My clients in Durham had the idea of turning their big blah bonus room (you know the kind) into a library and playroom for their seven children.
They wanted the space to function for all – with the kids ranging in ages from 3 – 14 years; and serve many purposes: a library, a classroom, an arts and crafts center, a movie-watching room, for dance parties on the wii, sleepovers, and creative play.
We first devoted time to making the room just the way we wanted- utilizing attic access space for built-in bookshelves, adding much needed lighting, painting the walls (they went from an off- white to a warm taupe color) and installing wallpaper to one long wall to add interest.
The color palette was inspired by a whimsical and colorful linen print from Clarence House in hues of orange, pink, yellow, and green. The selection of the furniture pieces themselves- an orange loveseat (my personal favorite part of the space) a sectional sofa, entertainment unit, play table and chairs (existing), came naturally as they were both fun and functional.
Last week we joined up with a few of the kids for the photo shoot- it was fun to see them enjoying and using the space.
Check back tomorrow as I give my “Top 5 Tips For Designing a Kid Friendly Space.”
Brittany
images by: Design Lines
From there Judy and I determined a color palette of turquoise & fuschia- some of Haley’s favorite colors, but a departure from the seen-before pink and green. The name of the paint color on the bathroom walls and inside the wall panels is ICI:Frankly Scarlet– the perfect hot pink hue.
We designed a paneled wall (above); installing trim moulding and using contrast paint to highlight Haley’s collection of trophies– displayed on mod acrylic shelves. The central panel is a custom memory board created from fuschia linen and multi-colored grosgrain ribbons. She can post photos and notes on her wall.
