A child-friendly penthouse

Maria Dueñas Jacobs, former accessories director at Elle magazine and founder of the children's jewelry line Super Smalls, has designed her New York West Village apartment to be both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional for her family, which includes her husband, Jordan, and their three daughters, Luna, Isa, and Silvi. Recognizing the challenges of maintaining a pristine home with young children, Jacobs adopted a philosophy of "strategic mess," focusing on durability and flexibility in her design choices. The apartment's layout, conceived with architects Marc Turkel of Leroy Street Studio and designer Jerry Cappiello, features a versatile four-bedroom plan that can adapt as her children grow from toddlers to teenagers. The home maintains a streamlined and intentional aesthetic, characterized by a neutral color palette accented with lavender and dusty blush tones. Key pieces of furniture, such as an ash- and burl-wood credenza, a navy leather-front bureau, and a Theo Ruth shearling club chair, provide grounding elements. Despite its sophisticated appearance, the apartment integrates numerous child-friendly features. The open-plan living, kitchen, and dining areas facilitate easy supervision, while an expandable dining table is paired with a built-in banquette upholstered in stain-resistant outdoor fabric. A custom ottoman with curved edges and scratch-resistant mohair caters to both children and their pet cat, Frankie, ensuring the space is suitable for entertaining, daily life, and family activities. Jacobs's approach extends to whimsical and practical decor. She incorporated spill-hiding, colorful patterned rugs and a custom daybed with built-in storage. The girls' bedroom is designed as a perpetual slumber party, featuring a teepee, cloud-painted walls, and a unique Murano glass light fixture. The adjacent playroom emphasizes freedom and joy, with movable furniture like bookshelves, beanbag chairs, and an arts-and-crafts table to accommodate dance parties and scooter rides. Practical elements are subtly woven into these playful spaces; for instance, the bunk bed includes stairs with hidden storage drawers, and the loft area can be converted into a desk or game spot in the future. Adult spaces also reflect a balance of practicality and creativity. The guest room includes a custom pull-out trundle for visitors, while the living room showcases a custom Moroccan rug mashup of two different patterns that Jacobs combined. Her bedside tables are topped with rose quartz, chosen for both its durability and its perceived magical and healing properties. The living room bookshelf serves as a display for personal and collected items, such as a Buddha statue, family photos, and ceramic vessels. Art plays a significant role, with pieces ranging from a Warhol print and a Robert Motherwell print to abstract paintings by Jacobs’s artist mother, Rosaria Pugliese, and even her children’s drawings, all coexisting harmoniously. Investment pieces are strategically placed out of children's reach, such as a Kalmar chandelier and disc lights by Apparatus Studio, which Jacobs considers akin to art or jewelry that completes an outfit. This thoughtful integration of high-end design with kid-proof functionality creates a home that is both beautiful and resilient, allowing for both sophisticated adult living and energetic child's play. The overall design prioritizes a lived-in, adaptable style that accommodates the evolving needs of a growing family, embracing the joyful chaos that comes with children while maintaining an elegant aesthetic. #FamilyHomeDesign #KidFriendlyDecor #InteriorDesign #WestVillageApartment #FlexibleLiving #NeutralColorPalette #CustomFurniture #HomeTour

After 12 years of renting, Tali Magal and her husband, Craig Fleishman, purchased a two-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn. With twin 6-year-old daughters, Amalia and Gabriela (Mali and Gigi), Magal sought a dedicated play area, beyond the shared bedroom. Initially, she envisioned transforming a vintage armoire to store art supplies and toys, allowing for easy cleanup by simply closing the doors. However, her close friend and designer, John Rawlins, offered an alternative that maximized space and versatility. Rawlins identified two empty walls between the bathroom and laundry room as prime real estate. Instead of introducing an additional furniture piece, he proposed building directly into these walls, utilizing previously unused square footage. This concept led to the creation of a highly adaptable, Narnia-esque cabinet system, designed to serve multiple functions from imaginative play to academic tasks. The resulting built-in unit offered a seamless aesthetic when closed, appearing as a continuous backdrop to the living and dining areas. The full potential of this creative storage system became evident when the girls began Zoom kindergarten. The cabinets seamlessly transformed into a functional homeschooling setup, providing a dedicated space for learning. To facilitate smooth transitions between a streamlined appearance and a fully engaged kids' zone, Rawlins designed the cabinet doors to tuck away along the side walls when open, ensuring an unobstructed walkway. The uniform wood choice for the cabinet fronts and adjacent room doors created a cohesive, integrated look. Magal noted that the ability to close off the children's activity area at the end of the day offered a significant advantage over a traditional playroom. This feature allowed the family to "shut the chaos away," creating a clear separation between work and play, which proved particularly valuable during the pandemic for establishing a sense of relaxation and unwinding for the family. The design fostered a sense of calm and order within the home. Furthermore, the design unintentionally provided the girls with independent work areas, fostering a sense of autonomy during their daily classroom sessions. When open, the individual spaces within the cabinets created a learning "cocoon," further enhanced by noise-canceling headphones. Magal emphasized the importance of allowing the sisters to personalize their stations, fostering a sense of pride and ownership. Mali, described as meticulously organized, arranged her wall-mounted storage for school supplies, while Gigi, an artist, adorned her space with drawings and utilized an alphabet display above her desk for letter learning. This personalization encouraged individuality despite their shared living arrangements. The system's original function as a storage solution for children's supplies remains active. Extra shelves positioned above both cabinet sections accommodate toys, crafts, and general household overflow. The desks themselves are adjustable shelves, designed to adapt to the girls' growth, allowing for height adjustments as they get taller. From the twins' perspective, these new desks symbolize a step towards maturity; Gigi, for instance, takes pride in independently managing her mute and unmute functions during Zoom classes, highlighting the practical and developmental benefits of their personalized learning environment. #KidsRoomDesign #SpaceSavingSolutions #HiddenStorage #CustomCabinetry #HomeschoolingSetup #ChildrensPlayArea #BrooklynApartment #InteriorDesign #OrganizationalTips

