it one step further, suggesting you transform an entire area of your home into more usable space. ' Under stairs ideas can be a goldmine for hidden storage. For example, consider commissioning custom-built drawers and pull-out shelving to store shoes, cleaning supplies , or seasonal items like winter coats’.

Why stop there? Home office or playroom ideas are merely a dream for most tiny home owners, but with a bit of clever thinking thinking (and some advice from your local carpenter) a large closet could be transformed into either – simply shut the door at the end of the day and you’d never know it was there.

Punteha van Terheyden , head of solved at Homes & Gardens , says, 'We bought a newly built home with a tiny footprint of just over 900 square feet. It lacked storage entirely so we had custom built floor to ceiling closets made in the primary bedroom so every inch of the allocated wall could be used, exactly as we needed it, right up to the awkward light switch. I looked around for a while until I found an amazing, talented carpenter local to me and the price was extremely competitive. It's the best money we've spent since moving in.'

If you haven’t got the budget for a professional build (or you’re living in a rental), don’t panic – there’s shop-bought solutions you can use that create a similarly sleek effect. Michelle recommends the BESTÅ Storage range at Ikea . 'It includes wall-mounted and floor-standing options with a choice of fronts, so it really is the next best thing in my opinion – all pieces are sold individually, so you can pick to fit your budget, space and storage needs’.

7. Enlist organizational helpers to max out existing space

When space is tight, the last thing you want to be doing is bringing in more storage, so enlist the help of a few home organizers to make the cabinets, shelving and drawers you’ve already got work a little bit harder.

'A Franklin corner shelf riser from The Container Store combined with shelf dividers, pull-out storage and carousels can pretty much double your storage capacity, whilst keeping everything within easy reach, handy when organizing a small kitchen without a pantry’ , says Meaghan.

When it comes to organizing drawers , we’d recommend opting for adjustable dividers, or you could commission niche inlays to store niche items like coffee pods and herbs and spices, or when organizing jewelry, for example.

Always measure the space you’ve got before investing in an organizer of any kind, so you’re not left with dead space.

Store all sorts in these neatly-sized carousels, ideal on high shelves and in tricky corners. Made from easy-clean plastic, the smooth rotation makes for quick and easy access and a high rim stops items falling off. Suitable for kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms, you'll easily find use for all four.

8. Be flexible with where you store things

Prioritizing storage space for items essential to the room’s purpose is sensible, but if you’re struggling to fit everything in, you’ll need to be more flexible with where you store things in order to remain organized.

Grouping like-items together into baskets and containers means they can be stored anywhere in your tiny home, then easily moved around as you need. To make things easier, opt for lightweight designs with handles, such as the DECOMOMO Storage Bins, available at Amazon .

According to Meaghan, portable storage options are also worth considering. ‘This neatly-sized Origami rolling cart from The Container Store creates extra counter space in a small kitchen and has storage space underneath for organizing pots and pans ', she says.

‘Those narrow gaps between appliances? The perfect place for this IFANNY slim rolling cart, available at Amazon , to sit. Use the four tiers to store spices, tins and dried foods so they’re close to hand when cooking, then simply slide it away when you need the floor space. You could even store it in another room altogether, depending on your small kitchen layout ’.

Getting your storage ideas spot on means you can fit a lot into your tiny home, but it’s well worth encouraging minimalism at home to keep clutter from building.

Check out the decluttering strategies minimalists swear by ; they’re surprisingly easy to stick to, and you – and your tiny home – will be much happier for it.

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For 10 years, Tara King worked as a Content Editor in the magazine industry, before leaving to become freelance, covering interior design, wellbeing, craft and homemaking. As well as writing for Ideal Home, Style at Home, Country Homes & Interiors, Tara’s keen eye for styling combined with a passion for creating a happy – and functional – family home has led to a series of organization and cleaning features for H&G. 

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