Form and Function: Designing A Playroom
We love a styled out home, but what about when there’s children involved who literally challenge every design choice we want to make? The challenge for most playrooms is the balance between stylish and practical. While a stylish playroom is often the parents dream, as it can really add to or take away from the aesthetics of the home, its primary purpose is to provide a solid foundation to support our child’s ability to play - and learn through playing. Here’s how we’ve struck a balance between style and function when it comes to playrooms.
A quick note - a playroom can be its own separate room if space allows, but it can also simply be their bedroom. The important part is creating a way for kids to feel like they have their own space, regardless of size.
Make It Personal
If moving into a new property with a toddler, it’s the perfect opportunity to create a space that is all for them. One popular practice that can be super charming and much appreciated by the kiddo is to set up designs and stencils that spell out their name. Spell out their name in large wooden letters to automatically create a place that is their home. Making it personal is the best way for them to feel ownership of their space, which helps let down boundaries and open up potential.
Have Storage
If you’re Type A, coming to terms with the large amount of horrifically colored toys can be a challenge. For us, it came down to letting the kiddo make his mess and countering with a quick way to tidy up. Storage bins are incredibly useful because they can be mixed in with the aesthetics of the space, but provide easy access storage solutions. For example underfloor storage (which is amazing not just for kids) makes minimal work for the parent. For kids who love making a mess, toys can easily be swept into this nifty underfloor storage, making for a quick and simple solution common - especially if you are in a rush (and who isn’t with kids).
Think About Soft Mats
For younger children who like nothing more than to bounce around, soft mats can make a massive difference, not just to your children, but to peace of mind as a parent. For those kids who like to climb all over wardrobes and beds soft mats relieves fears of injury and gives them something soft to land on.
Modern Furnishings
If the kiddos are getting to the point where they want to work on projects, modern furniture where they can sit down, focus, and relax are a great way to tie in the aesthetic from the rest of the house - but in a miniature way. There are fantastic modern lounge chairs that can be upholstered that aren't just comfortable, but look fantastic in equal measure. If revamping your home, this is the perfect opportunity to think about what will support them in their development.
