Creating a Playroom That Will Grow With Your Kid(s)

As an interior decorator in Brooklyn, I’ve helped many families design fun, functional kids’ playrooms. Though my partner and I have no kids of our own, we have plenty of nieces and nephews of varying ages with a variety of interests. We love spending time in their play spaces and bonding with them while visiting, and also make sure to leave ample “clean-up time” at the end.

Our interior design studio in New York has not only learned a thing or two about incorporating play spaces into homes this way but also asked parents and kids/young adults what was important to them as well. Here is a sample of what we found. I’m thinking you may find at least some of this useful when creating a playroom that will grow your kid!

• Storage. Toys will come and go, and change in shape, size, and popularity, so you will want to choose multiple storage options that are flexible and “grow” with the kids. Toy storage organizer(s) should match the room, fit in size, and be easily accessible for the little ones. They should have different-sized bins that can hold a variety of different toys and games.
• Bookshelves. Books are the one item your children will always have, from the time they are born until they leave the house. When they are young, having bookshelves that are low and easy to reach is important—and as the book collection grows, add shelving height as well. Using an entire bookcase or a standard and bracket system that allows for growth are both options. Be sure that they are both anchored in a sturdy fashion, however, since the little ones do like to climb!
• Chalkboard Paint Wall. Having a wall where the kids can express their artistic talents without having crayon marks in the dining room wall is a great way for them to grow their creative side. Chalkboard paint is a terrific way to achieve this. One wall or even a part of a wall painted this way will give them free license to draw on a large scale and enjoy themselves.
• Consider All Types of Play. Make sure there are appropriate surfaces for all ages and imaginations. A table for activities like building blocks and coloring books is great, but ample floor space can also do the trick. When it comes to floors, carpets can provide a comfortable surface to lie on, but they can also be a magnet for stains and allergens. Consider area rugs rather than carpets since they are easier to replace. Better yet, consider rubber playroom mats. They are easy to clean, soft, and replaceable. They also come in fun colors and shapes.
• Use All Spaces Available. If you don’t have enough room for a dedicated playroom, consider doubling up on some of the space you do have. Use part of your child’s room. Consider using part of the den or living room, making a playspace that can be stored away when the company is coming over.
• ABC: Always Be Careful. Make sure the area has childproof safety features like outlet covers, stairway gates, within earshot of where adults are or use monitors, window guards, etc. Think like the little one you once were. If you could have gotten into it, they very well might. Safeguard against it.
• Make it a Music Room. You are already exposing your little ones to reading and drawing, why not music as well? Get them interested in the arts as early as possible! With all that is available with music online today, make use of options that offer music for the kids.