inspire me

New term interiors

Get prepped for a new start with a productive and inspiring space for school, university or work.

Back to school essentials

Whether it's for a teenager or a toddler, there's nothing like a new school bag and a stash of clean stationery to get you in the mood for back to school. Seek out sustainable school kit for the greener way to get prepped for the new school term. Think planet-friendly, recycled notebooks, refillable pens and backpacks and pencil cases made from recycled cotton or old plastic bottles. Pin timetables and to-do lists on an eco, cork noticeboard and stay hydrated with a stainless steel water bottle. You'll be top of the class in no time.

TOP TIP: Bright sparks will want to protect their tech with laptop and phone cases made from upcycled materials. A*s all round!

Photo credit: Eco-friendly cork notice board from LIGA (loveliga.com)

Make uni digs feel like home

Transform basic student halls into a cool, home-from-home space with a few easy tricks. A new set of budget-friendly bedding and a pile of colourful cushions is the best way to inject personality on a shoestring. And invest in a few foldaway chairs – a godsend for cramped student digs, especially when impromptu guests turn up. Don't forget an alarm clock too so you'll never be late for a lecture again – seek out multitasking tech with USB ports for charging phones and playing music. A classic desk lamp is a must for night-time studies while colour-changing, LED strip lights will turn your room into a party zone at the flick of a switch. Enjoy!

TOP TIP: Students can never have enough mugs, so invest in a cheap and cheerful set. Add in a vibrant colour block rug underfoot to cosy things up.

Photo credit: A fresh yellow and white study space featuring the Milton table from Furniture And Choice (furniturechoice.co.uk)

Upgrade your home office hub

Whether full time or a flexible hybrid, working from home is here to stay. So, it's wise to get the most out of your 9 to 5 by creating a practical and inspiring WFH office. Smart storage, good lighting and a simple yet inspiring colour palette all add up to a super-efficient work zone. Think smart box files, long rows of shelving and a modern, overhead pendant if natural lighting is scarce. Your business hub should be a creative and stimulating space too so decorate walls with gorgeous artwork or a new lick of paint. Green hues are said to be the most stress-reducing shades so perfect for a relaxing yet productive space.

TOP TIP: Fill your office with plants for a tranquil, holistic work experience. Snake plants and Monstera Deliciosa are a great choice for adding a big dose of positive energy and colour.

Photo credit: A bright and inviting home office hub with the Pooky Cooper Wall Light (pooky.com)

Do a declutter

Before you invest in any new term kit, it's crucial to do a declutter. Donate or regift any old furniture or equipment that no longer works for you or your household. Clear out filing cabinets and box up important paperwork or shred anything you no longer need. If children have outgrown bags and pencil cases, give them a quick wash and give to a charity shop or a reuse school hub. Buy brightly coloured, metal lockers and get your studies or school work in order before September 1st. New term, new start…

TOP TIP: Get the kids to test their pens and chuck out or recycle any that are out of ink. Sharpening pencils will create a new set with no need to splash out on more.

Photo credit: The Shorty locker in Navy and the Midi locker in Ocean from Mustard Made (mustardmade.com)