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Children grow up, become more mature and serious every day. And when it’s time to go to school, it is necessary to remodel the nursery for the future first-grader.
What is the most important thing in the room of a child who has to do homework every day? That's right, a well-equipped work area. In order for it to be in the right place, and also with good lighting, we need to think about its location. The most advantageous option, according to experts, is to locate the child’s work area near the window. How to properly design a work area by the window for a schoolchild, and what materials should the tabletop be made of? We will talk about this in our article!
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Creating a workspace in the living room
- home
- Balcony
- Creating a workspace in the living room
This means it’s time to think about where in the apartment you can mark out the work area.
Most often, the living room is the choice for arranging a workplace.
But, it is advisable to think through everything carefully if you want your interior to continue to please you and the work area to be quite functional. Not everyone can combine several functions in one room. Every little thing and detail should be taken into account.
Having decided to combine the living room and the office, first you must think about where and how best to place the workplace.
There are several options that will help you properly arrange your workspace:
The best place for a work area is by the window.
Especially if the living room is narrow or very small, it will be difficult for you to find something more suitable for arranging a work area.
You have an advantage if you have a niche in your living room. It is easiest to arrange and delimit it from the rest of the space, and this can help in creating a workplace.
Owners of non-standard living rooms can create a practical and secluded work area, using, for example, narrow or other niches.
But you can create niches yourself, for example, using furniture.
Niches make a good place for storage, but they also have their drawbacks.
While working, your gaze may be buried in a blank wall, and the lack of light will lead to unplanned expenses associated with the purchase of additional lighting sources.
Often, corner space is not used, since arranging corners requires non-standard forms of furniture and rarely any interior items are placed there.
However, for placing a compact desk, a corner of the living room may be a better option.
The only negative may be poor lighting due to a lack of natural light, but this can be easily corrected with the help of a few lamps.
They can be mounted both in the ceiling and in the walls around the perimeter.
Step-by-step installation of a tabletop-window sill with your own hands
To replace an ordinary window sill with a tabletop, it is not necessary to contact a specialized company. With minimal experience, the entire process will take a couple of hours.
To do this, it is enough to stock up on the necessary materials and tools. It is important to take measurements in advance and draw up an accurate drawing.
An example of making a table top-window sill with your own hands is based on the use of MDF or laminated chipboard sheets.
Preparation
Preparatory work before installing the tabletop-window sill involves taking measurements. To do this, measure the base of the window, from which the length of the structure will be calculated. The height of the future tabletop is determined accordingly.
Upon completion of measurements, the required amount of material is purchased. In most cases, one sheet of MDF or chipboard with a thickness of 12 mm is sufficient.
Additionally prepare:
- masking tape, packaging tape;
- polyurethane foam;
- yardstick;
- square, building level;
- corners;
- jigsaw;
- screwdriver, self-tapping screws.
Main works
Once everything is prepared, you can begin the main work.
- Removing the old window sill. In some cases, a complete window replacement may be necessary.
- Preparing the base of the tabletop. According to the drawing, markings are carried out on an MDF (chipboard) sheet, then trimmed along the applied contour. It is advisable to treat the sections with sandpaper and then with silicone.
- If the design provides for legs, they are attached before installing the base.
- Next, cover the bottom surface with packing tape.
- The bases are installed, the existing cracks are filled, the holes are filled with polyurethane foam. Before this, the evenness of the surface is checked using a building level.
- Fix the base to the wall from the bottom side with corners. Seams and joints with the wall are filled with silicone.
If the owner has chosen a stone, it is important to correctly measure the future countertop. The material comes to the buyer in finished processed form according to the specified dimensions.
How to arrange and decorate a desk in a children's room: photo examples in the interior
As mentioned above, installing a desk by the window in a child’s room is a good idea, since in this way you can make more efficient use of the free space and improve the illumination of the work area for the student. The design can be made more functional if it is equipped with side cabinets, cabinets or an extension attached to the wall. Let's consider design options for desks by the window in a children's room for a boy, a girl and two children.
