As a parent, having an organized, aesthetically pleasing playroom for your kids is important. A well-designed playroom not only looks nice, but also encourages creativity, development, and independent play. Here are some tips to help you design a playroom your kids will love spending time in.
Declutter and Organize
The first step to creating a nice looking playroom is to declutter and get organized. Go through all the toys, books, art supplies, and other items and sort them into categories. Get rid of anything that is broken, missing pieces, or that your kids have outgrown. For the items you are keeping, invest in labeled bins, baskets, shelves, and storage containers to give everything a designated spot.
Store toys neatly on open shelving so kids can easily access them. Consider designating different zones or areas for different types of toys and activities. For example, have a reading nook with a rug and bookshelves, an art center, and an area for building/construction toys. Rotating toys helps keep the playroom from becoming overwhelming.
Add Child-Friendly Furniture
Outfit the playroom with furniture suitable for children. Look for storage units like a toy box, cubbies, or storage ottomans that double as seating. A pint-sized table and chairs give kids a place to play games, build Lego sets, or do crafts. Sturdy bookcases both store and display books attractively. You can also add kid-sized versions of grown-up furniture like a play kitchen, easel, workbench, or pretend play accessories.
Incorporate Color
Color has a huge impact on the overall look and feel of a playroom. Since this is a child’s space, embrace bright, fun colors like red, yellow, green and blue. Paint the walls with colorful polka dots, stripes, or a whimsical mural. Use colorful area rugs to define spaces. The bedding, pillows, curtains, and other fabrics you choose also add color to the room.
You don’t have to go overboard on color. Aim for a balanced look by selecting 2-3 colors and repeating them throughout the room. For example, pick a main wall color, a color for accents like curtains or pillows, and another for furniture and storage items. This cohesive color scheme helps the playroom look pulled together.
Add Whimsy with Decor
Incorporating playful, youthful decor is key to making a playroom look nice. Fun wall decor like decals, colorful prints, or a chalkboard wall jazz up plain walls. Hang mobiles or twinkly string lights from the ceiling. Set out collectible figurines or display kids’ rotating art projects. Use pretty storage bins and baskets for a pop of color.
Keep decor comfortable and safe for kids. Avoid fragile decor and position wall hangings at child height. Add soft elements like beanbag chairs, plush rugs, and stuffed animals. Use sturdy, low shelves and hooks so children can easily access their toys, books, and more.
Include Plenty of Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for both aesthetics and function. Make sure the playroom includes good overhead lighting so kids can easily see their toys and play areas. Supplement with table lamps, string lights or floor lamps. Position lighting near seating areas, craft zones, and toy storage. Switch out harsh bulbs for more soothing options like smart LEDs that change color.
If possible, add windows to naturally brighten the space. Hang lightweight curtains or shades to filter sunlight. Make sure to have switches accessible for kids to control their own room lighting.
Incorporate Storage
No playroom looks nice when it’s overflowing with clutter. Work storage into the design both functionally and aesthetically. Use concealed spots like under bed storage, a toy chest bench, or cabinets for messier items. Display books or favorite toys on open shelving. Opt for storage furniture that complements the design, like a stylish bookcase or cubbies that double as a room divider.
Baskets and bins are go-to storage solutions for playrooms. Label them clearly so kids can organize their own toys. When not in use, they tuck neatly onto shelves. A coat rack, hooks, and cubbies also give everything a designated home.
Add Finishing Touches
Finally, pull the playroom together with fun finishing touches. Window treatments like cheerful curtains or roman blinds add color and style. Rugs in different zones help define areas while adding comfort and safety. Add lamps or adjustable lighting for a warm glow.
Set out a couple decorative items like framed art, flowering plants or a bowl of seashells collected from the beach. Have a bulletin board or chalkboard for displaying art and communicating with kids. Finish off with cute throw pillows, a padded mat, and other accents to create a play space kids will be eager to spend time in.
Safety First
While aesthetics are important, safety should always be the number one priority in a child’s playroom. Look for toys, furniture, decor and storage items made from non-toxic materials. Use safety straps, anchors and edge guards where needed. Ensure clothing storage units cannot tip over onto little fingers.
Keep valuables, delicate items, weapons, chemicals, medications, or other hazards locked up and out of reach. Install safety devices on doors, windows and blind cords. Use cushioned flooring and round out sharp corners. Establish rules for safe, independent play based on your child’s age and developmental stage.
Maintenance
Kids will be kids, which means maintaining a nice looking playroom takes effort. Stay on top of clutter by having kids put toys away when done. Schedule regular deep cleaning sessions to tidy shelves, wipe surfaces, and vacuum. Rotate toys to keep the selection fresh. Freshen up paint or add new decor items periodically.
Engage kids in organizing and decorating their play space. Add labeled bins or shelves they can reach. Include their artwork, writing and other creations in the room decor. Establish clear rules and expectations for taking care of the playroom themselves.
Kid-Friendly Ideas
For a playroom kids will love, include ideas specifically suited for them. Paint a chalkboard wall for drawing, writing messages, or keeping an activity calendar. Decorate with glow-in-the-dark stars or removable wall decals. Display favorite books or toys within reach on open shelving. Add items that encourage imagination like play tents or dress-up clothes.
Incorporate toys and activities you want to encourage like art supplies, building toys, or puzzles. A pretend play area with kid-sized furniture and accessories inspires creative play. Add cushy beanbag chairs or oversized floor pillows for cozy reading spots. Use storage bins and baskets painted in fun colors.
On a Budget
Creating a nice playroom doesn’t have to be expensive. Use an existing room if possible rather than renovating unused space. Choose budget-friendly paint colors and flooring like laminate. Find toy storage and organization solutions at dollar stores. Prioritize key pieces like shelving and seating.
Shop sales, thrift stores and online marketplaces for deals on furniture and decor. Repurpose pieces you already own. Display inexpensive artwork and your child’s creations. Borrow toys and books from friends, family or toy lending libraries to refresh selections.
Do projects in stages as your budget allows. Focus first on organization and storage, then add accent decor over time. Enlist kids’ help with DIY projects like an art gallery wall or making sensory bins. Use creativity and cost-effective finds to design a playroom on a budget.
Playroom Layout Ideas
| Layout | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open Layout | All toys and furniture accessible. Defined play zones. | Promotes independent play. Easy to rearrange. | Can look cluttered. Noise travels. |
| Closed Layout | Separate room with door. Toys concealed in storage. | Noise contained. Hidden mess. | Less child accessibility. Smaller feel. |
| Combined Layout | Mix of open shelves and closed storage. | Balance of structure and accessibility. | Finding right combo challenging. |
Conclusion
Creating a playroom kids enjoy that still looks nice is all about finding the right balance. Organize toys and declutter, then add kid-friendly furniture, plenty of storage, and fun decor. Include bright colors, lighting, and whimsical accents suited to a child’s interests. Maintain through regular tidying and rotating toys. Focus on safety first, then add style elements and personalized touches to design a playroom your kids will love.
