Creating Awesome Playrooms For Everyone’s Sanity

Creating Awesome Playrooms For Everyone’s Sanity

July 30, 2024

Photo: Kids’ room with custom mural at The Winettka Contemporary Luxury Home

Grandkids in town this summer? Wish there was any surface not covered in toys and kid chaos? Were kids always this messy? What if there was a designated space where the kids could have fun without disrupting the entire home?! We get this request often during the summer, and we are happy to help create an epic playroom where kids can do their thing without messing with your things quite as much. Here is what I learned from doing this time and time again. Start with the layout and flow of the room. Design the space to have distinct zones for different activities, such as a reading area, a craft station, and an active play section. Ensure there is enough open floor space for free play and movement. This kind of zoned layout helps organize the space and makes it easier for children to transition between activities without creating chaos.

Photo: Added fun kid-friendly elements, and my personal favorite hack: The Breakfast Bar! ALl from The Lemonade Stand project.

Incorporate built-in storage solutions to keep the playroom tidy and organized. Built-in shelves, cabinets, and benches with storage underneath can seamlessly integrate into the design while providing ample space for toys, books, and games. These storage options can be designed to blend with the overall aesthetic of the room, keeping the space visually appealing while maintaining functionality. Custom built-ins can be tailored to the specific dimensions of the room, maximizing every inch of available space. I recommend incorporating lots of drawers.

Consider durable and safe materials in your design choices. Flooring should be resilient and easy to clean, such as rubber, cork, or high-quality vinyl. These materials can handle spills, heavy foot traffic, and the wear and tear of active play. Washable paints or wall coverings are a great option for the walls. Ensure that all materials used are non-toxic and safe for children. Furniture should be sturdy, with rounded edges to prevent injuries. Safety is paramount, so design elements should prioritize the well-being of the children using the space.

Lighting and acoustics play a significant role in the design of a playroom. Natural light is ideal, so incorporate large windows if possible and use light-filtering shades to control brightness. For artificial lighting, a combination of overhead lights and task lighting in specific zones can create a well-lit environment that is both functional and comfortable. Acoustic treatments, such as sound-absorbing panels or rugs, can help reduce noise levels, creating a calmer and more enjoyable space. Proper lighting and sound management can significantly enhance the overall usability and comfort of the playroom.

Photo: Boy’s room example

Other Tips:

  • Transform the Attic or Basement: One reliable way to give kids a dedicated play area is by converting an attic or basement. These spaces can become exciting play zones or cozy bunk rooms, providing a fun and contained environment for the kids with less noise pollution throughout the house. 

  • Bunk Beds: Installing bunk beds maximizes space and adds a sense of adventure for sleepovers and overnight stays.

  • Modular Furniture: Use modular furniture that can be easily rearranged to accommodate different play activities and needs. This flexibility ensures that the space can evolve as the children grow and their interests change.

  • Protective Measures: Use washable rugs and furniture covers to reduce drama!

Photo: Girl’s room example. Note the slide!

Grammy Camp

These projects are near and dear to my heart. My aunt created a wonderful concept she calls "Grammy Camp." She transformed her attic into a multifunctional space where all the family grandchildren (including my three kids) stay for a week or two each summer with their cousins. It's a bunk room, craft area, and playroom all in one. This setup allows the kids to have their own area to play and sleep without disrupting the rest of the home too badly. It's a brilliant way to create lasting memories while keeping the house from being destroyed.

By incorporating these interior design strategies, you can create spaces where kids can play to their heart's content without disrupting the rest of the house. It's all about balancing fun and functionality, ensuring the kids have a blast while keeping your home organized and harmonious.


Nayeli Almazan