Blog: Everything Has Its Place: Get Ready for School, Work, and More in Style

Ask just about any family and they’ll tell you: the most challenging parts of the day are on the margins. Mornings are often hectic with rushed breakfasts and the looming pressure of a packed schedule. Evenings might be looser, but it’s tough to think about staying organized when it’s time to unwind.

As a designer, the difficulty of the average family’s routine spells opportunity – that’s right! And as another school year approaches, what better time to consider how you can help improve homeowners’ lives with fantastic, functional design.

Designated Design for the Daily Routine

Designing for the needs of a working family with school-age children requires a bit of invention. You know you have the ability and tools to reduce clutter, improve organization, and even encourage positive traffic flow, but what about the space? How much is available? Where is it? And what design elements can you include to satisfy the whole family?

Before you take on this type of project, be sure to ask your client how their day unfolds so you can target a design that truly meets their needs.

The Coat Closet Has Evolved

With so many selections, Medallion makes it easy for you to be a hero for your homeowners. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

The Drop Zone – The coat closet won’t cut it, and your clients need more than a mudroom. Enter “The Drop Zone.” Filled with accessible cubbies and lockers, crafty hinges and ample hooks, this space offers breezy traffic flow and effortless storage for backpacks, shoes, athletic equipment, and more.

(Gold) Mission Flat Panel in Greystone on quartersawn oak

Spacious Seating – Getting out the door can be a chore; getting back in might require a minute. Incorporating bench seating in this staging area makes transitions easier when putting on shoes or boots in the morning, or just taking a load off after a long day.

(Gold) Middleton Flat Panel in French Roast on knotty alder

Kitchen Relief – Is your customers’ mail piling up on the breakfast bar, or do they work remote from the kitchen table? A built-in desk can add functionality, maximize square footage, and help put technology, paperwork, and supplies in their proper place.

(Silverline) Fletcher in Divinity on maple

Keep in mind, while these types of assignments call primarily for functionality, it doesn’t have to be bland. Feel free to work in stimulating finishes and design flourishes like shiplap, corbels, and more to throw a little extra pizazz into the daily grind.