Desk or computer corner table for the children's room near the window
The corner design of the table is very comfortable and functional. In addition to the tabletop, such models are equipped with cabinets, shelves and add-ons. Despite the fact that corner tables installed under the window in a children's room are well lit, you will also need a table lamp on hinges. However, although this design is convenient, experts do not recommend using it for working at a computer and preparing homework for schoolchildren under 14 years of age. This is due to the fact that a desktop-mounted monitor and small office equipment limit the work space. There may also be a risk of constant distraction from homework.
How to set up a desk for multiple users?
When furnishing tables for many users, it is worth paying attention not only to their location in relation to the light and door, but also to interpersonal relationships. It is an unfortunate situation when people are forced to sit in the back. On the other hand, if they are sitting face to face, the distance should be at least 120 cm.
Placing a table directly next to a window has its advantages. You can take a break from your work to look outside. If there is a lot of greenery in the yard, then the landscape looks simply irresistible.
Design advantages
The advantages of tables built into the windowsill are obvious. Many objects can be placed on their surface, so such models fit organically into the design of a children's room and replace a worktop in the kitchen. Contrary to popular belief, the designs do not help preserve free space; the savings will be no more than 50 cm. The main advantage of the products will be the rationalization of living space.
Another important advantage is full lighting. Furniture located under or next to a window is exposed to sunlight. Thanks to this feature, there is no need to use local lamps, which will help reduce eye strain. This is especially true for a children's room.
The reasons for the popularity of tables combined with a window sill are the ease of production and installation. Stylish tabletops can be purchased ready-made, ordered from a craftsman, made with your own hands, or remade from old written models. Regardless of the chosen option, the design will not require large financial costs.
Not everyone is in a hurry to install a universal window-sill table, since it covers the radiators. It will not be possible to cover the windows with long curtains; only shortened or roller models and blinds will do.
Rationalization of living space
Full lighting
Easy to manufacture and install
Design tips
Before purchasing a table for a child’s room or ordering it from a craftsman, you need to take into account the child’s personal preferences and choose the right color scheme for both the table top and the facades. An incorrectly selected design can have a negative impact on the psyche and even create a dislike for learning. In addition, the table should harmonize well with the overall style of the room.
The configuration of the table depends on the age of the child and the required functionality. For example, for kids there should be shelves and convenient drawers for toys. Children aged 6 to 10 already have their own computer, so you need to prepare everything for this. Teenagers need a place to store their personal belongings.
As for the location, it is better to place the table under the window, and not across the windowsill. The presence of a blank wall will block positive energy and can even cause depression. If it still doesn’t work out any other way, it is recommended to hang a map of the world, the starry sky, posters, photographs, motivational images or a planning board on the wall.
Desk for two children
In our country, one room is often shared by two or even three children, each of whom needs their own workspace. In this case, each child should have his own corner where he can store textbooks, do homework, or just draw. If children have shared drawers, conflicts cannot be avoided, but two separate cabinets or shelves will solve this problem.
When organizing such places, the ideal solution would be to place the schoolchildren’s study area near the window. Modern furniture manufacturers offer a lot of solutions that allow you to install not only a table, but also cabinets for it. The area above the workspace is reserved for lamps and hanging shelves.
In this pencil-shaped room there are three workplaces at once: two near the window and one near the wall. Each of the children has their own corner.
Design ideas for girls
Girlish colors are very diverse: the whole pastel range, as well as pink, red, white, metallic and many others. When choosing colors, it is worth remembering that the nursery environment should set the mood for work and not distract from the educational process. Therefore, it is worth abandoning the dominance of too bright colors, giving preference to subdued shades. In this case, the interior can be easily changed with the help of new bright accessories.
Bright and very cozy
Design ideas for boys
Future men try to imitate their older relatives and choose “masculine” colors: blue, woody shades, white, silver, green, purple, black. But it would be a mistake to leave the nursery decor without truly bright colors. They can be used for individual elements of the work area by the window - chairs, curtains, floor decoration, walls, etc.
Workplace for a future athlete
It’s good when there is something in the interior that reminds you of the child’s main hobby.
