Due to knowing many of the students at the school, I wanted to create a space that reflected their diverse beauty and creativity; something that would de-stigmatize counseling and draw them in because the space looked inviting from the hallway. I did this with colorful neon signs, decor with positive messaging, and figurines of rainbows and balloon animals. I softened the sterility of the 50+ year old window wall with gauzy, colorful curtains, and used bright and playful rugs and floor pillows to distract from the worn orange carpet. While we didn't have time or budget to modify the walls, floor, or ceiling, it was rewarding to see what new furnishings, decor, and plants did to enliven the room and get kids excited to spend time there. A counselor told me after the space was finished that instead of working in their office, they worked on the couch in the common area which was not only more comfortable, but also allowed for greater availability to welcome students into the space! Such a meaningful transformation!