Playroom revised

Today was shopping day for the playroom project I have been working on, and like everything usually does, it needed a little tweaking. Not everyone agrees, but for me, the best part of designing is the challenge of working with restrictions. Whether it be budget restrictions or the client's likes and dislikes, I do like a challenge.

The rug that was my inspiration and jumping off point (see post about it here) was rejected and needed to be replaced. And so did the dividing storage cabinet. But I think the new revised plan is wonderful and I thought you might enjoy the seeing the process and the new plan.

{PBTeen}

The new rug is playful and bright and I am happy with it. I liked the idea of the square rug but now that we have changed to this 8'x10' rug, I actually like that it makes the playroom feel larger. And of course, it is my favorite 'go to' color right now anyway. 

Giving the client a visual is an important part of the design process and a quick sketch helps them grasp what I am trying to communicate - especially when all the communication is via email (you know how hard that can be!). Sometimes a quick drawing can be faster than a fancy computer program - that is my rationale anyway. Or maybe I just like to cut and paste ;) 

The storage cabinet I had previously chosen to divide the three spaces was long and low. But when the office area changed and the desks were brought to the opposite wall then I had planned, the low cabinet (at 18" high) felt 'too low' and I decided that a cabinet closer to the desk height would make more sense. I also decided that the 94" long cabinet, although it divided the space beautifully might make the boundaries a little to tight. 

first choice for dividing cabinet

final choice for dividing cabinet

So I will use this Torsby sideboard from Ikea instead. I am placing two of them back to back so that the unfinished back will not show from the office space and they will have office storage as well.  The bean bags are quite large (41") and I think they will help divide the space as well.  

{PBTeen}

I am happy with the way it is turning out even with the changes. And the best part ...

Maskros pendant lamp - Ikea

This will be hanging in the center of the room. So fun! 

{Lonny via here}

Now if I can just be patient while it is all getting installed and my client sends photos (the downside to working long-distance).

Recipe for a playroom

I am working on a children's playroom for one of my out of town clients. In order to save money we are going to use primarily Ikea furniture - which I actually love. I have always thought it would be so much fun and a great challenge to decorate an entire house only using what I can find at Ikea and Target.

{Ikea}

The room I am working with is a very large room (almost 40 feet by 17 feet) that will be divided up into 3 separate areas - a family TV area, an area for a desk and game table and then the kid's play area. The client wanted the areas divided by boundaries but still kept somewhat open. I decided to divide the play area from the adult side of the space by low bookcases placed back to back so that one side will have toys inside and the other, family games and books.

Because I had a clean slate to work with, I had to start somewhere for my inspiration. So after coming up with some basic furniture pieces for storage ...

{Besta storage unit by Ikea}

{Expedit unit by Ikea}

... I started by looking for an area rug. I didn't have to look too far.

{Ikea}

I love the vibrant colors and because the rug is a square, it fits perfectly into my floor plan. The idea is to give the client's grandchildren a place to play that can stay organized and neat. A book corner was also requested.

{Ikea}

I plan to bring in a simple table and chair set that will be colorful and fun and also easy to maintain. We will use beanbags for the kids to lounge around on and read.

{Pottery Barn Kids} {PBTeen}

I love these beanbags from Pottery Barn. They come in a variety of colorful options and can even be monogrammed which is always fun for kids. I will throw in a red bookcase for a little more color.

{Pottery Barn Kids}

I found this cute idea to hang your children's artwork and think it will be the perfect way to add some personalization. The color of these just happen to be exactly right for this room too.

{pinterest}

I will also be using some decals and other fun artwork to make it a happy place to play. I love this stylized tree ...

{Byrdie graphics on Etsy}

These fun leaves ...

{Etsy}

Or maybe some circles. Did you know you can change the colors of the decals to match your decor?

I really like the idea of bringing in a quote or two!

 

{source}

No matter what ends up on the wall ...  

{Ikea}

It needs to bring a smile.