Features of the selected zoning
Natural light plays a significant role in the development of visual perception of the surrounding world. Therefore, when choosing a nursery design with a table by the window, adults are taking a responsible step. You can organize a work group along the wall. Then it will be possible to place shelves above the table for stationery and books.
But there will be little light coming from the window here; additional artificial lighting will have to be organized. It quickly tires the eyes, the child gets tired and loses interest in activities, and the energy potential drops. Vision clarity deteriorates over time and health is lost.
If the table is turned towards the window, the portion of daylight will be maximum. It has a beneficial effect on the schoolchild’s nervous system, stimulates the production of vitamin D, and without it, as is known, calcium is not absorbed. The benefits of daylight are undeniable, so a children's room with a table by the window is considered the most effective in terms of maintaining health and ensuring a fruitful learning process.
Modern window blocks retain heat well. They prevent drafts. Many of them have locking fittings, so it is completely safe to leave children in the room and not be afraid of them falling out from a high floor.
If the height allows, you can remove the window sill and build in a tabletop instead, thereby increasing the working surface area. Placing the table near the window frees up more space for games and relaxation. Which is very important for small rooms.
There are points that need to be taken into account when choosing this zoning option:
- when the windows face the sunny side, there is an excess of sunlight during the day; blinds help regulate its intensity;
- it is important to take into account the presence of a battery, you cannot block it (it will be cold in winter), during the heating period it can be very hot, to make the child comfortable, you need to hang a perforated screen on it, then the battery will not interfere with activities;
- If you want to save money, you can order a tabletop with metal legs and two flat wooden supports along the edges; this design will not interfere with cleaning, and will allow one child to choose which side is best to sit on (two schoolchildren will be able to sit comfortably and not disturb each other) .
A room for two should be built in a strictly symmetrical order; both students should have the same space, the same number of shelves and lighting fixtures.
Decorating the work area by the window
A schoolchild's desk, no matter how large it may be, will eventually become a container for many things. Therefore, it is necessary to equip the work area with storage systems. These can be various boxes, tubes, shelves, small drawers specially selected to match the design of the entire room.
Additional shelves and cabinets will help organize space for storing toys and school supplies
Magnetic, marker or cork boards are not only a decorative element, but the most useful device. They also carefully select curtains, the color of the table and chair, and a soft rug under their feet.
When decorating a work area, you first need to properly organize the light. A table lamp and various LED lamps can also be elements of the overall room design.
Built into furniture
Such furniture is usually made to order. Perhaps the only drawback is the high price. Otherwise, this option will preserve the space of a child’s room in a small apartment or Khrushchev-era building. For example, a built-in table can fit in a closet, replacing one of the sections, or connect two cabinets in the corners of the room with a table top. Convert the remaining shelves into additional storage space for children's items.
Window sill with retractable table top
For a small child's room, installing a tabletop with a retractable surface is an excellent solution. Its lower part easily rolls under the window sill, and there is more space in the room.
And when a child needs to study, he doesn’t have to think about where to place his books and notebooks. It will be enough to simply pull out the shelf.
Table-window sill
An interesting design approach - the tabletop near the window in the children's room can be used instead of a windowsill, simultaneously performing the function of a working surface. Such solutions require individual production - the tabletop must be ordered based on the size and configuration of the battery, window dimensions, distance to other furniture.
This is important: instead of a solid screen, install special protective partitions with grooves over the battery.
Located from wall to wall, a window sill-tabletop will help organize several work stations, significantly saving space. The width of the table top is selected so that it is convenient for the student to write, and the free space directly under the lid can be used for drawers. The dimensions of the table should allow you to open the window for ventilation without any problems.
The tabletop protrudes beyond the base - the child can position his feet comfortably. Another practical option is to get rid of the base by pulling out the countertop.
With wardrobe
For a small room it is appropriate to mix and match furniture. A cabinet is a great item to incorporate a child’s desk into.
What does it look like? This is a large, full-fledged closet with various compartments: a large closed one for clothes, open shelves for books and toys. And as one of the compartments there will be a workspace: a built-in small table with empty space below (for comfortable sitting). It's very comfortable and looks original!
