Designing for Kids, and YOU TOO
As design professionals, we go to a lot of homes with families. Almost without exception, we notice that the kids and even pets have free reign pretty much all over the house and the parents don’t even have one relaxing and fun space for themselves (aside from a sofa spot in front of their TV or laptop). Parents are their own last priority. I propose that your home can be super fun and relaxing for everyone, including YOU, with a few changes. We have made these changes for numerous families that hire us and they are thrilled with the results!
Here’s what will make your home an oasis for every member of the family:
Create a space for kids’play that is really organized for ease of finding toys. There should also be a simple way to put them all away. Use tons of baskets and a closet with shelves if possible. If you have a dedicated playroom, great! If not, a den is a perfect place to do this as well. Also, have a section of the garage with bins for outdoor toys for both kids and pets.
Have a nook for pets to sleep and eat that isn’t right in the middle of the kitchen. An attractive pet bed that can be tucked away and is easy to wash can be stashed in a less-obvious place where they like to sleep. If you have one, drape your dog crate with a beautiful (but inexpensive) coordinating throw that is soft and inviting.
Create hiding places for toys in your living room where you can toss things and put away in the morning. A storage ottoman and baskets are great ways to keep toys contained, out of site and off the floor. You can then relax and enjoy the space at night once it’s quiet. The same applies for homework mess—have a dedicated drawer, basket or shelf for each child’s homework papers either in their room or in your living space and have them put everything away at the end of the evening.
Rotate kids’ art -- displayed in one or two places in your house. A couple of frames that are easy to change out and perhaps a hanging wall in the playroom/den will be fine. When you switch out an item, put it in a dedicated portolio that you have for each child if it deserves to be kept. That way, each kid has a keepsake of their best art when they want to see it.
Now have an escape! Make sure that you have at least one place in your home where you can escape and where kids’ toys are not allowed to be left. Here are some ideas for your oasis:
For many, it will be your bedroom. Set it up beautifully and luxuriously! Add a comfy chair, chaise, or sofa near a window if possible. If the kids come in with toys, make a rule that they need to always be brought back out for your own sanity!
A spare room that can also serve as an office, hobby room, or guest room can be a great oasis. You may not escape all the time with small children, but at least you will have a space that is all yours. When you have time, you deserve a place to enjoy your favorite hobby or book. The more it’s set up to encourage activities that don’t involve a screen, the better.
If you can also create a cozy outdoor space just for you, all the better! It is amazing how an outdoor hammock or comfy chair or chaise can make you feel like you’re on vacation, even if it’s just for a short break! Enjoy…