Our homes serve more than a functional purpose - they create memories. But adding children can add even more chaos, so creating spaces that work for all may feel daunting at times! Have no fear, fellow family warriors; designing one with function as well as fun will ensure it serves its intended function for generations of all ages alike!
Get Smart about Zoning
Gone are the days of rigid rooms; instead, consider your living space a collection of zones that can adapt to various needs. Here's how you can zone like an expert:
Play Zone: Create an area, like part of your living room or playroom, dedicated solely for toys and creative exploration. Consider investing in low, sturdy furniture that will withstand forts or art projects such as ottomans with storage compartments which double up as seating/toy boxes/cubbies to reduce clutter and keep play going without interruptions from adults!
Family Hub: Your Family Hub should serve as the heart of your home, offering socializing, movie nights and board game battles for socialization, movie-watching or board game battles. Choose a comfortable sofa with machine-washable slipcovers (spills happen!) as this space should define itself while offering comfy spots to playtime! Consider adding an area rug as well to define it further and add comforting play spaces within.
Create the Calming Corner: Every family should have its own relaxing corner, such as a comfortable armchair and bookshelves stocked with family favourites that serve as the ideal spot for quiet time or as personal sanctuary spaces for both kids and adults alike. This could serve both shared space for quiet time as well as personal sanctuary spots.
Storage Solutions for Everyday Need
Furniture that multitasks can make life simpler in smaller apartments or families on tight budgets, from futons that convert to guest beds to coffee tables with hidden compartments for storage purposes or an expandable dining table that hosts game night gatherings. They're your secret weapons! Clutter can quickly take over any home filled with children.
That's where strategic storage comes into play
Utilize wall space by installing shelves, cabinets and pegboards with shelves for toys, books and artwork to display on. This keeps things off of the floor while adding some flair and character!
Built-In Bench with Storage Compartments: Consider installing built-in benches equipped with hidden storage compartments along window seats or hallways, providing extra seating while hiding toys or blankets tidily away in one neat location. This solution offers convenient seating while being cost effective as toys can remain out of sight neatly stored away in their place.
Label It Up: Establish clear bins and containers with labels so that everyone knows where everything should go; this not only simplifies tidying, but it can encourage responsibility in older children as well. Don't Forget Fun Factor!
An effective space doesn't need to be dull! Here's how you can add playful charm
Chalkboard creativity: make one wall of the playroom or kitchen an ever-evolving chalkboard for creative expression, grocery lists or inspiring messages!
Interactive Accents: Bring interactive elements like a climbing wall (perfect for expelling excess energy!), cozy teepee for reading adventures or magnetic board to display artwork to bring their space alive with playful elements!
DIY Decor: Get crafty with your family! Craft an art gallery wall featuring pieces made by children or hang colourful paper lanterns as festive decor.
Thinking About Safety First With children around, safety must always come first - here are a few key factors for consideration
Anchor It Down: To prevent furniture like bookcases and dressers from tipping over accidentally, secure them securely against the wall by anchoring or anchoring down their corners or edges to the wall with anchor pins or nails.
Soft Upholstery: When selecting furniture in areas where children play, try selecting pieces with rounder edges and soft upholstery - particularly where little ones might play!
Durable and Easy to Clean: For durability and ease of cleaning, select materials which can withstand spills while being easy to maintain - such as washable fabrics, stain-resistant rugs or wipeable surfaces.
Personalizing and Comfort
Every truly functional and enjoyable space should reflect its inhabitants. Give each member of your family their space by adding decorative accents such as throw pillows, family photos or artwork that speaks to their interests and shows off your individual styles.
Comfort should always come first! Add cozy throws, plenty of soft seating options and great lighting fixtures for an inviting space that encourages restful sleeping.
Designing for families means crafting spaces that encourage connections, creativity and joy. Through flexibility, storage considerations and playful touches you can design spaces to meet everyone's needs - unleash your inner designer today to start making memories that last a lifetime!