This article showcases five distinct children's bedroom designs, each tailored to the unique personalities and preferences of its young occupant(s). The first section, "Sophie & Mimi: Double the Fun," details a shared bedroom for two sisters, Sophie (6) and Mimi (4). Designed by builder Jason Drake and designer Edwina Vidosh, the room features two separate sleeping areas connected by a common bathroom and a custom-built loft playroom. The innovative design includes built-in desks, bookshelves, and cubbies hidden within the stairs leading to the loft. The rooms are visually linked by coordinating pink, blue, and white colors in bedding and window treatments, with playful rustic hutches and custom closets replacing traditional dressers. Vidosh utilized complementary-colored wallpaper on a single wall behind each bed to add visual interest without being over-stimulating. The loft space is equipped with a toddler daybed and a child-size sofa, along with a vibrant area rug. Key elements include whitewashed wood bark beds from La Lune Collection. The second section, "Taylor: Welcome to the Jungle," presents an 11-year-old girl's jungle-themed bedroom in Armonk, inspired by her love for animals. Architect and interior designer Beata Buhl-Tatka incorporated green and earth tones, along with natural, sustainable materials like bamboo, jute rope, mosquito netting, and all-wool carpeting. The goal was to create a jungle mood that was not overly dark or conflicting with the home's elegant aesthetic. The room includes an oversized armchair sleeper for guests, a custom-designed built-in bookcase for her extensive book collection, and draperies featuring a Brunschwig & Fils monkey-and-palm tree print. Dark bamboo nightstands and a leather trunk end table complete the theme, which is further enhanced by numerous stuffed animals. Next, "Noah C.: Out of this World" features an 11-year-old boy's Mars-themed room in Mount Kisco. Architect James T. Best designed the room with an outer-space view of Earth, building a spaceship-style bed with bookshelves integrated into its legs. Plywood was used to create the rough texture of the planet's terrain and for the intricate command center inside the rocket's nose cone. Artist Kendall Klingbeil painted the room with detailed red, orange, and gray scenery, including a spacecraft, planets, and glow-in-the-dark stars, and depicted the historical moment of the U.S. flag on the moon. The room also includes a loft-like landing platform for studying, with each step concealing a storage drawer. The signature of astronaut Sally Ride adds an authentic touch. The fourth design, "Tori: Pink Paradise," describes a 6-year-old girl's princess-themed bedroom in Rye Brook. Designer Jeanette Hubley-Lasher aimed to create a balanced space using pink and white shades. The room features Pierre Deux pink-and-white classic toile wallpaper, a whitewashed four-poster bed from Country Willow Kids with crystal knobs and an elaborate Princess canopy, and a fringe-trimmed balloon valance. Hubley-Lasher used pastels to ensure the room's longevity and prevent the child from quickly tiring of the distinctive pattern. The en suite bathroom continues the theme with a dainty vanity and a miniature rose chandelier. Furniture includes a white lacquered dresser, wood bench, desk, and end table. Finally, "Noah M.: Timelessly Tailored" showcases a bedroom transformed for a 12-year-old boy in anticipation of his bar mitzvah. Interior designer Elaine Mager created a masculine yet warm space designed to grow with him. The room's color scheme transitioned from hunter green and tan to sophisticated shades of chocolate brown, taupe, and gold. It features a leather double bed from Crate & Barrel and Rosecore wall-to-wall carpeting with an understated plaid pattern. Patton Wallcoverings' natural grasscloth wallpaper adds texture, and a glazing technique gave the ceiling a suede-like appearance. Custom built-ins, designed with Alba Carrasco and Fernando Martinez of Go To Your Room, include a dark pine dresser, a floor-to-ceiling desk with shelves for trophies, and a natural pine under-window storage bench for games, helping to keep clutter at bay. The overall approach for all rooms emphasizes personalized, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environments for children. #KidsRoomDesign #ChildrensBedrooms #InteriorDesign #CustomFurniture #HomeDecor #ThemedRooms #SiblingSharedRoom #SustainableMaterials #SpaceSavingSolutions

