Counter Intelligence

Builders and designers Brendan and Jillian Bader (@modern_nest) created this spot for the kids of a former teacher — no pressure! “The desk is in a living space that’s mostly white, so we used a butcher block countertop to warm it up,” says Jillian. Brass sconces from Schoolhouse and plush pink West Elm chairs are sophisticated enough that grown-ups love them, too.

Schoolhouse Rocks

Painter’s tape and a can of green chalkboard paint were all designer Xin Lu (@athomewithxin) needed to make this fun backdrop. The wall designates this corner of the room as a study zone — and also encourages her daughter, Mia, to get creative. A Wayfair desk and swivel chair from Target complete the setup.

Bright Idea

“My children spread their school stuff all over the kitchen,” says blogger Jordan Maconachy (@jordan.and.co). To corral the mess, she installed desks in a small room near her pantry. Spotted wallpaper from Katie Kime, funky Sazerac Stitches sconces and rainbow-bright accessories keep everyone smiling, even during test prep.