Back-to-school season has a way of creeping up on you. One minute it's popsicles and sunscreen, and the next it's supply lists, sports schedules, and realizing your entryway has become a dumping ground for backpacks and cleats. We’ve been there.

So before things get too hectic, we pulled together a few of our favorite ways to bring some calm to the chaos. These are the small tweaks and thoughtful tools that help make mornings smoother, afternoons more focused, and everyone’s space feel just a little more together.

1. Give Their Desk Some Breathing Room

Cluttered desk = cluttered brain. (We’ve seen it in our own homes.) A few simple, well-designed pieces can make a big difference.

We love the Elin Linen Desk Caddy from Unison. It’s structured but soft, and blends in beautifully with any setup. For something a little more playful, the Squiggle Organizer on Etsy adds a sculptural touch to desktop storage without sacrificing function.

Etsy Squiggle Organizer Barrett Oswald — *Courtesy of Etsy*

2. Create a Drop Zone That Works

Whether it’s school papers, sports gear, or random cords, having a place for everything is half the battle. As a firm dedicated to creating a personalized yet functional family-home this is a must.

We’re fans of the Zara Home Organizer Boxes: minimal, lidded, and perfect for stashing the things you don’t want to look at every day. The Acrylic File Box from Russell + Hazel is another favorite. It’s simple and chic and makes even paperwork look put together.

Zara Home Organizers Westchester Interior Design — *Courtesy of Zara*

3. Don’t Underestimate a Good Catch-All

Not everything needs to be labeled or sorted. Sometimes you just need a box. A really good one. While we often try to source personalized catch-all’s in color ways that match our client’s needs, we recommend a neutral color for kids. This is to match their own vibrant decor while having the ability to move around the home.

This All-Purpose Linen Storage Box in a neutral tone from The Container Store (part of the Marie Kondo line) is perfect for this. Think: library books, cords, extra markers, or that one Pokémon card that has to live somewhere safe.

Marie Kondo Westchester Interior Design — *Courtesy of The Container Store*

4. Shared Calendar = Sanity Saver

The Skylight Calendar is digital but lives on the wall, so everyone knows what’s happening and when. Practices, school plays, field trips, either way it all goes here. And it actually looks good, which is saying something for a family command center.

To personalize this as a home decor area, try livening up a small section of a countertop with your Skylight Calendar and some small plants, candles and other items for layering. This will help the shared calendar system feel as if it’s a cohesive part of the home.

Back to school calendar westchester interior design — *Courtesy of Skylight Calendar*

5. Make Homework Feel Less Like Homework

A cozy setup makes a difference. A no-nails pinboard from PB Teen adds personality and function without drilling into the walls. Pair it with a favorite notebook from Appointed and voila. We like that these two options look grown-up but still comes in fun colors.

If you’re wanting the setup to feel even more like a treat for the kids, ask them to join in on decorating the pinboard or opening section of the notebook. They can paste their favorite photos from a recent family trip or magazine cut outs.

Pottery Barn Westchester Interior Design — *Courtesy of PB Teen*

6. For the Cleats, Balls, and Bags

We don’t need to tell you what a hallway looks like after soccer practice.

The Metal Grid Rolling Storage Bin from PB Teen is a lifesaver. Toss everything in, roll it into the garage or mudroom, and move on with your life. We recommend having at least two of these in the house, one for sports items and the other for bags, shoes and daily items to keep somewhat of a hygienic system for the boys.

PB teen westchester interior design — *Courtesy of PB Teen*

We know the transition back to school can feel like a lot. But a little structure (and some good-looking storage) can make a big difference. We’re always thinking of ways we can personalize our client’s homes while tailoring it around a family unit. If you’ve found an organization system that’s working for your family, we’d love to see it.

Share your setup or tag us! We're always inspired by how our clients and community design for real life.

In the meantime, feel free to join our email list if you’re interested in receiving more decor-inspired tips for the home and outdoor space.

Back-to-School, But Make It Organized