Kids returning to school means teachers and staff are returning too, so we were excited to brighten the first day back for a local public school that asked for help updating their teachers’ lounge.
In June someone who’d seen our makeover of Hudson’s room reached out to ask if we’d volunteer for another project. The principal and PTA wanted the teachers’ lounge refreshed over the summer as a surprise for staff in September. Teachers and school staff work incredibly hard, so this was an easy yes.
The PTA set aside part of their teacher appreciation budget for the project, but we aimed to minimize spending and secure donations wherever possible. Here’s what the space looked like when we first visited:
A local contractor, Ryan from Ferguson General Contracting, was the real hero — he donated significant time, labor, and materials. We guided the design, selected finishes and accessories, and handled some finishing touches like the lettering on the back wall, while Ryan’s team completed the major work: painting, cabinetry, flooring, and backsplash installation.
We also made a short overview video to show the transformation and the team’s excitement.
The principal wanted a room that felt grown-up but still energetic — a kid-free refuge for staff. We chose a black-and-white palette and a cafe/bistro vibe to create contrast and calm, offering a visual counterpoint to the colorful classrooms. After all, it’s a lunch space.
Replacing the folding tables, the new buffet area under the bulletin boards provides storage and counter space for microwaves and PTA luncheons. Ryan generously donated the matching microwaves. The bulletin boards themselves are original, but we removed an old gray-green fabric cover to reveal the cork underneath.
The new kitchen area is a standout feature. It was updated entirely through donations, so the PTA’s teacher fund wasn’t tapped for cabinetry or appliances. The cabinets and hardware came from a local showroom, counters from a stone provider, and the backsplash tile was donated, while we purchased affordable chairs to seat the group.
The principal requested commercial vinyl flooring so maintenance routines remained consistent with the rest of the building. Rather than a typical speckled commercial look, we used solid black and white vinyl tiles applied in wide stripes for a crisp, modern effect that still meets durability needs.
The sink base had to remain open for accessibility, so a parent donated a custom burlap-style curtain that velcros into place to conceal storage. It complements other natural woven tones used throughout the room and is removable for washing or swapping later.
We used a discounted honed veiny black granite slab for the counters. Its organic pattern softens the bold floor stripes and adds depth. A small burlap “Thank You” plaque sits on the counter to acknowledge contributors.
Accommodating refrigerators was a major challenge. The staff needed more storage than the single existing fridge allowed, and the layout felt awkward. We planned for two full-size fridges with ice makers and repositioned them on the back wall alongside the vending machines for a more balanced look. The old fridge was donated to another school.
Securing the refrigerators required outreach and luck. The PTA budget couldn’t cover two new units, so we asked for donations and were thrilled when a major appliance brand agreed to donate two stainless-steel side-by-side refrigerators with ice makers. Their finish coordinates with the room’s metal accents, and the smudge-resistant surfaces are ideal for a busy staff area.
The light fixtures are woven pendants that introduce warm natural tones to balance the monochrome palette. Because we couldn’t alter the room’s wiring, we removed the electrical components and suspended the shades from clear fishing line for a layered, airy look.
For a playful focal point, we designed a cafe-style mural on the back wall. We experimented with a few names and chose one that references the school mascot. Using a projector, we traced the lettering in reverse onto acetate and transferred it to the wall, then filled the letters with white paint to create a crisp sign that reads like a neighborhood cafe.
After installing the major elements, we added finishing touches: planters on the tables, a wood mirror on the back wall, woven baskets on the counters, colorful art on the bulletin boards, small countertop pin boards, and a donated single-serve coffee machine. These details make the room welcoming and practical for daily use.
The makeover finished just a week before staff returned from summer break. The principal kept the project a secret with a “DO NOT ENTER! PLUMBING ISSUES!” sign on the door, then surprised everyone by bringing them into the refreshed lounge. The reactions were priceless; the principal was moved to tears when she explained why this update mattered so much, and the whole team was deeply appreciative.
We’re grateful to the many donors and volunteers who made this possible: the contractor who donated labor and materials, parents and local companies who contributed furnishings and fixtures, and the PTA for funding the parts that couldn’t be donated. As the child of a long-time teacher, this project was especially meaningful, and it was a privilege to help create a comfortable, functional space for the school’s hardworking staff.
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