This article explores the unexpected discovery of stylish and practical over-the-door organizers in children's sections of home decor stores, contrasting them with traditional, often unattractive, metal or plastic versions. The author initially encountered a fabric, gingham-patterned organizer and subsequently found several other appealing options typically marketed for nurseries and toddler rooms. These organizers offer effective space-saving solutions suitable for any room in a home. The article highlights seven specific over-the-door organizers, each with unique design and functional attributes. The first is a 3 Sprouts Over the Door Organizer, noted for its attractive gingham-print fabric and four large pockets. This model, despite being essential for nursery and toddler rooms, is presented as a visually pleasing alternative to standard designs. Another featured item is the Amazon Decorative Hanging Nursery Baskets, praised for its natural woven design comprising three baskets. Measuring 44.5 inches long with 7-inch high and 14-inch wide pockets, it is suggested for bedrooms to store items like books or headphones, offering a more aesthetically pleasing option than harsh metal counterparts. The Amazon Boho Nursery Decor Over Door Storage is introduced for its bohemian style, featuring tassel trims on each pocket. Its practicality is enhanced by a laminate fabric lining to prevent sagging, and it includes two metal hooks for hanging. This organizer is ideal for individuals seeking to incorporate a bohemian aesthetic into their storage solutions. A set of two Gap babyGap Over the Door Storage Organizers is also discussed, offering a way to introduce color and pattern with soft blue hues and polka-dot or stripe designs on durable canvas. These come with matching blue-painted hooks and are versatile for various rooms. The West Elm Tent Wall Pocket, found in the children's section, is described as whimsical and capable of adding character to any room. It is particularly envisioned for bathrooms to store hair tools, toiletries, and other necessities, providing both organization and a pop of color. The Amazon Boho Nursery Storage With 5 Large Woven Pockets stands out with its macrame detailing, adding texture to a room. This organizer features five main pockets and two additional top pockets, with an adhesive backing to prevent sagging and ensure stability. Finally, a Wayfair Overdoor Hanging Basket Organizer With Hook is presented, featuring a two-toned color scheme and detachable baskets. Each large basket can be separated into three individual units, making it adaptable for various storage needs in playrooms, bathrooms, closets, bedrooms, or pantries. The article concludes by emphasizing the value of exploring children's sections in home decor stores for unexpected and stylish storage solutions that are both pretty and practical, challenging the notion that functional organizers must sacrifice aesthetics. #HomeOrganization #OverDoorStorage #ChildrensDecor #InteriorDesign #SpaceSavingSolutions #StylishStorage #NurseryDecor #HomeDecor

Spanish studio Playoffice has introduced an innovative and playful gym within a family home, addressing the desire for an engaging indoor activity space for children. This design integrates a climbing area into a three-floor void, transforming a conventional living space into an interactive playground. The objective was to move away from typical workout room aesthetics, creating a vibrant and stimulating environment. The design features a striking blue climbing wall that spans the full height of the void, inviting children to ascend. The interior employs a distinct concrete texture alongside the bold blue color scheme, which contributes to a relaxing and fun atmosphere. The home gym is not just about climbing; it incorporates a circuit of exercises designed to enhance the coordination, strength, and balance of all family members. This approach fosters the healthy growth and development of children by providing diverse physical activities within the comfort and safety of their home. The project reimagines the concept of a home gym, moving beyond adult-centric fitness equipment to create a space that caters specifically to children's need for play and physical activity. The emphasis is on a holistic development through active engagement, ensuring that exercise is perceived as an enjoyable and integral part of daily life rather than a chore. Playoffice's design highlights how architectural interventions can significantly impact family dynamics and child development by providing dedicated spaces for imaginative and physical play. The colorful and dynamic interior, coupled with the functional climbing wall, serves as a central point for family interaction and physical challenges, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for the residents. #Playoffice #IndoorClimbingGym #HomeDesign #ChildrensPlayArea #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalInnovation #KidsActivity #PlayfulInteriors

Atlanta-based designer Kate Hayes, in collaboration with Krista Sharif, undertook a project 20 minutes outside of downtown Atlanta to create a personalized space for three children aged 8 to 14. The core philosophy driving the design was to ensure that the children, like their parents, had an environment reflective of their personalities and needs. The project involved transforming a section of the home into a versatile teen dream zone, encompassing a movie area, a game room, and an outdoor space, offering ample room for leisure and activities. Hayes employed a strategy of mixing colors and patterns in unconventional ways for the kids' space. A consistent color palette of blue, ochre, olive, and black was applied throughout the design, visible in features such as sleek cabinet fronts, a durable modern wood floor, and a ceiling painted in a matching shade. A Louis Poulsen pendant light was incorporated to add lightness, suspended near a custom sofa by Björk Studio. This sofa, upholstered in an indoor-outdoor Swiss cross fabric from C & C Milano, was adorned with unique pillows. Additionally, a Ducaroy leather floor chair provided a comfortable lounging spot, prioritizing both aesthetic appeal and practical durability, which was crucial given the active nature of a three-child household. To ensure the space met the children's specific requirements and interests, Hayes directly engaged with the younger generation. The two boys' enthusiasm for sports and their sister's interest in competitive gymnastics, alongside their collective enjoyment of board games, were factored into the design. A gallery wall was installed to showcase family photos from various adventures. Lacrosse sticks were creatively repurposed as decor, stored in a basket. A color-blocked cabinet featured a hidden door, offering the children the option to section off their area from the adjacent family room, thereby providing a sense of autonomy. Hayes emphasized that this subtle design feature spoke volumes about respecting the children's need for their own space, jokingly referring to it as a potential future “makeout zone.” The interior design continued into a vibrant ping-pong area, serving as a central hub illuminated by floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors, complemented by Cedar & Moss overhead lights. The District Eight ping-pong table was designed to be multifunctional, capable of transforming into a dining surface for casual gatherings. A fluted Hancock Fine Furniture credenza was included to store games like Pictionary and a mini fridge for beverages, supporting extended play sessions. For the outdoor patio, Hayes drew inspiration from boutique hotels in Los Angeles and Palm Springs, aiming to create a relaxed environment suitable for family interaction. The outdoor area featured a basketball half-court, where the eldest son could practice his lacrosse skills, and an open-air cooking zone equipped with a dining table, a refrigerator, and a Big Green Egg for grilling. A prominent feature of the backyard was a towering brick fireplace, painted in a dark charcoal hue to match the home's exterior, surrounded by heated chairs from Galanter & Jones. Hayes concluded that the ultimate goal was to provide the family with an ideal setting for spending quality time together, a sentiment that the children reportedly shared. #TeenSpace #GameRoom #OutdoorHangout #FamilyHomeDesign #KidsRooms #InteriorDesign #AtlantaDesign #CustomFurniture #FunctionalDesign

