Back and Forth
I have gone back and forth (and back again) about having a school room, an office, and a playroom in one specific space in our home. When we had a room dedicated to homeschooling we didn’t use it as often as I had hoped. Yet, when we repurposed it as an office (and later a playroom) I missed having an area where the girls and I could comfortably work together. Having their things spilled out all over our dining room table and living room floor was stressing me out.
Now, more and more parents can relate to my situation. As many are working from home while their children are homeschooled or participating in virtual schooling. Where to do this work is now the question on the forefront of everyone’s mind. So what is a parent to do?
Inspiration strikes
I was online researching something or other when I stumbled upon an idea. It was quite by accident but I was grateful nonetheless. Picture after picture showed people repurposing spaces in their homes to meet their real, everyday needs. An office, or at least a desk with some shelving were being placed in closets. Ok, I don’t know if that sounds genious or weird to you, but it was the answer I didn’t know I was looking for. I can only imagine the light bulb that lit up over me at that very moment.
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/a25866/repurposed-closet-makeovers/
Little Space, Big Idea
Whether it was a wall closet with sliding doors or a walk-in, people are making it work. And that’s when I realized that the room that we have made, and remade again, may still hold the key. In this ever changing space we had a walk-in closet. And with a little vision and a lot of sweat we could have our own office space.
Thank goodness I married a Renaissance man. Seriously, I can be creative at times and I’m constantly envisioning new things. But he has the talent to make those ideas a reality. Turning my thoughts into measurements, we were ready to dive into a new home project.
https://www.ladydspeaks.com/first-years/
It takes some time
For several days we cleaned out that space of old curriculum, art supplies, books, and more random junk then I care to admit. Then we began measuring, planning, and researching. What type of wood should we use, for instance, or how much will it cost? But once those decisions were finalized, and a number of trips were made to the lumber yard, the real fun began. When all was said and done my husband had created a lovely (and functional) space. Hidden away, yet completely accessible, this closet was now a mini work space.
Our children’s books were now displayed on sturdy wooden shelves. And the white cabinets, which are being used as the desks base, will be home to their school curriculum. But the pièce de résistance is the desk. Taller than your standard desk height, because more standing equals less sitting time. And I heard that burns more calories, so yay to that. But I digress…The beautiful L shaped butcher block top provides plenty of space for our printer, my laptop and my girls art buckets.
Our Little Corner
I can only imagine all the articles, podcasts, and stories I’ll create in this space. A place that once just stored junk in no particular order is now reborn. And bonus, I won’t be the only one to enjoy this. I can see our girls perusing through their library wondering which story to pick. Or even considering it as a quiet spot for studying.
If you’re short on space or simply don’t want to take up a whole room for an office/school room, then this is a great alternative. I have peace of mind knowing their school year is organized and accessible because of this repurposed closet. And that I too can use this little corner closet as my very own walk-in office.
