Learning Material: What Makes a Study Space in the Children's Room So Important

In Conversation with Designer Sascha Sartory.

Sascha Sartory, himself a father of two children, develops a wide range of products with his "Sartory Design Studio". For Müller Small Living, for example, he designed the BRIDGE desk. This is available in a simple version or with a storage surface and a rolling container.

As soon as the children start school, a desk moves into the children's room. Although many children prefer to do their homework where the family bustle is, a dedicated place to study in their own room is important. What does a desk for primary school pupils need?

Sascha Sartory: A desk should primarily offer space for creativity and focused work. For this, it needs a large, preferably neutral workspace on which one can freely develop oneself. To keep this tidy, storage space is absolutely essential. The storage compartments in BRIDGE, for example, ensure quick accessibility and optimal use of space. Likewise, the container where writing utensils, paper, notebooks, folders, and so forth can be stored. Because the container is very flexible, the legroom can be individually adjusted to the needs.

And what does a desk for teenagers need?

Sascha Sartory: If a product is robust and timeless, it brings joy and is in use for a long time. It grows with the user and is also suitable for adolescents. Ideally, the desk will also be used in student accommodation and beyond. Its long lifespan is naturally valuable in terms of sustainability. Otherwise, for teenagers the same applies as for children: a large workspace and storage are essential.

Children's and youth rooms are very individual – as are their occupants. What style must a desk have so that it fits everywhere?

Sascha Sartory: Through a rather neutral, timeless design, a product integrates well into different environments. As trends and tastes continually change during the development of children and adolescents, it is important to design furniture neutrally and timelessly. This way, it remains in use for a long time. Decorative elements or desk accessories can then be added or swapped according to mood, preference, or trend. However, the desk itself remains and has the chance to endure beyond youth, into later stages of life and work.

"A tidy desk with a generous workspace helps with learning."

Next to a shelf, directly by the window... Where is the best place to position the desk in the room?

Sascha Sartory: That naturally depends on the layout of the children's room. Basically, large contrasts in light should be avoided, as the eyes quickly tire due to constant adjustment. If daylight comes directly from behind, because the window is at the back, it causes glare on the screen. The optimal position of the desk is beside the window. Power sockets under or next to the furniture are practical. Bookshelves within reach complement the desk's storage space and offer room for reading material, folders, magazine files, and so on.

Is there a trick to encourage children to voluntarily sit at the desk and do their homework?

Sascha Sartory: Learning must be enjoyable. It helps if a generous workspace offers enough room for creative development. When the desk is tidy, there are fewer distractions and more concentration.