Tanieka Harris, the creator of This Borrowed Home, embarked on a project to design a personalized room for her then three-year-old son in their Cleveland rental home. Having felt that her previous residence lacked a dedicated space for him, she aimed to create a room that was truly tailored to his preferences. She allowed herself to live in the space for some time to understand its needs before beginning the design process in October, dedicating three months to gradually developing the room during her evenings and weekends. The inspiration for the room's central design element, stripes, came from Sarah Sherman Samuel's nursery design for her daughter, Clover. Given the limitations of a rental property, Harris opted for a non-permanent solution for the wall design. Instead of paint, she chose to use 2-inch gaffer tape to create the stripes on the existing beige walls. This method was an upgrade from her previous use of electrical tape in a stairwell, offering a sturdier application. She carefully applied the gaffer tape, using small spacers to ensure consistent spacing between each stripe. Harris demonstrated resourcefulness in furnishing the room by repurposing items she already owned. Her former all-white dresser was transformed with beige chalk paint to create stripes, blending it with the wall design. Her old vanity was given new life as her son’s desk, painted in his favorite color, red. Even a part of her son’s old crib was repurposed, becoming a hanging ladder on the wall for storage. This creative approach allowed her to achieve a unique and functional space without significant new purchases, an approach she described as "Frankensteined" the room. A key priority for Harris was that the room should reflect her son’s personality and preferences, rather than her own. She emphasized making it a space where he could "do his thing." His love for color was a significant factor in her design choices. A vibrant rug, won in a giveaway from eSale Rugs, featuring muted primary shades, became the foundational element for the room's color scheme. The gallery wall was thoughtfully curated with images that resonated with him, including a portrait of a young boy getting a haircut, which her son identified with, animal paintings from the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Open Access collection, and playful Lego prints. Now at four years old, her son enjoys a room designed specifically for him. He has a red desk for drawing, accessible book shelves, and a mirror placed at his height, fostering a sense of ownership and independence. Harris noted his active involvement throughout the design process, expressing excitement with each new addition. She observed that he genuinely enjoys spending time in his room, indicating the success of her personalized and creative design efforts. #KidsRooms #RentalFriendlyDecor #DIYHomeDecor #CreativeRepurposing #StripedWalls #PersonalizedSpaces #BudgetLiving #HomeTours

The children's room offers a unique opportunity for homeowners and architects to apply creative design solutions that encourage play, exploration, and learning. This article highlights 16 innovative children's rooms and play spaces that exemplify modern kids' room design concepts, ranging from practical reading nooks to adventurous climbing walls and indoor swings. These designs demonstrate how to integrate functionality with fun, creating engaging environments for children. Several examples illustrate these principles. One playroom effectively utilizes slanted ceilings in Beijing’s Starburst House, featuring mountain-shaped wall cushions that complement the architectural lines. An outdoor play cubby with a kid-sized deck was designed by FGR Architects for Bloomfield House in Victoria, Australia, offering a dedicated area for children's enjoyment. A Tribeca loft showcases a theatrical nursery with gray and yellow curtains that can be used to create a stage, adding a playful element to an otherwise sophisticated apartment. In Melbourne, the Tower House incorporates a netted children’s study, where Oxley netting allows kids to read and relax with views of the garden. A Wicker Park abode features a "rope room" designed by Perimeter Architects, presenting a unique challenge in using slack materials for an active play space. The home of Dwell founder Lara Hedberg Deam includes a child's room with bold patterns and an indoor swing, using Marimekko bedding to enhance the vibrant atmosphere. An environmentally friendly kids’ room in a Harlem townhouse features a custom play area with a reading nook, a loft bed with a secret passageway, and ample storage, all designed by a theatrical set designer. In New Jersey, a child's bedroom incorporates bridged bunk beds, a creative solution to connect two sleeping areas with a Venetian-style arched bridge. A Brooklyn brownstone conversion includes a Harry Potter-worthy play area under a staircase, complete with an egg-shaped nook and soft pebble pillows. Scenario Architecture designed a London Victorian terrace house with a children's bedroom featuring a climbing wall and a fireman's pole for accessing a hidden eave spot. In Los Angeles, a child’s bedroom is designed to resemble a home’s exterior, complete with custom carpeting, millwork, a reading nook under the stairs, a mini door, window, and a magnetic chalkboard wall. A cottage in the English countryside includes a plywood climbing wall in a child’s bedroom, emphasizing kid-friendly and affordable materials. An Austin bungalow renovation includes a green reading nook cleverly integrated into a dormer, providing a cozy space with treetop views. Architect Bergendy Cooke designed a kid-friendly home in Queenstown with a combination bunk bed and playhouse for her daughters, allowing for both independent and collaborative play. Another design features a reading nook accessed via a climbing wall and rope lead, adding an adventurous element to the room. Finally, an Orcas Island retreat includes a secret chute leading to a ball pit, fulfilling the owners' desire for a playful and adventurous environment for their children. #KidsRooms #ChildrensPlaySpaces #ModernDesign #InteriorDesign #PlayfulInteriors #CreativeKidsRooms #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #ReadingNooks

