Garcelle Beauvais doesn't stray from the truth! The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star has been refreshingly candid about the impact and struggles the COVID-19 pandemic has had on her and her twin 13-year-old sons, Jaid and Jax when it comes to virtual learning.
The eye-opening experience shifted the way she thinks when it comes to teachers. She's found newfound gratitude, and to show them just how much she appreciates them, she's partnered with HomeGoods ahead of the school year — and all the back-to-school shopping.
Together they redesigned a teacher's lounge at the Benjamin Franklin K-8 Center in Miami, Florida. But why Miami specifically? She's a product of the Miami school district, of course.
"I was born in Haiti and attended high school in the Miami area, and my sister is a Vice Principal at a nearby school in Miami. My teachers played a huge role in inspiring me to dream big, so it was important to me to go back to my roots to give back to teachers in the area," she explains in a recent E! Online article.
Filled with bright yellow cabinets, multi-colored rugs, and only the best armchairs, she's giving us all the classroom décor ideas when it comes to creating a warm, inspiring space, and now you can too.
5 Garcelle Beauvais classroom décor ideas
Whether you are a teacher looking for budget-friendly ways to elevate your own teacher's lounge, or a parent hoping to inspire their child during yet another year of virtual learning, she's here to inspire.
Garcelle Beauvais outlined five classroom décor ideas to remember when decorating your space this school year, as well as some selections to bring your vision to life. (And, since HomeGoods items are only available in stores, we've rounded up some sensational substitutions from their sister brand, TJ MAXX.)
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Classroom Décor Idea #1: Use vertical space to draw your eyes up, up, up!
"We used hanging shelves, a vertical bookcase, and eye-popping art to lift the mood and draw your attention upward. Adding writing utensils, notebooks, and other fun finds make it a one-of-a-kind space that is both stylish and functional," explains Garcelle Beauvais.
Try these classroom décor ideas:
SAGEBROOK HOME 4-Tier Shelf for $129, at TJ MAXX
Four tiers of ample storage and featuring a rustic base, this farmhouse-inspired bookshelf is perfect for storing the school essentials — or sharply displaying chic coffee table books.
JT ROSE 25in Mango Wood Shelf for $59.99, at TJ MAXX
This 25-inch mango wood wall-mounted two-tier shelf is excellent for anyone short on space. Excellent paired desk to your floating desk or suitable to work as a standalone, it's a great addition anywhere.
CRYSTAL ART GALLERYRock On Neon Light l Was $59.99, Now $43, at TJ Maxx
Whether you are a teacher having a bad day, or a student struggling with a never-ending day, this neon light will be the refreshing motivator you need to rock on (and push through).
Classroom Décor Idea #2: Infuse color to create dimension and energy
"[You can find] a wide variety of colorful takes on even the most basic kitchen essentials such as bowls, cups, and kettles. Let the essentials serve as added décor by displaying your finds on open shelving. Plus, add soothing energy with plants and florals – faux ones, that is. I added a little personal touch with yellow orchids on the dining table – I have them in my own home," adds Beauvais.
Try these classroom décor ideas:
SIENA 10in Succulents In Printed Pot for $24.99, at TJ Maxx
Yes, plants look great outside the best outdoor furniture, but this printed faux succulent is the case, and point when it comes to why you should bring your greenery inside. Small enough for compact pace, the rock details and padded feet packs a decorative punch.
SIENA 27in Real Touch Orchid for $19.99, at TJ Maxx
Light, bright, and whimsical, this orchid brings a real-life approach to any console or tabletop.
SILKCRAFT OF OREGON Pampas Grass In Beveled Vase for $39.99, at TJ Maxx
Florals and plants, not your thing? Reach for this pampas grass in a beveled vase; it's the trendy alternative everyone loves.
Classroom Décor Idea #3: Add light for ambiance and mood
"Look for unique lamps to brighten dark spaces or nooks [much] like the peaceful feeling that this glow light adds to our zen space. When possible, let natural light shine and enhance the small space by adding wow-worthy curtains to large window areas – the curtains transform the otherwise blank space into a cohesive room with an overall aesthetic," she explains.
Try these classroom décor ideas:
HOME MAISON 100x84 Set Of 2 Extra Wide Keighley Linen Blend Curtains for $79.99, at TJ Maxx
Good lighting recalls on actually letting the light in, so it's best to stay clear of any curtains with the word "blackout" associated with them. This linen choice is the simple solution to promote natural light but gives it just enough coverage.
NORTHERN LIGHTS 25oz 3 Wick Harvest Pumpkin Candle for $14.99, at TJ Maxx
If natural light isn't an option, there are plenty of ways to mimic the same effect, and one excellent way is by incorporating one of the best candles. This hand-poured selection will lighten up any space while providing the most seasonally appropriate, utterly divine scent.
JIMCO Metal Floor Lamp for $59.99, at TJ Maxx
With a three-way switch and insertable UV-bulb, this floor lamp will lighten and brighten rooms in the most fashion-forward of ways.
Classroom Décor Idea #4: Mix and match styles with a new twist
"I love to get inspired and try out new trends. I like to integrate tried and true items like this classic, yet statement-making, golden yellow velvet accent chair in tandem with trendy materials like this rattan coffee table," adds Garcelle Beauvais.
Try these classroom décor ideas:
Rattan Basket Rattan Handle Collection starting at $19.99, at TJ Maxx
Organize your space in the trendiest of ways with these rattan baskets. With a slew of sizes up for grabs, you can mix and match to accommodate all of your needs.
COAST TO COAST Set Of 2 Rattan Lamps for $99.99, at TJ Maxx
Kill two birds with one stone by reaching for this set of two lamps. Not only will it brighten up your space, but the very on-trend rattan will be a classic from one season to the next.
JOFRAN Set Of 2 Marble C Tables for $99.99, at TJ Maxx
Desks can be an excellent addition to any teacher's lounge or home learning center, but the issue is they're big and bulky and require a lot of space. Meaning: if you are short on space, you need to think outside the box.
Enter: this set of two marble accent tables. They provide just enough of a surface for laptops or lunches without cluttering your room.
Classroom Décor Idea #5: Let the space inspire you
"Incorporate bright pops of color through unique artwork, placed a handful of essential oil diffusers, and added plush, comfortable seating options. [Here] we added meaningful touches by filling a special, glass sphere jar from HomeGoods with inspirational quotes for the teachers to read when they need an extra boost of positivity," concludes Beauvais.
Try these classroom décor ideas:
Adalene Velvet Accent Chair for $249.99, at TJ Maxx
Are you looking for the best armchair? Take a load off your feet and retire to this velvet, lush choice.
WOOLZIES Set Of 6 Favorites Essential Oils l Was $12.99, Now $10, at TJ Maxx
From floral lavender to fresh eucalyptus, you won't just find the best home fragrances in this set: you'll get a curated glimpse into nature too.
RAE DUNN 'Blessed' Glass Jar with Cotton Balls for $7.99, at TJ Maxx
As a teacher, you know that accidents happen, and it's great to stay ahead of them; this glass jar with cotton balls has you covered. Perfect for everything from art projects to spills, you can wipe up any mishaps and later repurpose this glass jar for other use when empty.
Brittany Romano is a Shopping Editor, based in New York City. From her start as a fashion market assistant at Marie Claire to building a highly profitable commerce vertical at Us Weekly and AMI brands, Brittany has produced award-winning content covering everything from celebrity beauty hacks to must-have items from online sales. She is a graduate of New England College. When she isn’t writing, you can find Brittany indulging in yet another DIY project or cheering on her beloved Boston Bruins.
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