How to Create Stylish Kid-Friendly Rooms
Family-friendly design is truly function driven, but it also needs to marry seamlessly with aesthetics, quality and longevity. Learn how to create stylish kid-friendly rooms in this HouzzTV video:
The living room featured in this video in the first room a visitor sees upon entering and is also a very central part of the home. With furnishings that are functional and multi-purpose, the room can be used for a family movie night, game night, or an adult get-together. A comfortable two-sided chaise lounge allows you to either watch TV or converse with other people in the group.
When it comes to storage for kids, it doesn’t have to be open cubbies with bright colorful storage bins. In a formal living room, you can have case pieces that are low to the ground with easy access for the kids to get into; once everything is cleaned up, it goes back to looking like a nice clean space. Chairs should have durable fabric and be easy for kids to get up and get down. Indoor/outdoor rugs made from polypropylene can be hosed off outside. Removable floor tile is another option where damaged tile can be easily replaced.
Fostering independence is another important design factor. Kids should be able to take out and put back their items, put their shoes on and put their coats away when they get home. A popular trend is having a mudroom with open seating, but in reality the space ends up being very messy. A better option is closed storage with low hooks and handles where kids have a personal place to put their items. An under-cabinet beverage center (as opposed to a large refrigerator) allows kids to get snacks on their own.
The renovated walk-out basement featured in this video has wall sconces, a wall covered in removable wallpaper that has storage cubbies and bins, and a chalkboard wall and play table. A second renovated has family-friendly elements like comfortable sofas, an indoor/outdoor rug, upholstered ottoman, a built-in with barn doors concealing the TV, an arts and crafts table with colorful chairs, and an additional built-in with storage cubes and a bench.