London-based designer Emma Stevenson believes that ceilings deserve as much attention as walls, flooring, and furnishings, advocating against the common practice of leaving them as plain white surfaces. This philosophy is evident in the vibrant and imaginatively designed bedrooms of her four children: Oscar (11), Georgia (10), Errol (8), and Teddy (6). After relocating to an elegant townhouse in Notting Hill in 2022, following a period of living in rentals, Stevenson prioritized involving her children in the design process, allowing them to personalize their spaces and reclaim a sense of stability. The result is a collection of four distinct and magical childhood escapes, each reflecting its occupant's personality and interests. For her daughter Georgia, who is captivated by ponies, Stevenson transformed Georgia's own drawings into bespoke wallpaper, a process she tailored by digitally adjusting the color palette to exclude primary colors she disliked without her daughter noticing. This custom approach allowed for a truly unique and personal space. The two younger boys, Errol and Teddy, shared a desire for a jungle-themed room. Stevenson presented them with three wallpaper options, and they unanimously selected a hand-painted safari motif. Oscar, the eldest, opted for a personalized mural, drawing inspiration from an online design but customizing it with his favorite characters and foods, which was then brought to life by a professional artist. Stevenson also incorporates vintage elements, often scouring Etsy and eBay for unique, end-of-roll wallpapers. This strategy ensures originality, as seen in the bright blue bathroom featuring an 80s-era Mr. Men print. She notes that vintage papers often have a distinct textural quality compared to modern options. To protect this unique wallpaper, a piece of glass will be installed behind the sink. In the same bathroom, to address existing yellowing laminate tiles and a quirky layout, Stevenson applied jaunty rainbow stripes directly onto the floor after a fresh white base coat, demonstrating a cost-effective hack for transforming surfaces. The bedrooms feature beige wool carpets with subtle flecks of blue, red, yellow, and green yarns, designed to naturally complement the diverse color schemes of each room. Stevenson prefers natural fibers for children's rooms, acknowledging they may not be the most hard-wearing but appreciate their organic aging process. Above, ceilings are given special treatment. Oscar’s room boasts a vibrant blue painted ceiling, while the younger boys' room incorporates whimsical light fixtures to draw the eye upwards. Georgia's room, however, features a truly unique element: a _plissé soleil_ (sunray pleats) finish on the ceiling, created using the same pinkish-red ticking stripe fabric found in her bed niche. This intricate technique, reminiscent of designs Stevenson encountered in her childhood in France, was executed by a commissioned artisan and had a remarkable effect on Georgia's sleep patterns, highlighting the profound impact of interior design on well-being. #KidsRooms #InteriorDesign #CustomWallpaper #CeilingDesign #ChildrensBedrooms #ThemedRooms #VintageDecor #DIYHomeDecor #CreativeSpaces

The article showcases three distinct approaches to designing kid-friendly spaces within homes, featuring examples from Louisville-area residences. Each case study provides insights into how homeowners tailored their living environments to accommodate younger family members, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The first example focuses on Karista Hannah's home in Norton Commons, where the family prioritized indoor play areas due to a smaller yard. Karista, an interior designer, designed a custom playhouse complete with a window, functional door, and a slide. The basement also includes a climbing wall and swings, proving popular with children. The overall design of the basement family room, while suitable for family time with a large couch and projector, cleverly integrates these dedicated play features, maximizing the use of indoor space for active kids. The design elements such as floating shelves, shiplap accents, and quartz countertops in the kitchen, along with reclaimed beams and built-ins in the living room, contribute to a cohesive and stylish interior throughout the house. The second case highlights Rick and Pam Gadjen's remodeled New Albany home, where the grandchildren's needs were central to the renovation. The attic was transformed into a 'dormitory-style' space with skylights, a blue ceiling, and window nooks, providing ample room for both sleeping and playing. Beds line the sides of the room, complemented by shelves for books and toys. The outdoor space also features a custom-made boulder for climbing, inspired by a trip to Denver, demonstrating a creative and personalized approach to outdoor play equipment. The home's overall design blends old and new, incorporating vintage wallpaper and an antique Hoosier cabinet in a reconfigured kitchen alongside new white cabinets and granite countertops. The third instance features Jeff and Nicole Zoglmann's new build in Norton Commons, designed with low maintenance and family-friendliness in mind for their growing family. Practical choices include Astroturf outdoors, eliminating the need for yard work, and large built-in cabinets in the family room for quick storage of children's items. The home incorporates multiple dedicated play areas, including a playroom in the basement and another in the upstairs loft. The coastal-inspired design includes deep rooflines, custom railings, wood beadboard on porch ceilings, and mahogany front doors. The kitchen boasts marble countertops, a large island, and a walk-in pantry, while the master bath features a standalone tub and marble countertops in all upstairs bathrooms. Despite the challenge of integrating desired spaces within specific square footage, the outcome is an efficient and dream-realized home that prioritizes family life and ease of upkeep. #KidsBedrooms #Playrooms #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyFriendlyHome #HomeRemodel #CustomPlayhouse #OutdoorPlay #LowMaintenanceHome

