This homework station is a lesson in blending the old with the new

See how this mom of two used IKEA Kreativ to deck out a stylish desk area for her kids.

In this bustling household belonging to Xin Lu, home decor-related projects are seemingly constant. As witnessed on her Instagram feed, the DIY-savvy creative behind AtHomeWithXin and mom of two (ages 7 and 10) recently reupholstered a sofa, built a bunk bed, and created a mudroom from scratch. For her latest project, improving the homework station in her son and daughter’s playroom, she found a new ally in IKEA Kreativ.

Previously a formal dining room, the converted kid-friendly space opens to the foyer and connects to the kitchen with a small hallway. Needless to say, controlling clutter was just as important as providing her little ones with a stylish space where they could work and be creative. The trick was finding a desk that offered storage, was big enough for both of them, and would fit in such a small area. Using IKEA Kreativ, Xin was able to try out different options until she found the perfect one, without leaving the comfort of her home. And the best part? Everything was to-scale so she knew the desk would fit before she purchased it. 

We caught up with Xin to chat more about the adorable room makeover and to see what her kids thought about the final reveal.

Q: How would you describe your design aesthetic? 

Xin Lu: This question is hard to answer because I like a mix of different styles.  I would [say] modern traditional with a touch of whimsy.  I also like to add plants and thrifted pieces to my spaces. 

Q: Who or what inspires you when it comes to interior design?

XL: I am on Instagram a lot so the majority of my inspiration comes from designers and content creator friends that I follow. 

Q: What problem(s) were you trying to solve in the playroom?

XL: We had a small table that the kids shared. It was too small for both [of them] and they were always pushing things to the side. I also wanted more storage space for their supplies so the LAGKAPTEN/ALEX drawers are perfect.

Q: How did you incorporate your personal style into the design of your kids’ desk area?

XL: My kids’ only request [was] a bigger desk so they left all the design decisions to me. I [tried] to make the homework station something that [would] grow with them.  The IKEA pieces are very versatile — a quick swap of the desk pad can take this [setup] from a kids’ desk to a more grown-up look. 

Q: How did IKEA Kreativ help?

XL: It was so helpful to see the furniture in place [and] to-scale. [IKEA Kreativ] helped me see how it would look before I went to pick up the pieces at IKEA.

Q: What tips do you have for anyone wanting to refresh a space for their kid(s)? 

XL: Think about the function first then look for pieces that will fit that function.

Q: What is one thing that surprised you the most about using IKEA Kreativ? 

XL:  I was surprised at how accurate the rendering was. I [also] really like the function to delete things so you can get a clean slate without physically moving [them].

Q: We love the way you incorporated pieces you already had around the house with the new pieces. What suggestions do you have for blending the old with the new?

XL:  I think blending old and new makes your room feel [less] like a showroom and more like a home.

Q: Is there a story behind the vintage chairs?

XL: I scored them for $5 each at [a] thrift store! I like that they aren’t too precious, but still have some history. If they were family heirlooms, I probably would not want my kids sitting [on] them.

Q: What is your kids’ favorite thing(s) about the updated space? What is your favorite thing?

XL: They love having their own desk and storage. I made each side the same so there [would be] no fighting. 

Q: Were they surprised when they got home from school and saw the finished space? 

XL: Yes, they were both so surprised when they came home from school and saw their new desks!