Tips for creating the most inspiring homework stations for kids

Back to school means getting back into a homework routine, and there's no better way to bring excitement to this dreaded nightly task than setting up a fun space to inspire. A designated homework station will help focus young minds and keep everything organized and in reach. To get you, designer parent, into the decorating spirit, we've rounded up some ideas for you on Instagram, along with a shopping list to help you budget and plan. So choose the look your kids (or you!) most like below, and create a welcoming and productive nook the kids will want to spend time in, really.

Junior scholars

Build an organized area for junior scholars with everything they need in reach. Hang containers on a rod to free up desk space and use clipboards to display and rotate art as fast as it comes in! Dry erase boards are a must for tracking deadlines and teaching valuable life lessons in project management as well.

GET THE LOOK: Hanging storage container, $0.99 at Ikea; Wall rail, $2.99 at Ikea; Wooden storage boxes, $29.95 at CB2; Clipboard, $6.53 at Staples; Wooden abacus, $19.99 at Hudson's Bay; Whiteboard, $34.99 at Ikea; Gallery frame, $14.99 at Ikea

Country chic

Don't be afraid to take the kids' homework station out of the bedroom and away from distractions. Set it up in a wide hallway or a lesser-used area of the house. Wicker baskets and muted colours create soft and simple lines that won't scream "kids." Add a few eye-catching objects like a playful bookend for a memorable corner where things will get done!

GET THE LOOK: Candleholder, $36.00 at Urban Barn; Bicycle bookend, $62.99 at Wayfair; Globe, $79.50 at Indigo; Wicker storage baskets, $36.95 at Crate and Barrel.

Whimsical

Encourage creativity with a whimsical homework station that speaks to the kid in all of us. Framed inspirational quotes provide uplifting reminders to help get the projects done, while a minimalist desk will help contain the clutter they bring. Bring in round vase to add an earthy element to the look, and fill it with fresh-cut flowers to brighten the mood of your disgruntled student.

GET THE LOOK: Inspirational quotes art, $10.70 at Zazzle; Ceramic pineapple, $19.99 at Bouclair; Computer desk, $299 at Staples; Vase, $14.99 at Anthropologie.

Modern kid

Minimize distractions with a sleek and modern look that will grow as your child does. From threenager to teenager, soft wood and white colours give them a clean slate to brainstorm fresh ideas. Add a few pops of colour for interest and you're set.

GET THE LOOK: Chair, $142.99 at All Modern; Tripod desk lamp, $117.50 at One Forty Three; Rug, $199 at Crate and Barrel.

Tween dream

Who wouldn't want to tuck into this welcoming corner and get to work? A pink palette can be easily swapped out for another favourite colour, but the general idea is to keep things magical. Fairy lights add a warm glow to work by and a bold clock tracks productive hours in a stylish way. Configure a pegboard as you like and upcycle objects you already have in the house to display.

GET THE LOOK: String lights, $14.99 at Canadian Tire; Wooden pegboard, $76.61 at Land of Nod; Clock, $69 at Clocksicle; Unicorn lamp, $36.26 at Target.