This article provides 30 inspiring ideas for designing children's playrooms, emphasizing the importance of creating dedicated, kid-friendly spaces to foster independent and creative play. Experts highlight that children with a designated play zone are more likely to engage in self-directed play, build essential skills like problem-solving and critical thinking, and even take ownership of cleaning up their toys. Rachel Rothman, chief technologist at the Good Housekeeping Institute, stresses that well-designed play spaces and toys are crucial for children's learning and empowerment. The design ideas cover various aspects, starting with organization. Anne Gillyard, a playroom designer and co-founder of grOH! Playroom, and Becky Thomas, founder of Playgroup, both advocate for clear organizational systems using bins, baskets, and shelving to make toys accessible and visible, which helps children initiate and sustain their play ideas. Open shelving is particularly recommended for displaying motivating toys, allowing children independence in their choices. The article suggests incorporating playful elements such as swings, noting that rhythmic movements can help children regulate emotions, as explained by psychologist Rebecca Hershberg. Another creative idea involves displaying children's artwork as decor, which Gillyard states boosts confidence and encourages creativity, especially when framed and arranged as a gallery wall. Color and themes are also central to playroom design. The article encourages using activity rugs to provide structure within play and adding blocks and cars to promote creative engagement. It recommends not shying away from vibrant colors and interesting patterns to infuse spaces with energy and visual appeal, using examples like bright ceilings and geometric rugs. Wall murals, ranging from nature-inspired to geometric or custom designs, are presented as a way to instantly add creativity. Chalkboard walls are highlighted as a practical option for artistic expression, allowing children to process feelings through drawing. For a calmer aesthetic, the article suggests pastel palettes and limited color schemes. Space optimization is addressed through ideas like converting closets or maximizing attic space into functional play areas. These solutions offer children quiet, enclosed spaces to regulate sensory input and engage in calm play, with suggestions for adding elements like tents or comfortable seating. The article also provides tips for creating multi-functional spaces, such as combining play areas with study spots, and incorporating daybeds for various activities. Ultimately, the article advocates for thoughtful design that caters to children's developmental needs and interests, providing tools for learning and imaginative exploration in spaces that are both appealing and practical. #KidsPlayroom #PlayroomDesign #ChildrensSpaces #HomeDecor #CreativePlay #InteriorDesign #ChildDevelopment #ToyStorage #KidsActivities

Designing engaging and functional spaces for children of varying ages presents a unique challenge, as these rooms must appeal to both parents' practical needs and children's desire for fun and creativity. This article showcases three distinct approaches to achieving this balance: a vibrant teen hangout, a versatile craft room, and a magical multi-age playroom, each offering insights into successful design strategies. The article explores how to create spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly practical, ensuring they evolve with the children's growth. The first example is a teen hangout designed by Cami Luppino and Alana Irwin of Lulu Home, which prioritizes a colorful and casual atmosphere suitable for a teenager and their friends. The design incorporates punchy colors, fun accessories, unique vintage finds, and playful surfboard art. A key element is providing ample seating areas for gatherings and distinct play zones to keep teens entertained, such as a custom graffiti ping-pong table. Designers emphasize involving teens in the design process to personalize the space, making it both fun and sophisticated enough to grow with them. Practical considerations include using at least three complementary colors, ensuring at least three comfortable seating options, and incorporating three distinct play zones to make it a teen's dream space. The second space highlighted is a creative craft room by Claire Paquin of Clean Design Partners. This room is designed to allow children to freely create without constant pressure to clean up, providing a dedicated and permanent creative hub. The craft room, located off a foyer, was developed for a boy and a girl with a significant age difference. A deep, slate teal color was chosen to stimulate creativity without being too juvenile, adding a touch of sophistication. Essential considerations for a craft room include selecting age-appropriate furniture that can adapt as children grow, with smaller tables and chairs for young children and larger work surfaces for older ones. Designing for the child's age also means accommodating varying project sizes and work styles, potentially including vertical workspaces like easels. Effective storage and organization are paramount, with built-ins featuring a mix of drawers, open cubbies, and cabinet doors to keep supplies accessible and tidy. Creative placement is also discussed, with basements being a common choice, but also suggestions for converting smaller areas like offices, staircase landings, or large closets. The third featured space is a "Pretty and Playful" playroom by Denise Davies and Karri Bowen-Poole of Smart D2 Playrooms, which transformed a three-car garage into a magical environment for both a younger son and two older girls. The designers aimed to create an art studio combined with ample open space for physical activities like running, climbing, and jumping. Key design principles include a thoughtful layout that customizes activities, furnishings, and materials to the children's ages, interests, talents, and needs. They advocate for a sensory-rich environment that encourages children to engage all five senses. Organizational systems are critical, featuring age-appropriate toys and materials stored in accessible, inviting, and labeled containers. The playroom also incorporates various educational stations to facilitate different activities and ensure children can easily find necessary materials. A forward-thinking design approach ensures the space can easily adapt as the children mature, such as including challenging rock-wall areas that remain engaging for years. The formula for a perfect playroom encompasses thoughtful design and layout, a sensory-rich environment, effective organization, diverse education stations, and fun colors. #PlayroomDesign #KidsSpaces #TeenHangout #CraftRoom #ChildrensInteriorDesign #HomeOrganization #YouthfulDecor #FunctionalDesign #CreativeSpaces

