Kids Play Area
At our interior design studio, we believe that a successful play area should spark joy, creativity, and curiosity while being as sustainable and functional as possible. Anyone with kids knows the importance of a play area which can be transformed to a youth retreat once they hit a certain age, especially one which ignites curiosity and learning. We have been creating an upstairs open plan play area with the functionality of guest overflow sleepovers for our Clients' growing family.
This key space which will be frequently used by multiple toddlers, in addition to visiting family and friends, is the second heart of the home. As such, the criteria was straight forward:
The space needs to incorporate the vertical, whilst hiding any clutter and mess, as it is an open area
It needs to spark joy, creativity and curiosity for the regular littlies
Majority is to be sustainable or be re-loved
For functionality it needs to include reading and crafts, however also an area for overflow guest sleepovers
As we are well versed in what kids generally enjoy, we have been able to create a functional and engaging space which is easy on the eye. We did this by creating zones such as a reading zone, a craft corner, an artwork display wall, and a free-play zone which could be used for various activities from building towers with Connetix tiles to imaginative play with toys.
wall mural inspo
Incorporate the Vertical
When designing a play area in an open space, it's important to incorporate the vertical to hide any clutter and mess. We placed a small bookshelf in the reading zone, however also have a container of books in storage for rotation. You will note, there is some shelving which includes a pegboard and storage for craft items, in addition to displaying some beautiful toys. The wall storage also includes a cubby shelf with baskets to hide the activities. And lastly, we decided to incorporate a canopy hanging as the focal point to the reading zone which could be doubled up as a cubby house, as this littlie adores reading and playing hide and seek.
Spark Joy and Creativity
We firmly believe creating a play area that sparks joy and creativity is essential for your children's development. This could include items such as a chalkboard wall for drawing and creating art, a climbing wall for developing gross motor skills, or a reading nook for quiet time. You could also consider a dress-up area, a sensory table filled with sand or water, or a play kitchen for imaginative play. A treehouse or a slide could also be a fun addition if space allows.
For this space, because it does need to double as an overflow sleepover area we have stuck with the 3 main zones being the reading zone, a craft zone which can display their artwork, and the free-play zone for imaginations to run wild. We have also designed this space to be colourful with a custom wallpaper (and yes, it's a peel and stick), handmade colours latex floor cushions, and a simple rug to define the space.
Floor cushion ideas
Encourage Curiosity
Encouraging curiosity and learning is also important for ones development, and the play area is the perfect place to do this. We have integrated curiosity through books, puzzles, and educational games that will spark their little ones imagination and encourage them to explore and learn. The table will also double as a nature table, where they can examine rocks, leaves, and other natural items, promoting curiosity and an interest in science and the natural world. The craft table we chose can also double as a sensory table when the weather requires indoor play.
Sustainable and Repurposed Furniture
Incorporating sustainable and repurposed furniture is a great way to make your play area eco-friendly and cost-effective. One can consider using items such as reclaimed wood bookcases, upcycled storage crates, or vintage play kitchen sets. You could also incorporate natural materials such as bamboo or cork for flooring or rugs. Not only is this better for the environment, but it also adds character and uniqueness to your play area.
The family undertook an activity of giving a new life to their existing cubby shelf by painting it "sun valley" and "dark green velvet" by Taubmans. Whilst it may not be a professional job, it was the bonding time which was important to them and their toddler got to have a hand in the space by picking the colours. This colour will also tie into their little ones room (we have something super fun planned for this!) and is a colour which isn't age defined.
Functionality
This play area should be functional (tick), as well as fun (tick) and allow it to be used as a sleepover overflow area. We haven't incorporated aspects which cannot be easily relocated (i.e. tables, floor cushions etc.) when there needs to be a space for sleepover overflow. As there is already a guest room, this is only for any additional people staying, albeit rare, or for day naps for nephews and nieces currently. This space will be adaptable to older ages with different activities and crafts available, in addition to adding things like a TV for when they're old enough.
Designing a sustainable and functional play area for a young growing family is all about creating a space that sparks joy, creativity, and curiosity while being eco-friendly and cost-effective. By incorporating the vertical, using sustainable and repurposed furniture, encouraging curiosity, and ensuring functionality, you can create a space that will inspire and delight your growing family. At our interior design studio, we specialize in creating unique and functional play areas for growing families. Contact us today to start designing your family's dream play space!
