The end of summer means back to school for the school age children in our lives, marking the beginning of busy sports schedules, homework and school projects. Finding a place where the kids can study without being disturbed can be a challenge in itself, but a good desk will help homework become a task to look forward to. Here are a few simple ideas to help your young scholar on their way.

Reclaimed wood
The use of reclaimed wood and vintage crates combine well to make a one-off desk. Old bins and wooden crates can find new life as functioning storage.

Add colour and pattern
Give an old desk or breakfast table a new lease of life with a few coats of glossy colour. If your child has the luxury of an entire room to themselves, consider using a larger table, as this will allow plenty of room to spread out and will keep the walls free for storage and seating. Let your young person go crazy with whatever decoration they fancy. Try a bit of decoupage – add pictures from comics, glossy magazines, newspapers or any of the great wallpapers currently available.

Chalk-painted
Chalk paint applied to an old table or desk will become a fun, functional and attractive piece of furniture. Used for writing notes and messages, this desk will soon become a favourite for any child or teenager.

Space saving solutions
A piece of wood fitted to the wall with hinges that easily flips down to become a desk and clips back against the wall when not in use is a great space saving idea. A bed and desk solution is a popular and sensible choice, as the desk can easily be rolled away back under the bed when not in use. If you have an awkward corner to fill, consider having a desktop custom cut to fit the space. A corner can make a cosy spot for a desk.

Storage bin
Sturdy metal or plastic storage bins fit neatly under any desk. This choice would work perfectly in a child’s room. Open bins beneath a desk are easier to access than closed drawers – just right for keeping stationery, paper and files close at hand.