Jessica and Andrew Turner, parents to Gabriel, Liberty, Joy, and Creed, sought to transform a spare room above their garage in Birmingham, Alabama, into an organized and inspiring play zone for their children. Jessica, Chief Operating Officer at Alabama Chanin, prioritized a streamlined design that would encourage creativity and address the pervasive issue of scattered Lego pieces. She enlisted Karla and Ray Graves of Raka Home, known for their expertise in creating stylish and functional family spaces, to realize this vision. The Graves, who are also parents to four children, specialize in crafting custom-designed elements that maximize space and organization, a skill honed by their own family's growth and spatial needs. The design brief included creating a media area to conceal electronics, distinct zones for various activities like drawing and coloring, and dedicated storage for toys such as magnet tiles, dress-up clothes, dollhouses, comic books, and Lego. Jessica's overarching goal was to make their home fun without being overly prescriptive about where items should be stored. The Graves' approach centered on a balance of playfulness and practical problem-solving. Ray, a woodworker, crafted custom organizational solutions, while Karla, an interior designer, provided the spatial vision. Understanding the multi-faceted needs of the Turners' extended family, the playroom was designed to evolve into a guest room and a part-time office. This multifunctional layout challenges the conventional idea of a room serving only one purpose. Ray's observation of the children's constant reading inspired the creation of a plush, round reading nook, which became a popular spot for overnight guests. Magnetic wood panels along one wall allow the room to be reconfigured, revealing hidden storage, a velvet reading nook with built-in bookshelves, a TV and game station with a floating console, pull-out bins, and spacious drawers beneath a daybed. Beyond storage, the room was designed for dynamic play. Rope swings, easily detachable when not in use, and climbing-wall steps cater to active play, utilizing the room's trapezoidal architecture. The most notable feature is a 19-foot-long jute rug that conceals two trap-door twin beds, complete with separate storage for bedding, installed directly into the floor. These beds, inspired by Batman's hidden features, are accessed with a magnetized key and often serve as a makeshift trampoline park. A hidden door within the rock wall also provides storage for dollhouses and accessories, doubling as a hide-and-seek spot. The success of the playroom demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating healthy boundaries and organization into design. The children, including the youngest, Creed, have embraced the organizational system, understanding where each item belongs. This structured yet playful environment fosters a sense of accomplishment and pride in maintaining their space, making the "magic" of the design both enchanting and practical. The project, initially published in the Kids 2020 issue under the title “Practical Magic,” highlights how thoughtful design can meet both aesthetic and functional demands for a busy family home. #KidsRooms #SmallSpaces #HomeOrganization #CustomDesign #MultiFunctionalSpaces #PlayroomDesign #HiddenStorage #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome

The Rowan is the newest tiny house model introduced by the online marketplace, Tiny House Listings. This 34-foot-long (10-meter) tiny house distinguishes itself with a useful porch area and an expansive interior layout, uniquely arranged on a single floor. While its length is comparable to many North American tiny houses, its increased width of 10 feet (3 meters) — 1.5 feet wider than the standard 8.5 feet (2.6 meters) — contributes significantly to a more spacious and home-like feel inside. However, this extra width necessitates a permit for towing on public roads in the USA, making it less ideal for frequent relocation. The Rowan is constructed on a six-axle trailer, a notable feature that suggests a design choice to distribute weight effectively. The exterior is finished with engineered board and batten wood, complemented by a metal roof, ensuring durability and a contemporary aesthetic. The interior boasts drywall finishes, providing a clean and modern canvas for residents. Access to the home is through a 6-foot (1.8-meter) porch, which leads into the living room via double glass doors. The living area is well-lit with generous glazing and is designed to accommodate a sofa, a TV, and a cabinet, creating a comfortable space for relaxation. Adjacent to the living room is the kitchen, which is equipped with an induction stove and a sink. It offers ample cabinetry and designated space for additional appliances, catering to practical cooking needs. A breakfast bar with seating for two further enhances the kitchen's functionality, serving as a casual dining or workspace. Moving deeper into the tiny house, past the living and kitchen areas, is the bathroom. This facility includes a shower, a sink, a flushing toilet, and some storage, providing essential amenities within a compact footprint. One of the most significant design aspects of the Rowan is its single-floor layout, particularly evident in the bedroom. Unlike many tiny houses that feature loft bedrooms requiring occupants to crawl, the Rowan’s bedroom offers ample headroom, allowing residents to stand and move around comfortably. Located at the opposite end of the house from the entrance, the bedroom is designed to accommodate a queen-sized bed. It also includes a large built-in closet and washer/dryer hookups, maximizing convenience and storage within the limited space. The Rowan is currently available for purchase at US$92,000. This model aligns with Tiny House Listings' recent offerings, which include the larger duplex-style TinyPlex and the more budget-friendly Cortado, showcasing the marketplace's diverse range of tiny home solutions. The Rowan represents a practical yet comfortable option for individuals or couples seeking a tiny house experience with an emphasis on interior spaciousness and a semi-outdoor living component provided by its porch. #TinyHouses #TinyHouseDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #MobileHomes #AffordableHousing #CompactLiving #MinimalistLiving #OutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation

