Parents' Guide To Designing A Kid-Proof Space

All study, no play? Kids, just like adults, need ample time to unwind and recharge after a long day in school! Besides the usual bedroom or study area, what better way than to add a little spice (and surprise) with a dedicated play space?

Not sure how to get started? Check out these 4 key steps that'll help you convert any room at home into a fun and safe haven for your tots!

1. Choose The Right Furniture

Interior Designer: Pocket Square

Get These Essential Items...

Now even if you have plenty of space in the designated playroom, be sure not to overcrowd with unnecessary furniture (which may be a safety hazard). Essential items include lockable storage cupboards (for toys), comfy chairs and rounded tables. If you prefer square-shaped furniture, make sure the edges are curved for safety purposes.

Interior Designer: Urban Home

In Kid-Friendly Materials...

It's inevitable - when kids play, they spill! Use washable, stain-resistant or easy to clean seat fabrics like printed cotton, microfiber or denim. It’s also important that some pieces be heavy or grounded so as not to easily topple and cause injury – these include tables, cubbies and other storage.

And Consider A Non-Slip Rug

You’ll likely also benefit from having an area rug for nap time or to play on the floor but do ensure that these are of the non-slip variety. While you’re at it, look for anti-dust mites and allergen-free rugs in polyester or nylon and avoid wool and shag, which trap allergens and mould.

Interior Designer: Latitude Design

Bonus Tip: Short on space? You can form a ‘multipurpose room’ that functions as a bedroom, study room and playroom.
Compartmentalise the space either by physically dividing with partitions or by using various colours to separate the areas.

2. Work The Right Colour Scheme

Interior Designer: Latitude Design

For The Play Area

Stimulate your child's mind (and sight) with high-energy, creative colours like orange and green. Not just on your wallpaper or paint, but also other accents like the fabrics or furniture used.

Interior Designer: Designers' Home

For The Sleeping Area

If the play space is located within the bed room, do demarcate the space and keep stimulation levels low for the bed area. Use darker, more calming neutrals like beiges, soft pinks, lilacs or warm whites.

Interior Designer: Pocket Square

For The Study Area

In the study spot however, think about colours that help concentration and boost brainpower like shades of blue and light yellow.

Likewise, it pays to be prepared. In case of crayon accidents or paint spills, keep your walls washable with the right materials and formulations. For wallpaper; consider embossed, foil or vinyl materials that are super easy to clean and for paint; choose non-toxic, wipe-clean preparations.

3. Keep the Whimsy

Interior Designer: Urban Home

Set An Imaginative Theme

Play is all about imagination, entertainment and excitement, so it makes sense to infuse a sense of quirkiness in the décor. You can use eccentric furniture pieces, unusual colour schemes or patterns, even the setting of the room can play its part.

Unleash Your Creativity With Murals...

A fun way to incorporate imagination and fantasy into a play space is through a mural. This can instantly add playfulness and enthusiasm to any area.

Interior Designer: Sachi Interiors

or Full-Sized Chalkboards

With a smaller room, you can actually use your walls as a creative zone. Wall-sized chalkboards are great for kids to play, flex their artistic muscles and with a bit of non-toxic colourful chalk, they can ‘draw’ out their own space.

4. Don’t Forget the Adults!

Interior Designer: Latitude Design

Playrooms aren’t just for kids; it’s also the space where parents can chill out while enjoying the company of their children. Choose a few of 'big people' pieces such as adult-sized chairs, plush bean bags and sofas so both of you can play together in comfort.

Need help to change a plain space into an amazing play castle for your little ones? Call in the professionals. Drop in a quote request, and we can match you up with 5 interior designers for free, based on your budget and style.

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