Designing a Home with Kids
FINDING THE BALANCE BETWEEN STYLE & FUNCTIONALITY
As a parent, creating a beautiful home that is also functional and practical can feel like a challenge. When you have little ones running around, it's easy to worry about things getting broken, spilled on, or just worn out. But that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style for functionality. In fact, with a little bit of planning and some thoughtful choices, you can have a home that is both stylish and kid-friendly.
One of the keys to making interior design work with kids is to invest in quality pieces that will stand up to wear and tear. Cheap, flimsy furniture or decor may look good initially, but it won't hold up over time. Instead, look for well-made items that are sturdy and durable. This might mean spending a bit more money upfront, but it will save you in the long run. Choose furniture made of high-quality materials, such as solid wood, and opt for stain-resistant fabrics that can be easily cleaned.
Unfortunately, even with the best quality items, accidents will still happen. My advice is to set some ground rules for your kids around things like eating and jumping on the furniture. Talk to your children about what is and isn't allowed, and make sure they understand the importance of taking care of the things in your home. In our house, we have a rule that no food or drinks are allowed on the couch or in certain rooms of the house, and our kids (and guests!) know to take off their shoes when they come inside to help keep carpets and floors clean.
It's important to remember that your home isn't a museum. Kids need to be able to play and be themselves, and that means things will get a messy. But that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style completely. Look for creative ways to incorporate kid-friendly elements into your decor. For example, you might choose a colorful rug that can withstand (and hide) spills, or hang an arrangement of artwork that your children have created themselves.
With a little bit of thought, incorporating the needs of your children into your home's design can be a fun and creative process. Pinterest and interior design blogs are great sources of inspiration for creating great looking, functional spaces that work for the whole family. By being thoughtful in your choices and setting some basic ground rules, you can create a home that is both beautiful and practical. Having kids doesn't mean you have to give up on having a beautiful home!
Images via Pinterest
