Design Corner: Back to School & Back to Routine Picks from Our Interior Designer

As summer winds down and the rhythm of routine starts to return, it’s the perfect time to set your home up for a smooth transition into the school year. From organizing the morning rush to making dinner feel special (even on a Tuesday), we’ve rounded up our favorite picks to help you reset your space and ease back into real life - with style and intention.

Whether you're welcoming muddy boots and backpacks or looking to streamline your pantry game, these pieces bring form and function to the everyday.

1. The Mudroom Drop Zone

School mornings and rainy afternoons don’t have to mean chaos. Set the tone for smoother transitions with a designated drop zone that keeps the mess in check.

• Soft Storage Baskets
  Great for wrangling hats, gloves, or spare shoes.
  Hawkins New York Essential Basket

• Sculptural Brass Hooks
  Polished and practical—perfect for backpacks, coats, or even dog leashes.
  Posey Single Hook

• Bench Cushion
  A comfy landing spot for wrangling shoes or zipping jackets.
  Farmhouse Storage Bench Cushion

• Playful Throw Pillow
  Add a bit of charm with this green floral print from Magnolia.
  Flora Pillow in Dusty Green

• Boot Tray with Bamboo Insert
  Keeps wet shoes off your floors—while looking good doing it.
  Williams Sonoma Boot Tray

• Neutral Walk-Off Mat
  Durable and low-profile, perfect for high-traffic entryways.
  Chilewich Ribbons Rug

2. Reset the Kitchen: Pantry + Fridge Organization

A well-organized kitchen makes everything easier—from packing lunches to prepping weeknight dinners. These are our go-to tools for giving your pantry and fridge a practical refresh.

• Wire Pantry Baskets
  Ideal for grouping snacks, lunchbox supplies, and grab-and-go favorites.
  The Container Store Wire Baskets

• Glass Storage Jars
  Sleek and stackable for storing grains, pastas, or leftovers.
  Stackable Containers

• Countertop Storage Jars
  Beautiful enough to leave out, practical enough to use every day.
  Borosilicate Glass Jars

• Wood Storage Bins
  For pantry items that need corralled but still easily accessible.
  Acacia Wood Bin

• Spice Rack + Minimalist Jars
  Nothing says “I have it together” like a spice setup that’s both functional and beautiful.
  Spice Organizer
  Waldorf Spice Jar Set

• Pantry Labels
  Because a labeled pantry = a peaceful pantry.
  Minimalist Pantry Labels

• Fridge Baskets
  Slide-out organizers for your yogurt, snacks, or meal-prep ingredients.
  Yamazaki Refrigerator Bins

• Fruit Basket & Egg Holder
  A gentle reminder to eat what you have—and keep it fresh.
  Stoneware Fruit Basket
  Egg Crate

3. Simple + Elevated Dinner Setups

Back-to-school nights call for easy meals—but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style. These picks make the everyday feel a little more special.

• Gauze Placemats
  Soft, washable, and beautifully textured.
  Quince Airy Gauze Placemats

• Everyday Dinnerware Set
  Neutral but not boring—great for mixing with what you already own.
  CB2 Prado Dinnerware

• Color-Blocked Napkins
  An instant way to add contrast and interest to your table.
  West Elm Pierce Ward Napkins

• Beachwood Flatware Set
  A fresh twist on classic silverware.
  Anthropologie Esben Flatware

• Serving Essentials
  Bowls, trays, and utensils that bring the whole meal together.
  Rustic Metal Serve Bowl
  Italian Bistro Round Tray
  Masen Serving Utensil Gift Set

• Handblown Glassware
  Perfect for everyday hydration or casual entertaining.
  Onda Tumbler Set

• Wooden Candle Holders
  Light a taper and call it a night.
  Tira Wood Candle Holders

Ready to Refresh Your Home This Fall?

Our Interior Furnishings team makes it easy to bring function, beauty, and intentional design to your everyday spaces. Whether you're organizing the mudroom or furnishing an entire floor, we’ll help you get it done—without the stress.

📍 Based in Northeast Seattle? We’re your neighbors.
📩 Schedule a free design consultation or reach out to learn more.