In partnership withThe Home Depot

5 Tips for Creating a Cute, Cozy, Kid-Friendly Play Area

published Jun 8, 2023
Post Image
Credit: Pablo Enriquez

If you have little ones in your house, you know that — while they’re adorable — they’re not always the neatest. Between crayon marks on walls and toys all over the carpet, it’s tough to hit the right balance between wanting your kids to have fun and wanting your house to look its best. But it’s possible!

Credit: Pablo Enriquez

Creating a dedicated play area in your living room can be a great way to corral the fun without compromising your design style. That’s what Samantha recently did in the Los Angeles home she shares with her husband and two children. She used online-only, reasonably priced, on-trend furniture and home decor from The Home Depot to carve out a child-friendly zone in a room that also hosts friends, fosters family time, and so much more. Here’s how she did it.

Credit: Photo: Christopher Broe; Props: Erik Staalberg

1. Take Advantage of Natural Light

Samantha set up the play area by a large window so that the kids could play in the sun, even inside. She also used decorative tricks like strategically placed wall mirrors to amp up the brightness. “They love seeing themselves in all the mirrors!” she says.

Credit: Photo: Christopher Broe; Props: Erik Staalberg

2. Upgrade Your Organizational Game

In a space where everything is in full view, aesthetically pleasing storage makes a huge difference. Samantha used an assortment of woven baskets for toys as well as living room essentials like throw blankets. They’re open, so little hands can reach inside easily, and the poms-poms add a playful touch!

Credit: Photo: Christopher Broe; Props: Erik Staalberg

3. Embrace Stealth Storage

Buffets are one of our favorite pieces of furniture: They’re usually associated with dining rooms but versatile enough for any space, and when it comes to storage, they mean business. Samantha chose a farmhouse-style console (it’s actually a TV stand!) to keep books, puzzles, and other toys organized and out of sight, but still within reach.

Credit: Photo: Christopher Broe; Props: Erik Staalberg

4. Make Your Area Rug Extra Cozy

Since so much playing happens directly on the floor, make sure yours is as soft as possible. Samantha laid down this fluffy sheepskin rug for maximum comfort during playtime. Keep cushy throw pillows nearby, too.

Credit: Photo: Christopher Broe; Props: Erik Staalberg

5. Add a Rocking Chair for Yourself

Yes to more comfortable quality time! Samantha completed the play area with a modern twist on a rocking chair that looks sophisticated and helps her get in on the family fun. Snuggle in for rainy day story time or rock the baby while your older kids play — you’ll be glad you have a seat close to the action. Now, Samantha says, “The kids love the whole space! The play nook is super cozy and fun.”

Credit: Photo: Christopher Broe; Props: Erik Staalberg