We're in the process of putting together a new space for writing, creating, playing, and making messes in our house. Formerly, we did most of these things in the room we called the office, which has now been converted into the nursery. My husband did his part, building an unbelievably inspiring room for us in the basement for our creative pursuits. Now it's our turn: Jack and I need to furnish it for function, organize our tools, and start making masterpieces.
So far I planted the easel in the corner, refinished the table from my old OT office, and added some just-right sized chairs. All of these items are Ikea finds. The table is my favorite because it is height adjustable and very versitile. I cut down Ikea trestle table legs so they could be easily adjusted from preschool-aged to elementary-aged table height. That way I can modify the table height to the size of the children who I work with, as well as to my own growing children, for a perfect fit. Height-adjustable tables are also great for encouraging kids to work in different positions depending on the project. Some projects are great to do while seated and others are better accomplished while standing, adjusting the table to counter height. You can also raise and lower the table at an angle, like a drafting table. This position encourages wrist extension during drawing and writing activities, facilitating a more mature grasp. Whew! All that function from an inexpensive Ikea "hack."
I just started organizing our tools and materials on an old, repurposed shelf. I have big plans for more shelves eventually... but first I want to live in the space a little and figure out exactly what we need where. I'm BIG on the idea that form follows function.
In the closet behind the easel I put our mini trampoline and a couple of tunnels, so we can transform the space for some creative gross motor activities as well.
I have so many other ideas, it's hard to decide what to do first. What's working for you in your creative space?
