7 Simple Tips for Designing a Beautiful, Family-Friendly Home
Our team always designs spaces with durability in mind. If our clients don't have kids, then they tend to have pets. If their kids are grown, then they tend to have grandkids. Spaces should be enjoyed and lived in. Who wants a home that feels like a museum? Most of us don’t.
Quality furniture pieces with lasting frames allow you to be at ease if they are being jumped on. Durable fabrics, vinyls, or leathers will stand up to both kids and pets.
Here are 7 simple tips for creating a space that is both stylish and durable…
Tip 1: Find Sturdy Fabrics that will Stand the Test of Time
We recommend materials that stand up to heavy use in high-traffic areas. Some of the products we use are Sunbrella (outdoor fabric), Crypton, leather, and at times, indoor/outdoor rugs.
Tip 2: Life-Proof the Space with Colors, Patterns, & Textures
Strategically placed patterns, colors, and textures help with hiding stains and dirt.
Tip 3: Embrace Intentionally Weathered Furnishings
Organic materials, such as reclaimed wood, still remain popular. Using pieces in high traffic areas that already have a distressed look will keep the piece from looking worn over the years.
Tip 4: Choose Finishes & Furnishings that Simplify Clean-Up
We typically specify paint finishes in an eggshell or washable matte for easy touch up. If we know we are working with clients who have an extremely active household, we will recommend that an additional fabric treatment be applied by a professional, shortly after the furnishings have been installed.
Tip 5: Use Rugs to Protect Floors and Preserve Sanity
We love to install rugs under dining tables, in kitchens, or entry ways…but keep in mind the pattern and color in these areas. Don't underestimate the power of pattern to hide crumbs.
Tip 6: Invest in Quality Craftsmanship that will Last
The beauty of working with a designer, especially a green designated designer (like us), is that we work with mostly American-made, mom-and-pop manufacturers to the trade only. This means they specialize in working with a designer's clientele. After all, if you are going to invest in a great design, we want to assure your pieces will last.
Tip 7: Encourage Kids to Play a Part in Creating the Home
We have found that if you involve the kids in the design process by showing them selections and getting them excited about their home, they will step up to the plate and help take care of the furnishings. Kids are often as excited as their parents.
A kid-friendly home can still be as creative, elegant, or chic as the adults want it to be. Your designer will work with you to find the best balance of aesthetic and function for your family.
Need help designing a family-friendly space that you love and keeps the kids happy? Let's talk!
Warmly,
Robin