A student walks into a classroom and immediately feels at ease. Not because it’s their favorite subject or because they have friends in the class, but because the environment is welcoming. Pillows, soft lighting and decorations make students feel more comfortable than they would in a plain classroom. Studies show that experiencing comfort in one’s environment can lower cortisol, a stress hormone. This is especially important in learning spaces.

Teachers understand that the environment shapes the way students learn. A blank, white room can be unappealing to many students. English teacher Lisa Wilson’s classroom is decorated wall to wall with colorful carpeting, pillows, stuffed animals and Kansas City Chiefs décor.

“If your classroom looks like an institution, it’ll feel like a jail cell,” Wilson said. “Your kids will act like prisoners.”

English teacher Whitney Phillips’ classroom features café-themed décor, ambient lighting and even a coffee station for students.

“This year I made it feel like a coffee house,” Phillips said. “I feel like kids are more engaged and everyone’s more relaxed.”

A well-decorated classroom can help students feel comfortable and ready to learn. Teachers and students looking to create this type of environment can start by experimenting with décor.

“Don’t be afraid to try fun and different things,” Wilson said. “You would think the pillows would get all gross…, they never do.”

According to agriculture teacher Rhiannon Klodowski, expensive decorations aren’t necessary to make a room inviting.

“Things that make the space feel more comfortable are the most important part,” Klodowski said. “If you have a safe environment, then you can build a safe space around that.”

Transforming a blank space into a welcoming environment isn’t always easy, but with some creativity and help from others, any classroom can feel inviting.

“If you’re surrounded by color, it inspires you, it calms you,” Wilson said. “I want kids to come in my room and feel like they’re in a home, not a classroom.”