The article focuses on creating engaging and functional playrooms for children, guided by Karri Bowen-Poole, founder of Smart Playrooms in Westchester. Bowen-Poole emphasizes that the key to a perfect playroom lies in functional storage, engaging activity stations, and a modern, crisp color palette. Her company specializes in designing educational play spaces that cater to both children and parents. For a project designed for a 1- and 3-year-old, Smart Playrooms began with a new construction, providing a blank canvas. Bowen-Poole highlights that the size of the space is less critical than its layout, storage solutions, and the thoughtful selection of activity zones. She advises that for smaller areas, it is more effective to create two well-executed zones rather than attempting to squeeze in too many, which can lead to a cluttered and less engaging environment. This particular project, spanning approximately 1,000 square feet, allowed for the incorporation of several activity zones, including an art studio, a basketball/sport zone, a climbing and gymnastic area, a TV and storage section, a playhouse for pretend play, and a dedicated reading nook with ample book storage. Color selection plays a significant role in the playroom's design, influencing children's behavior and mood. The inspiration for the color palette came from artist peel-and-stick murals available through projectplayroom.com, which were then used to guide the selection of storage, carpet, bins, and furnishings. One such mural was integrated into the physical play zone, transforming it into a climbing wall that offered both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. Bowen-Poole prefers gender-neutral colors that deviate from traditional primary colors, as these choices can impact how children interact with the space. She explains that shades of blue and teal promote quiet play, focus, and creativity, while whites evoke a sense of calm and openness. Pinks are chosen to foster feelings of love and kindness, and greens are used to encourage a renewed, tranquil, and refreshed state. In addition to active play zones, the design incorporates quiet areas, such as a custom circular reading nook. This 'Chill Zone' is intended to encourage reading, thinking, and relaxation, providing a cozy space for children to unwind, daydream, and engage in storytelling. Bowen-Poole stresses the importance of designing play spaces with longevity in mind, ensuring they remain relevant and beneficial as children grow. Her philosophy centers on creating environments that help children develop creativity and problem-solving skills through thoughtfully designed activities. She believes that a dedicated playroom empowers children, making them feel confident and valued, and encourages more frequent play and social interaction with friends. The article concludes by emphasizing the overall significance of providing children with a personalized play space, regardless of its size. Karri Bowen-Poole of Smart Playrooms is identified as the designer for the featured project, with Hardware and Mural sourced from Project Playroom. #PlayroomDesign #KidsPlaySpace #HomeDecor #ChildrensInteriors #EducationalPlayrooms #WestchesterHome #SmartPlayrooms #ChildDevelopment #InteriorDesign

Children's environments significantly influence their imagination and creativity, necessitating visually stimulating spaces. This article presents ten adaptable and creative decorating ideas designed to foster an inspiring room for a child's growth, balancing style with practicality. These concepts are suitable for various ages, making it easier to maintain an engaging and functional space over time. One design idea involves a study nook crafted from charcoal laminate by Laminex, which provides a striking contrast against a vibrant pink wall. This setup, featured in a functional family home, demonstrates how specific color and material choices can define an area, offering both utility and aesthetic appeal within a child's bedroom. Another approach highlights the creation of a playful cubby nook within a refreshed Edwardian home. This custom-made plywood cubby, shared with a Plyroom bed, is filled with cushions and books, serving as a private and imaginative retreat. Lauren Li of Sisällä Interior Design emphasizes its role as a great hiding spot, underscoring the importance of incorporating elements that encourage play and privacy for children. Melissa Bonney, director at The Designory, advocates for inspiring and functional rooms to encourage children's investment in their personal space. An example is a bedroom decorated in a calming soft grey-green, complemented by a small desk area. This design promotes creativity and a tranquil atmosphere, showcasing the psychological impact of color and dedicated workspaces. A Japanese-inspired home in Melbourne extends its serene aesthetic into a girl’s room, featuring a unique portal window that frames nature. The room employs a soft pink and light timber palette, creating a calming and inspiring environment that blends minimalist design with natural elements. For a family home in the NSW Southern Highlands, a 'refined but sweet' brief was executed through floral wallpaper and a plush white armchair, adding elegance and comfort to the child's room. This design illustrates how classic and gentle touches can create a sophisticated yet child-friendly space. Kyal and Kara's dream family home on the NSW Central Coast showcases a kids' room with natural tones, promoting a calm and cozy feel. Color is introduced through decor, and a bunk bed painted in Taubmans Endure ‘Charcoal Grey’ grounds the space, combining neutral backdrops with vibrant accents. A more subdued traveler's theme is achieved in another kid's room through rustic airplane models and a large yacht model on a bookshelf. This design suggests a subtle narrative for the space, encouraging imagination without overwhelming the senses with excessive thematic elements. In a luxurious holiday home in Byron Bay, a shared kids' room features striking wallpaper and timber ladders connecting a ground-floor play area to an elevated sleeping zone. This design emphasizes the integration of distinct activity zones and the use of bold patterns for a playful yet sophisticated look. Finally, a renovated Federation home in Sydney includes a beautifully appointed third bedroom for visiting grandchildren. Elegant furnishings and matching bedheads upholstered in Zanskar Indian toile fabric from Seneca Textiles illustrate how traditional styles can be adapted to create a welcoming and refined space for younger guests, blending period character with fresh new features. #KidsRoomDecorating #CreativeSpaces #ChildrensBedrooms #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #FunctionalKidsRooms #PlayfulDesign #StudyNooks #FamilyHomes #ChildDevelopment