“How To Create A Functional Haven: Design Tips For A Comfortable Living Space With Kids”

As a parent of three, creating a relaxing and functional living space can feel like an impossible task.

With toys strewn about, endless noise, and constant activity, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and like your home is anything but a peaceful retreat. However, with a few simple design tips and tricks, you can transform your space into a haven where both you and your children can relax and unwind.

The first step to creating a relaxing living space is to declutter and organize. Invest in storage solutions such as baskets, bins, and shelving units to keep toys, books, and other items neatly stored away. Encourage your children to help with cleanup by making it fun and rewarding.

We like to play the game of “toss the block in the bin” or “whoever picks everything up the quickest wins”; However, I feel they are catching onto the latter. We find that cleaning to music is always more enjoyable, maybe because it dulls the sound of kids arguing.

When selecting furniture for your living space, opt for pieces that are durable and easy to clean. Consider functional, stain-resistant fabrics and materials that can withstand the wear and tear of daily life with kids.

We made the classic mistake of buying a beautiful, expensive couch for our living room. It wasn’t worth it. I am constantly stressing about the kids getting food or marker on it. If I could over I would settle for Costco or Wayfair. Maybe even something with washable cushion covers!

Designate specific areas within your living space for different activities, such as a reading nook, a play area, and a TV zone. This helps to create a sense of order and organization, making it easier for both you and your children to navigate the space.

We find that having a desk in the space is helpful. If they want to color or have a snack they will naturally gravitate to the desk which is helpful when my other child is building a train that manages to take up space on the entire floor.

Add elements to your living space that promote relaxation and calmness, such as soft cushions, cozy blankets, and soothing colors. Consider incorporating natural elements like plants to bring a sense of tranquility to the space.

I love candles and flowers. Although the candles I buy are expensive they seem to last awhile and have that crackle sound which is fun once I realize it’s the candle and not a mouse in a cabinet making that sound.

Make your living space feel like home by incorporating personal touches such as family photos, artwork created by your children, and items that hold sentimental value. This not only adds warmth to the space but also creates a sense of belonging for your family.

Whenever we travel we always try to bring home a piece of art as a keepsake. We try to hang the art in the house and it’s a nice reminder of the adventure (assuming it was a positive one).

Set boundaries within your living space to create a sense of order and to ensure that everyone has their own space. This can be done through the use of room dividers, rugs, or furniture placement.

Establishing boundaries is really important for us. We tried everything from baby gates to lock-proof bins to keep the kids from making a mess in every room of the house. Finally, we decided to give the kids a specific space to do the things they love… pouring out the contents of every bin and then crying when they step on the Legos. Now they can make a mess in their own little space and the knowledge that the mess is confined, makes tolerating the chaos a bit more palatable.

Remember that your living space needs to be flexible to accommodate the changing needs of your family. Consider furniture that can be easily rearranged and storage solutions that can be adapted as your children grow. I would stay away from built in furniture.

We are surprised by how much we dislike our built in entertainment center, which was built to accommodate a conventional TV. We see it as a nuisance and limiting as to where we can place furniture, etc.

With three kids, messes quickly accumulate and seem to never end. Establishing a regular cleaning routine can help keep your space livable and easier to manage. Consider setting aside a few minutes each day for quick cleanups and designate specific times for more thorough cleaning sessions.

Be honest with your goals. A goal may be to pick up the toys on the floor before bed.

Choose a color palette for your living space that promotes relaxation and calmness. Soft, neutral tones such as beige, gray, or pastels can create a soothing atmosphere, while pops of color can add interest and vibrancy.

We opted for SW Neutral Ground with an accent wall in SW Evergreen Fog. We love this combo. The earthy vibes are grounding when the kids are throwing tantrums and I have to find my zen.

Maximize space in your living area by incorporating multi-functional furniture pieces. For example, a storage ottoman can serve as both a seating area and a place to store toys, blankets, or books.

By following these tips, you can create a relaxing and functional living space that works for your entire family. With a little bit of creativity and planning, you can transform your home into a haven where you can all unwind and enjoy each other’s company.

“Life is a series of seasons, and what works in one season may not work in the next. What season are you in right now? What habits does that season require?” – James Clear