This cabinet-table can be made to order. This is an excellent option, since you can choose the height of the table to suit the height and individual characteristics of the child, as well as take into account the dimensions of the room and the specific place where the structure will stand. Such a cabinet can also be a corner one.
Table shape
The desk is often made to order.
In this case, there are several types of countertops to choose from:
- Full width table by the window in the children's room. This technology is convenient as it offers a wide area for learning, games, and reading. Such countertops allow you to place everything you need on one plane. The solid model is often complemented by wall-mounted drawers and cabinets. This makes it even more convenient to take office supplies.
- Corner tabletop. Often used in rooms where there is not enough space to install large tables. Children who are actively involved in hobbies will especially like it. It is convenient for drawing, embroidering, and wood carving. Everything you need for fun work is at hand.
- Oval type. Suitable for large apartments where there is no need to save space. There is an oval depression in the middle of this table, which is also convenient for studying. A larger area allows you to fit more items within close reach.
Types of designs: which one to choose for the interior
The simplest solutions are a side table or a tabletop built into the window sill. In addition, in a small room you can make a table that can be easily removed for a while. For example, reclining or retractable.
Window sill with retractable table top
This design is good where a table is needed only sometimes, but is in the way the rest of the time. For example, children require maximum space for gymnastics. After completing their homework, they can slide the tabletop back and play sports.
Retractable window sill table
Window sill with folding table
A solution with a similar meaning is much simpler to implement technically. The folding table can be attached to the window sill on regular hinges, which will cost a very modest amount. You can choose any material for the tabletop: chipboard, wood, glass, metal, etc.
Folding desk
A table for a schoolchild by the window: how to choose a tabletop
When choosing a tabletop, you need to measure the student’s height, determine the height of the table and chair, and also determine the most convenient location.
There must be a recess for feet in the working area
To avoid poor posture and discomfort, you need to adhere to generally accepted standards for height: in high school, height reaches 160-175 cm. The table should have a height of 60-70 cm. In elementary and middle grades, with a height of 130-140 cm, the height of the table is 52-52 cm. 58 cm.
A desk near a wall-length window can have any width, but the height is determined individually for each student.
Dark wood countertop - a practical option
A varnished white surface is not suitable for schoolchildren who paint
A light wood tabletop will fit well into any interior
Metal table top
This tabletop is suitable for interiors in high-tech, loft, and minimalist styles. This is a non-standard design solution, which also has a right to exist. The metal will serve for a long time, it will not deform or crack. But this material cools quickly, so it is not always comfortable to work at the table - you need a rubber mat or a wooden stand.
The tabletop and racks should be made of lightweight metal so as not to create additional load on the wall. It can be coated with acrylic paint of a contrasting color, and then an original art object will appear in the nursery.
Tree
A table for a children's room along the window made of solid pine, birch, beech or oak is not only beautiful, but also extremely environmentally friendly. Such furniture is immediately installed for an adult, and chairs or armchairs that can be adjusted in height are purchased for the table.
Monumental and very cozy
Natural wood is a heavy and durable material. This is another argument in favor of buying a wooden table, because it is not afraid of any children's pranks.
Glass
The material is used only for countertops, and there are special requirements for it. It is recommended to buy such a table for a child over 10 years old who already understands that the glass should not be hit with heavy objects. The following types of glass are selected:
- triplex with high pressure treatment for maximum strength;
- kiln fired and powder coated;
- with polymer coating.
Other materials may also be used. The wood is very durable and has a noble appearance, but it is sensitive to various factors and is not cheap. Plastic is fragile, short-lived and can be toxic, so this table is not worth buying. As for budget veneer, it is extremely sensitive to improper care and exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
PVC
The most budget-friendly foundation option. Despite this, structures made of hard and durable plastic can easily withstand heavy loads and create a single composition with the slopes of a plastic window.
The photo shows a children's room with a white window-sill table located in the bay window.
MDF
Any furniture made from MDF is quite in demand, because during production a balance of price and quality is maintained. It has a low wear threshold and high aesthetic qualities.
