Let’s talk about the quiet chaos that happens in August.

You know that feeling—summer’s still here, but September is already knocking. This year feels different for me because my son is starting high school. I honestly can’t believe we’re here already! It’s a big transition, not just for him, but for me too. And while we’re figuring out class schedules, lockers, and a whole new rhythm, I’ve been looking around our home thinking… this setup worked for Grade 8, but it’s not going to cut it for what’s coming next.

So I’m using August to refresh a few key areas of our home—not with a full overhaul, but with intentional shifts that support the season we’re entering. If you’re in a similar place (whether your little ones are heading to JK or your teens are outgrowing childhood routines), I thought I’d share a few things I’m doing to get ahead of the September scramble.

The “Teen Tech + Study Zone” That Actually Works for Both of Us

In our house, the days of sitting at the kitchen table to do homework are officially over. High school brings laptops, long assignments, and way more independence. But let’s be honest—left to their own devices, teens will literally end up doing math from the couch, surrounded by snack wrappers.

So I carved out a sleek, low-clutter workspace just for him. Nothing over-designed or rigid—just clean surfaces, quality lighting, and a few intentionally placed organizers to keep tech cords, notebooks, and headphones from exploding everywhere.

Here’s what I'm adding:

• A minimalist desktop organizer with compartments for his essentials

• A subtle diffuser with a calming scent (I hear it helps with focus!)

• A no-nonsense drawer system to hide the mess but keep things close

Shop what I'd use:

• Pottery Barn Teen metal desk accessories set

• Three by Three Seattle metal drawer organizer set

The “Grab & Go” Kitchen Zone That Frees Me From Being His Sous-Chef

He’s 14 now, and I’m gently nudging him toward making his own breakfast and packing lunch once in a while. (We’ll see how that goes!) But the real shift I made was rethinking our kitchen zones—not just for food, but for workflow.

I created a self-serve setup with beautiful, labeled bins for lunch snacks, protein bars, thermoses, and reusable water bottles. He knows where everything is, and it keeps the rest of the kitchen clear for my own morning routine.

Pro tip: Your staff or nanny can easily keep this stocked once the system is in place. And yes—it still looks beautiful.

My go-to products:

• EcoWood Pantry bins

• Stasher reusable silicone snack bag

The “Teenage Drop Zone” Upgrade That Keeps the Front Hall from Exploding

Between gym clothes, sneakers, lifeguarding lessons (yes, that’s the latest), and soon transit passes and IDs—our entryway will need to keep up.

So I elevated our drop zone to grow with him. Think less "kid cubby" and more "mini mudroom" with handsome baskets, hooks at the right height, and a shelf for everyday essentials like his AirPods, keys, and school badge. Now, everything has a place. And more importantly, he knows where that place is.

For a more grown-up look:

• Storage baskets from Bouclair

• Article Williams shelf and coat rack

Why This Isn’t Just About Being Organized

Here’s the truth: this isn’t about perfection. It’s about ease. My son is growing into a new level of independence, and I want our home to reflect that. When I create systems that are beautiful and functional, it’s one less thing I have to think about—and one more way I can support him without hovering.

As moms, we hold so much. But an unorganized home holds us back—and not in a good way. So if you’re feeling the nudge to make a few changes before September hits, I see you. And I’m doing it right alongside you.

Let’s Make Your September Smoother Together

If you’re already working with a designer, a nanny, or a cleaner, adding a professional organizer to your home team is the natural next step. These are the kinds of shifts that save time, reduce stress, and make your home feel like it’s working for you, not against you.

Need help making the most of your home this fall?
Book your Consultation here
I’d love to help you make this transition feel calm, elevated, and totally customized to your family’s lifestyle.

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Happy August,

Kira