The design of MDF furniture can be very different: from a laconic model with smooth surfaces to a massive table reminiscent of a product made of natural wood.
There are also other advantages:
- environmental friendliness;
- hydrophobicity, the table will not be damaged by spilled water;
- large selection of colors;
- ease of care;
- service life is about 10 years.
Compact wall table made of MDF in a little boy's room
Less disadvantages:
- instability to fire and increased heat, damaged by heating devices;
- does not tolerate steam condensate well;
- the density level is average, subject to mechanical damage, it is impossible to reinstall the fittings.
Despite all the existing shortcomings, MDF countertops have high performance indicators, subject to all manufacturing technology standards.
Optimal sizes
The shape of the table, its size, as well as its design directly affects the health of the student. When doing homework, a child is forced to stay in one position for a long time. If it is uncomfortable, the load on the neck, back, legs will be distributed unevenly, posture problems will appear, and vision will decrease.
Therefore, when buying a table, it is important to focus on the fit and optimal height. It is not difficult to determine it if you keep the following rules in mind:
- The level of the worktop should be exactly along the line of the solar plexus of the child sitting at the desk.
- When a child lowers his hand while sitting at a work table, his elbow should be 5 cm below the table plane.
- The distance between the bottom edge of the table and the knees of a sitting child should be at least 10 cm.
- The minimum length of the table top for one child is one meter: spread elbows must completely fit on the work surface.
- The width should allow you to place several items at once: notebooks, books, stationery. For first-graders, you can purchase a narrow table, 60 cm wide; for older children, you should not choose a model that is narrower than 80 cm.
- When a computer is installed on a table, the distance between its monitor and the student’s eyes should be 40 cm.
Recommendations for choosing colors
Basic tips for choosing a tint palette:
- The window sill table is part of the overall interior composition, so its color scheme should be selected taking into account the shades of large objects in the room, such as a kitchen set, wardrobe, bed or other furniture.
- Also, quite often the shade of the table is matched to the color of the walls or various textiles, such as curtains or carpet.
- In a room with neutral tones, you can create an accent and choose a brighter and more contrasting countertop.
- The most win-win solution would be a tabletop in a monochromatic combination with a window frame.
The photo shows a window sill turning into a gray table in the interior of an attic in the country.
Design and shape
When creating an attractive interior, the appearance of the window sill, which turns into the work surface, is of great importance. First of all, you need to pay attention to the shape. Traditionally, products have a universal rectangular design that looks organic in almost any style. The models are convenient to use if the tabletop is small. If the corner desk is quite wide, it is necessary to round the corners to eliminate the risk of injury.
A radius window sill in a children's room is a stylish option. Solid sheets of material are used or folding transforming structures are created. The narrow shape of the tables is relevant for classic interiors, as well as country, colonial and Provencal styles.
If the decor of the room gravitates towards the traditional direction, the best solution would be the tone of natural wood. Bleached ash, oak, pine, and dark species are suitable. To create a romantic atmosphere, muted cream, milky, and lavender tones are used.
Computer tables for loft and high-tech styles are made in black with a glossy sheen. Bizarre shapes are welcome: wavy lines, rounded edges. Minimalism will organically combine brown with gray and olive shades. Products made from natural stone are suitable and will make the room unique and modern.
High tech
Classic
Loft
Minimalism
Aligning the table with the window
Placing your desk facing a window is a convenient solution if you like to view the outdoors while working. However, even indirect sunlight can affect you, increasing fatigue while working. It's good to look into the distance from time to time.
Many experts advise that the table should be at right angles to the window. This, however, will not completely protect you from intense daylight, especially if the sun's rays enter the room directly through the glass. Then the only solution will be to cover the window, for example with blinds, which will reflect the sharp rays, but still let in some light. We recommend models of blinds and curtains that are adjustable both at the top and bottom, allowing them to cover only that part of the window through which the greatest amount of light passes at a given time.
An additional advantage of the window is the ability to ventilate the room. Bringing fresh air into the room helps you stay focused and recharged. You can also outfit your home office with an air purifier.
